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Temporary Cooking Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.75/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.75/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.75/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Newton, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $18.50/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $18.25/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Mason City, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Ankeny, IA

$13.50 - $18.75/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $18.25/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.75/hr

Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items ...

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Temporary Cooking information

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.

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 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 is a temporary cooking job?

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 most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Temporary Cooking jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Temporary Cooking job openings:
Temporary Cooking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Cooking job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, and 52% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Assistant Cook

Assistant Cook

The Salvation Army Central Territory

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$12/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Salvation Army rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 342 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

469th of 676 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

***TEMPORARY Part- Time Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:00 A.M.- 2:00 P.M., Pay Rate: $12.00 Per Hour***
The Salvation Army Mission: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
Summary/Primary Purpose: To assist the cook in the preparation of wholesome, nutritious meals primarily using donated food items and stock from the kitchen pantry and freezers. Also, to assist in dishing up and serving these meals to the community.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assist with daily food preparation and serving in a manner consistent with Health Department food preparation, sanitation, and safety standards. Take leadership when Food Program Manager is away.
  • Maintain a sanitary working environment in all areas, including: Kitchen, Dining Room, Storage Rooms, walk-in/reach-in refrigerators and freezers.
  • Maintain proper food storage procedures according to Health Department guidelines for cold and dry storage, including proper storage of leftover foods.
  • Report needed maintenance issues to the Maintenance Director.
  • Keep up with any necessary reporting and statistics.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Manages Volunteers.
Education and/or Experience: Experience in the related field of one to three months are greatly encouraged.
Qualifications: The requirements listed below are representative of the minimal knowledge, skill, and/or ability required for this position.
  • Ability to be flexible and able to work on multiple projects or tasks simultaneously
  • Knowledge of basic tools, cleaning equipment and cleaning products.
  • Basic computer skills with ability to access payroll, timekeeping and personal data via a web-based system.
  • Attention to detail and creative problem-solving skills.
  • Strong independent judgement.

Other Qualifications: Must pass all applicable background checks.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Must successfully complete Safe from Harm training within 90 days of hire, as established by The Salvation Army. Serve Safe Manager Certification, CPR, and AED.
Physical Requirements: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical requirements include good speaking, hearing and vision ability and excellent manual dexterity. Ability to stand, bend and reach for extended periods of time, dexterity of hands and fingers to operate cleaning equipment. This position will require the ability to lift and/or move more than 50 pounds occasionally.
Working Conditions: The work environment is a kitchen, with exposure to varying temperatures and noise levels.
All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree that they will do nothing as an employee of The Salvation Army to undermine its religious mission.
The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.

What Salvation Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

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