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Temporary Cooking Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

COOK

Grimes, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Previous cooking and food service experience is required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per hour to $17.00 ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Chartwells K12

COOK (FULL TIME)

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Previous supervisory and large batch cooking experience is preferred. * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Compass Group

COOK (PART TIME)

Grimes, IA

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Previous cooking and food service experience is required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per hour to $17.00 ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Compass Group

COOK (PART TIME)

Grimes, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Previous cooking and food service experience is required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per hour to $17.00 ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Chartwells K12

COOK (PART TIME)

Grimes, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Previous cooking and food service experience is required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per hour to $17.00 ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Compass Group

COOK (FULL TIME)

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Previous supervisory and large batch cooking experience is preferred. * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Compass Group

COOK (FULL TIME)

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Previous supervisory and large batch cooking experience is preferred. * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

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

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.75/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

Carroll, IA · On-site

$14 - $19.25/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 ...

New

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate - Temporary

Ankeny, 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

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

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

$13.25 - $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

Ankeny, 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

Altoona, IA · On-site

$14 - $19.25/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 ...

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All JobsCooking JobsTemporary Cooking JobsTemporary Cooking Jobs in Iowa

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 companies will pay you to cook?

Many companies in the food service industry, such as restaurants, catering firms, hotels, and cafeterias, hire temporary cooks and pay them for their cooking skills. These positions often require food safety certifications and may involve flexible or seasonal schedules. Temporary cooking jobs can be found through staffing agencies, job boards, or directly applying to hospitality businesses.

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.

Is 35 too late to become a chef?

There is no age limit to becoming a chef, and many successful chefs start their careers later in life. Gaining culinary skills through training or apprenticeships can be done at any age, and experience can be an asset in the kitchen.

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.

Can I get a 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 understanding food safety, teamwork, and a willingness to learn can help you secure entry-level positions in kitchens or food service environments.

What jobs can you do if you like cooking?

If you enjoy cooking, you can pursue jobs such as line cook, prep cook, chef, or catering assistant. These roles typically require food safety certifications and involve working in kitchens, restaurants, or catering services to prepare and cook food. Opportunities may also include bakery work or food production roles in manufacturing settings.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.
COOK

COOK

Compass Group

Grimes, IA • On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 1,071 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 449 rated business services

Job description

  • We are hiring immediately for part time COOK positions.
  • Location: Dallas Center Grimes - 2405 West 1st Street, Grimes, IA 50111. Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Part time schedules; Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. More details upon interview.
  • Requirement: Previous cooking and food service experience is required.
  • Pay Range: $15.00 per hour to $17.00 per hour.
    *Internal Employee Referral Bonus Available

We Make Applying Easy! Want to apply to this job via text messaging? Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1540475.
The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with Compass Group. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: http://olivia.paradox.ai/moSkg
Diversity of thought and inclusion for all is what drives our success - we invite you to start your journey with us today!
Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.
Job Summary
Summary: Prepares food in accordance with applicable federal, state and corporate standards, guidelines and regulations with established policies and procedures. Ensures quality food service is provided at all times.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Prepares high-quality food items according to standardized recipes and instructions to meet production, delivery and service schedules.
  • Serves meals or prepares for delivery by using correct portioning, meeting outlined standards, ensuring that food is at the correct temperature and is attractive and tasty. Tastes all prepared food items.
  • Uses established ticket collection procedures during service. Responsible for records from area worked during service periods.
  • Cleans kitchen after preparation and serving, maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Stores or discards excess food in accordance with safe food-handling procedures.
  • Keeps refrigerators and storerooms clean and neat. Ensures food and supply items are stored per standards.
  • Operates and maintains kitchen equipment as instructed.
  • Assists in production planning, record keeping and reporting as required.
  • Assists in the ordering and receiving of all food and supplies as required.
  • Reports needed maintenance, faulty equipment or accidents to the supervisor immediately.
  • Attends in-service and safety meetings.
  • Maintains good working relationships with coworkers, customers, administrators and managers.
  • Performs job safely while maintaining a clean, safe work environment.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Ensures proper presentation, portion control and maintenance of serving temperatures; follows HACCP standards.
  • Personal commitment to your own safety and that of others.
  • Abides by all Company policies and procedures including but not limited to:
    • The use of a medium weight cut gloves when handling or using knives, peelers, choppers, mandolins or cleaning a slicer.
    • The use of oven mitts, fryer gloves or steamer gloves when handling hot pans from ovens, warmers or steamtables.
    • The use of slip-resistant shoes and proper lifting techniques.

Associates at Chartwells K-12 are offered many fantastic benefits.
Both full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates:
  • Retirement Plan
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program

In addition, full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.
https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_ChartwellsK12.pdf
Because this position requires you to perform services in an educational facility, there may be periods when the Company does not require you to perform work (such as winter and summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the Company's behalf will be unpaid and deemed a temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round, potentially at a different location during break periods. Business needs may vary from year to year.
About Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the foodservice industry
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.
Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Chartwells K-12 maintains a drug-free workplace.

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