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Temporary Cooking Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Temporary Cook

Big Rapids, MI · On-site

$18.69/hr

Temporary Cook Job no: 498108 Work type: Staff Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307 Categories: Staff Position Title: Temporary Cook Location: Big Rapids (Main Campus) Department: 51804 - The Rock Cafe ...

Temporary Cook

Big Rapids, MI · On-site

$18.69/hr

Temporary Cook Apply now Job no: 498108 Work type: Staff Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307 Categories: Staff Position Title: Temporary Cook Location: Big Rapids (Main Campus) Department: 51804 - The ...

Cook (Temporary)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

The Temporary Cook plays an integral role in the program by working both independently and collaboratively within a dynamic, team-oriented kitchen environment. Based primarily at North County ...

Temporary Cook

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $19/hr

Temporary Cook Posting #: 5485 Position Status: Part-time temporary Location: San Diego Position ... Various cooking and kitchen equipment (knives, ovens, slicers, carts, etc.). * Cleaning equipment.

Cook (Temporary)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$24.02 - $25.66/hr

The Temporary Cook plays an integral role in the program by working both independently and collaboratively within a dynamic, team-oriented kitchen environment. Based primarily at North County ...

Temporary Cook

San Diego, CA

$14.75 - $20/hr

Temporary Cook Apply now Posting #: 5485 Position Status: Part-time temporary Location: San Diego ... Various cooking and kitchen equipment (knives, ovens, slicers, carts, etc.). * Cleaning equipment.

Temporary Cook

Albany, OR · On-site

$3.7K - $5.1K/wk

Temporary Cook OREGON YOUTH AUTHORITY Temp Cook Albany, Oregon - Oak Creek YOUTH CORRECTIONAL ... Woks independently while cooking, preparing and coordinating nutritious and appealing meals form ...

... basic cooking principals and techniques, have a firm understanding of all basic food safety ... This is a temporary position with SpaceX, for the length of time as stated, and is subject to ...

Part-Time Temporary Cook

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

... Temporary Cook to join our Convent community for a 90-day assignment , with the possibility of ... This is more than a cooking position-it's an opportunity to serve in a peaceful, faith-centered ...

Cook C - Temporary

Berlin, VT · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Overview The Vermont Psychiatric Care Hospital (VPCH) is seeking a Temporary Cook C to work at ... in volume cooking. OR High School diploma or equivalent AND completion of a high school level ...

This position is responsible for full-scope, hands on production cooking in the Culinary Services Department. The temporary assignment is anticipated to last approximately 6-8 weeks and has the ...

This position is responsible for full-scope, hands on production cooking in the Culinary Services Department. The temporary assignment is anticipated to last approximately 6-8 weeks and has the ...

This position is responsible for full-scope, hands on production cooking in the Culinary Services Department. The temporary assignment is anticipated to last approximately 6-8 weeks and has the ...

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Temporary Cooking information

See salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do temporary cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary cooking in the United States is $16.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary cook?

A temporary cooking job involves working as a cook or chef for a limited period, often to fill short-term staffing needs at restaurants, catering companies, events, or seasonal venues. These positions can range from a few days to several months and may involve tasks such as food preparation, cooking, serving, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. Temporary cooks are often hired during busy periods, staff absences, or for special events, providing flexibility for both employers and employees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary cook?

To thrive as a Temporary Cook, you need solid culinary skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment, often supported by a food handler’s certificate. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and point-of-sale systems is typically necessary. Strong time management, adaptability, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in ever-changing settings. These competencies ensure consistent food quality, efficient service, and smooth integration into diverse kitchen teams.

What are some common challenges faced by temporary cooks, and how can they adapt quickly to new kitchen environments?

Temporary cooks often face the challenge of adapting to unfamiliar kitchens, equipment, and team dynamics with little onboarding time. To succeed, it’s important to ask clear questions about kitchen protocols, observe how regular staff operate, and stay organized with prep and cleanup. Flexibility, strong communication, and a positive attitude can help temporary cooks integrate smoothly and contribute effectively, even in fast-paced or high-pressure settings.

What is the difference between Temporary Cooking vs Line Cook?

AspectTemporary CookingLine Cook
CredentialsMay require basic food safety certificationTypically requires culinary training or experience
Work EnvironmentTemporary kitchens, events, or short-term assignmentsConsistent kitchen environment, restaurant or food service
Employer & IndustryEvent companies, catering, temp agenciesRestaurants, hotels, food establishments
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for short-term cooking jobsSeeking ongoing kitchen roles

Temporary Cooking involves short-term, often event-based or contract-based cooking roles, while a Line Cook is a permanent or long-term position within a restaurant kitchen. Both roles require basic food safety knowledge, but Line Cooks typically need more culinary experience. Temporary Cooking offers flexibility and variety, whereas Line Cooks focus on consistent kitchen operations.

Can I get a temporary cooking job with no experience?

Temporary cooking jobs often do not require prior experience, as employers may provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as the ability to follow instructions, work in a fast-paced environment, and maintain cleanliness are helpful. Certifications like food safety training can improve chances but are not always mandatory for entry-level positions.

How to become a temporary cooking?

To become a temporary cook, you typically need basic cooking skills, relevant experience, and sometimes a food handler's or sanitation certification. Many temporary cooking jobs require flexibility in scheduling and the ability to work in fast-paced environments. Applying through staffing agencies or directly to food service establishments is common.

What cities are hiring for Temporary Cooking jobs?

Cities with the most Temporary Cooking job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs?

The most popular types of Cooking jobs are:

What states have the most Temporary Cooking jobs?

States with the most job openings for Temporary Cooking jobs include:

Infographic showing various Temporary Cooking job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,984 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

$18.69/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Temporary

Medical, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Ferris State University rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

580th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Temporary Cook
Job no: 498108
Work type: Staff
Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307
Categories: Staff
Position Title: Temporary Cook
Location: Big Rapids (Main Campus)
Department:
51804 - The Rock Cafe
Advertised Salary: $18.69. Hourly rate pursuant to the FSU and AFSCME/AFL-CIO Agreement.
Benefits:
Comprehensive benefit package (Health care, vacation, etc.). Please see the following link for a list of benefits offered with this position.
AFSCME Benefits
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Temporary/Continuing: Temporary
Part-Time/Full-Time: Full-Time
Union Group: Custodial, Maintenance, Dining, Skilled Trade (AFSCME Local 1609)
Term of Position: 12 Month
At Will/Just Cause: Just Cause
Summary of Position: A Temporary Cook position is available with Dining Services at The Rock Cafe. The normal working hours are 6:00 am to 2:30 pm Sunday through Thursday. Days off are Friday and Saturday. The start date for this temporary position will be August 23, 2026. The exact duration of this temporary position is undetermined at this time, but it will not exceed one year. The employee may be required to work other times, including days/evenings, and/or weekends. If required by job duties, the employee must be able to fulfill the University's requirements concerning the issuance of University keys. Personnel who possess the special qualifications and training necessary for this position may apply. Provide food services support by preparing and serving food, waiting on customers, and maintaining the assigned area.
Position Type: Staff
Required Education: High school diploma or GED equivalency.
Required Work Experience: One year full-time equivalent work experience in food preparation in an institutional facility, or two years full-time equivalent experience in commercial food preparation in lieu of institutional experience.
Required Licenses and Certifications:
Physical Demands:
  • Bending
  • Carrying
  • Moving
  • Reaching
  • Twisting
  • Lifting
  • Pulling/Pushing
  • Repetitive movement
  • Standing

Additional Education/Experiences to be Considered:
Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Cook and handle food according to safe food-handling and sanitation requirements, following departmental sanitation policies.
Interact with customers and staff in a polite, friendly, and courteous manner.
Maintain equipment, pots, pans, utensils, and work areas in a clean, orderly, and sanitary condition, following departmental sanitation policies.
Minimize food waste.
Obtain foods from storage areas.
Operate various kitchen equipment and/or serving and assure continued food availability.
Perform the work of other Dining Service classifications when assigned.
Prepare food for serving and assure continued food availability.
Prepare foods using recipes generated from the computerized menu management system.
Respond to special dietary requests.
Set up and maintain food preparation, food service, and display areas in an attractive and sanitary manner.
Train and direct others in the performance of the characteristic duties.
Other duties may be assigned.
Perform mathematical computations with a high degree of accuracy.
Adapt and follow standard recipes.
Assure final product quality.
Maintain safety and health standards in all duties and responsibilities.
Report to the immediate supervisor.
Train and direct the work of student employees in performing the characteristic duties.
Be familiar with, know how to use, and be able to teach others how to use kitchen equipment.
Work independently and exercise good judgment.
Carries out responsibilities in accordance with university policies and applicable laws.
Cultivates an environment of belonging that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences, allowing students, faculty, and staff to thrive authentically.
Support, promote, and develop university student enrollment and retention initiatives.
Any other duties assigned within the position classification area.
Marginal Duties/Responsibilities: Remove trash, break down cardboard boxes, and assist in the University recycling efforts.
Skills and Abilities: Recognize volatile situations and communicate effectively, politely, and courteously.
Ability to interact with the public in a friendly, polite, and courteous manner.
Be familiar with seasoning requirements and kitchen equipment.
Cook a variety of foods in large and small quantities.
Follow safety and sanitation standards and practices.
Keep accurate records.
Read, understand, and follow recipes, directions, safety labels, equipment operations manuals, etc.
Work harmoniously with others in varying temperatures, confined spaces, noisy environments, and stressful situations and workloads.
Demonstrated successful experience working directly with people from diverse backgrounds, including cultural, educational, socioeconomic, and life experiences.
Required Documents:
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume

Optional Documents:
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Initial Application Review Date:
August 31, 2026
Open Until Position is Filled?: Yes
Posting Close Date:
EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence. Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University's Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.
Click here to learn more about working at FSU and KCAD.
Advertised: 14 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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