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Temporary Cook Jobs in Lansing, MI (NOW HIRING)

Brookdale Senior Living, Inc.

Cook

Haslett, MI · On-site

$12 - $16.25/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.

Compass Group

CASHIER/FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Portland, MI · On-site

$11.50 - $14/hr

... cooks if food temperatures are not within acceptable limits. * Serves hot and cold items to ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

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Temporary Cook information

See Lansing, MI salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do temporary cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary cook in Lansing, MI is $16.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.65 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary cook?

Temporary cooks are culinary professionals hired for a limited period to prepare and cook food in a variety of settings, such as restaurants, catering events, hotels, or institutional kitchens. They often fill in during staff shortages, busy seasons, or special events. Temporary cooks may be employed through staffing agencies or directly by employers, and their assignments can range from a single shift to several weeks. They are expected to adapt quickly to different kitchen environments and follow the specific recipes, safety, and hygiene standards of each workplace.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Cook, you need strong food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety, and experience with various cooking techniques, often supported by a food handler’s certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale systems, and food storage protocols is typically required. Adaptability, time management, and teamwork are vital soft skills for success in fast-paced, changing environments. These competencies ensure efficient service, food quality, and seamless integration into different kitchen teams.

What is the difference between Temporary Cook vs Full-Time Cook?

AspectTemporary CookFull-Time Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredSame as temporary; often requires additional experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentShort-term assignments in various settings like events, catering, or seasonal kitchensLong-term employment in restaurants, hotels, or institutional kitchens
Employment DurationTemporary, project-based, or seasonalPermanent, ongoing employment
Employer UsageEvent companies, catering services, temp agenciesRestaurants, hotels, hospitals, schools

Temporary Cooks typically work on short-term or seasonal projects, often through agencies or for specific events, while Full-Time Cooks are employed permanently in a consistent work environment. Both roles require similar credentials and certifications, but their employment terms and work settings differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Lansing, MI?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Lansing, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Temporary Cook jobs in Lansing, MI?

For Temporary Cook jobs in Lansing, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Temporary Cook jobs in Lansing, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Temporary Cook jobs in Lansing, MI are:

Temporary Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Cook job openings in Lansing, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,816 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Cook/ Range- Kellogg Center (Non-Student)

Michigan State University - Residential Hospitality Services

East Lansing, MI • On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Temporary

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
RHS Job Title
Cook/ Range- Kellogg Center (Non-Student)
Job Description
Cook for the Spartan football team! This position will predominately cook for the MSU football team, which is a vital part of the program's support staff fueling elite athletes.
This position reports to the Cooks, who collaborate with strength coaches and dietitians to fuel championship performances.
This position is a 9-month temp position 40 hours a week with the possibility of renewal depending on operational needs.
To grill, broil, fry, or otherwise prepare and assist in the serving of cooked-to-order and individual entrée items for the State Room and room service and to assist other cooks in the preparation and serving of other food items at Breslin Center and Kellogg Center.
This position will predominately serve as a cook for the MSU football team.
Has, or is willing to obtain, Chauffer's license for driving box truck.
This position is a 9-month temp position 40 hours a week with possibility of renewal depending on operational needs.
  • Fabricate and portion meats and seafood.
  • Grill, broil, fry, and prepare cooked-to-order items such as steaks, chops, fish, egg, bacon, sausage, and other individual entrees and accompaniments.
  • Prepare simultaneously food items requiring different preparation times and cooking techniques.
  • Prepare stocks, sauces and soups.
  • Assist other cooks in the preparation and serving of food items.
  • Develop and prepare specials and soups of the day.
  • Taste-test food items.
  • Assist supervisors with the elimination of problems related to menu, cooking production, safety, sanitation, and the operation of equipment.
  • Consult other cooks to determine time, place, and sequence of operations to ensure that a variety of food items having different preparation times will be available throughout serving hours.
  • Set up equipment such as bain-marie and steam table and arrange work and serving areas.
  • Plate food items from steam table, grill, bain-marie, fryer, broiler, or serving counters.
  • Obtain necessary ingredients and equipment for the preparation of assigned food items.
  • Operate, clean, and maintain food preparation, cooking, and serving equipment such as grills, bain-marie, steam tables, and slicers.
  • Substitute for other cooks during absences due to scheduled days off, vacation, personal leave, and illness.
  • Store and chill all food items in accordance with University, Federal and State Health Department guidelines.

All positions in SLE are designated as critical status. In the event of a university closure, modification, or suspension of operations due to snow or other emergency condition, you will be expected to make all reasonable attempts to report to work as scheduled for the duration of the closure/suspension. If you have an approved remote work agreement to work a portion of your normally scheduled work hours remotely, you may be called upon to work on-site to serve the MSU community.
Required Qualifications
  • Two years satisfactory cooking experience in an a la carte restaurant or an equivalent combination of technical training and experience is necessary.
  • Working knowledge of cooking methods, processes, and materials is necessary.
  • Ability to follow prescribed recipes is necessary.
  • Willingness to work a flexible shift is necessary.
  • Standards of personal hygiene consistent with sanitation rules and regulations is necessary.
  • Occasional lifting of 26 to 75 pounds is required.

Preferred Qualifications
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Physical Demands
  • Occasional lifting of 26 to 75 pounds is required.

Work Hours
5am-1:30pm, mainly Monday-Friday with some weekends as needed
Work Location
Kellogg Center (Loc)
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
20162049P
Open Date
08/07/2026
Close Date
08/19/2026
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions

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