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Temp Cook Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Do you enjoy cooking and being creative in the kitchen? Do you like working with a team in a high ... Ensures all temp logs and waste logs are maintained daily * Directs personnel assisting in ...

Cook

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $18.71/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook

Columbia, TN · On-site

$14.53 - $18.17/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$15.34 - $19.18/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook

Franklin, TN · On-site

$16.15 - $20.19/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook

Maryville, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.17/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook PRN

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$14.53 - $18.17/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Line Cook

Germantown, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

LINE COOK Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill is an upscale steakhouse, specializing in hand-cut ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

Line Cook

Franklin, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

LINE COOK Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill is an upscale steakhouse, specializing in hand-cut ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

Line Cook

Memphis, TN

$14 - $17.75/hr

LINE COOK J. Alexander's Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant, known for its daily ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

Line Cook

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

LINE COOK J. Alexander's Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant, known for its daily ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

Line Cook

Franklin, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

LINE COOK Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill is an upscale steakhouse, specializing in hand-cut ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

Line Cook

Franklin, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

LINE COOK J. Alexander's Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant, known for its daily ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

Line Cook

Franklin, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

LINE COOK Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill is an upscale steakhouse, specializing in hand-cut ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

Line Cook

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

LINE COOK J. Alexander's Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant, known for its daily ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

Line Cook

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

LINE COOK J. Alexander's Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant, known for its daily ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

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Temp Cook information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do temp cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for temp cook in Tennessee is $14.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.31 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are temp cooks?

Temp cooks are culinary professionals who work on a temporary basis, often filling in for permanent staff at restaurants, catering companies, hotels, or other food service establishments. They may be hired through staffing agencies or directly by businesses to cover short-term needs such as staff shortages, special events, or busy seasons. Temp cooks are expected to quickly adapt to different kitchens, follow recipes and safety standards, and maintain high food quality. Their work can vary from basic food prep to full meal preparation, depending on the assignment. This role offers flexibility and exposure to different culinary environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temp Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temp Cook, you need solid culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and prior kitchen experience, often supported by a food handler certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and basic inventory management are commonly required. Strong time management, adaptability, and effective communication help temp cooks excel in varied, fast-paced environments. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and seamless integration into different teams and settings.

How do I become a cook with no experience?

To become a temp cook with no experience, start by gaining basic cooking skills through online tutorials or cooking classes. Look for entry-level kitchen positions that offer on-the-job training and be willing to work flexible hours to build your experience and skills in a professional environment.

What is the difference between Temp Cook vs Part-Time Cook?

AspectTemp CookPart-Time Cook
CredentialsFood Handler’s Permit, basic culinary skillsFood Handler’s Permit, basic culinary skills
Work EnvironmentTemporary assignments, varied locationsConsistent schedule, same location
Employment TypeShort-term, project-basedRegular, scheduled hours
Industry UsageEvent catering, seasonal workRestaurants, cafes, catering

Temp Cooks typically work on short-term assignments at various locations, often for events or seasonal needs, requiring similar credentials as part-time cooks. Part-Time Cooks have a regular schedule at a specific establishment, providing consistent service. Both roles require basic culinary skills and food safety certifications, but differ mainly in employment duration and work setting.

What are some common challenges Temp Cooks face when adapting to new kitchens and teams?

Temp Cooks often work in unfamiliar kitchens with varying equipment, menus, and workflows, which can make it challenging to quickly integrate and perform efficiently. They must be able to learn new procedures rapidly, adapt to different team dynamics, and maintain high standards under time constraints. Strong communication skills and flexibility are essential, as Temp Cooks regularly collaborate with permanent staff and must uphold consistency in food quality despite changing environments.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include specialized roles such as high-level consultants, surgeons, or executive contractors, often requiring advanced skills, certifications, or significant experience. These positions are usually project-based, freelance, or involve high-demand expertise in fields like finance, law, or technology.

Can I get paid to cook at home?

Temp cooks are typically employed by restaurants, catering services, or food establishments and are paid for working on-site. Cooking at home for personal use is unpaid, but some food bloggers or content creators may earn income through online platforms by sharing recipes and cooking videos. Generally, paid cooking jobs require working in a professional environment with specific schedules and skills.

What is the highest paying job for a cook?

Executive chefs and head cooks typically earn the highest salaries among cooking roles, especially in fine dining restaurants, hotels, or private clubs. Salaries can exceed $70,000 annually, with additional earnings possible through bonuses, profit sharing, and extensive experience or specialized skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Tennessee are:
Infographic showing various Temp Cook job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $29,659 per year, or $14.3 per hour.

$16 - $18/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description


Do you enjoy cooking and being creative in the kitchen? Do you like working with a team in a high paced environment? We are hiring for a hotel kitchen Cook!


What We Offer:

  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Employee discounts
  • Competitive pay
  • Daily Pay
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Comprehensive benefits for you and your family including (medical, vision, dental, 401k, Profit Sharing)
  • Paid vacation

SUMMARY

Prepares food orders and coordinates kitchen activities by performing the following duties.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Cooks or otherwise prepares food according to recipe
  • Cooks food in quantities according to menu and number of persons to be served.
  • Inventories food, supplies and equipment weekly
  • Orders kitchen supplies as needed
  • Ensures all temp logs and waste logs are maintained daily
  • Directs personnel assisting in preparation and serving of meals
  • Receives, dates, and examines foodstuffs and supplies to ensure quality and quantity meet established standards and specifications
  • Ensures kitchen is clean and tidy
  • Stocks kitchen at end of each shift
  • All other duties as assigned


What we are looking for:

  • 0 – 1+ year of customer service experience
  • 0 – 1+ year of similar Cooking experience
  • Passionate about hospitality and cooking
  • Ability to work in a fast paced environment
  • Open Availability
  • Eligible to obtain alcohol serving certification
  • High School degree or better