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Temporary Cook Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Line Cook

Annapolis, MD

$15.50 - $19.50/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 ...

J Alexander's

Line Cook

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/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 ...

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Line Cook

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/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 ...

Compass Group

COOK

Washington, DC · On-site

$22.30/hr

We are hiring immediately for a COOK (FULL TIME) position. * Address : District House at GWU 1918 F ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Compass Group

COOK

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$20.18/hr

Prior cooking experience is required. * Perks: PTO, free meals, and free uniforms! * Pay Range: $18 ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsCook JobsTemporary Cook JobsTemporary Cook Jobs in Washington, DC

Temporary Cook information

See Washington, DC salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do temporary cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary cook in Washington, DC is $18.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Temporary Cook jobs in Washington, DC? For Temporary Cook jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Cook jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Cook jobs in Washington, DC are:
Temporary Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Cook job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,761 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Kitchen Cooks/ Cocineros

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Laurel, MD • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

UNETE A NUESTRO EQUIPO DE CATERING!

Estamos emocionados de ofrecerte una excelente oportunidad laboral. Actualmente buscamos personal para apoyar en el departamento de Catering para un proyecto temporal que comenzara lo antes posible en College Park, MD 20740.

Estamos buscando personas con experiencia en cocina y preparacion de alimentos.

Requisitos deseados:

  • Experiencia en corte de carne y vegetales
  • Conocimiento en trabajo de preparacion (prep work)
  • Experiencia cocinando en la parrilla
  • Capacidad para cocinar en grandes cantidades
  • Disponibilidad para trabajar de lunes a domingo
  • Disponibilidad para turnos matutinos, vespertinos o nocturnos
  • Experiencia previa en restaurantes
  • Certificaciones de seguridad alimentaria como Serve Safe (deseable)



JOIN OUR CATERING TEAM!

We are excited to offer you a great job opportunity. We are currently seeking staff to support our Catering department for a temporary project starting as soon as possible in College Park, MD 20740.

We are looking for individuals with experience in cooking and food preparation.

Desired qualifications:

  • Experience cutting meat and vegetables
  • Knowledge of prep work
  • Experience cooking on the grill
  • Ability to cook in large quantities
  • Availability to work Monday through Sunday
  • Availability for morning, afternoon, or night shifts
  • Previous restaurant experience (please specify restaurant name, years of experience, and position)
  • Food safety certifications such as Serve Safe (preferred)



Apply