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Temporary Cooking Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

WCPSS

Temporary - Hourly

Cary, NC · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Performs work to prepare, cook and serve meals, salads and a la-carte items; prepares entrees, vegetables, and other side dishes according to standardized recipes and keeps accurate documentation of ...

WCPSS

Temporary - Hourly

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Performs work to prepare, cook and serve meals, salads and a la-carte items; prepares entrees, vegetables, and other side dishes according to standardized recipes and keeps accurate documentation of ...

Wake County Public School System

Temporary - Hourly

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Performs work to prepare, cook and serve meals, salads and a la-carte items; prepares entrees, vegetables, and other side dishes according to standardized recipes and keeps accurate documentation of ...

Wake County Public School System

Temporary - Hourly

Cary, NC · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Performs work to prepare, cook and serve meals, salads and a la-carte items; prepares entrees, vegetables, and other side dishes according to standardized recipes and keeps accurate documentation of ...

Wake County Public School System

Temporary - Hourly

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Performs work to prepare, cook and serve meals, salads and a la-carte items; prepares entrees, vegetables, and other side dishes according to standardized recipes and keeps accurate documentation of ...

WCPSS

Temporary - Hourly

Cary, NC · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Performs work to prepare, cook and serve meals, salads and a la-carte items; prepares entrees, vegetables, and other side dishes according to standardized recipes and keeps accurate documentation of ...

WCPSS

Temporary - Hourly

Raleigh, NC

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Performs work to prepare, cook and serve meals, salads and a la-carte items; prepares entrees, vegetables, and other side dishes according to standardized recipes and keeps accurate documentation of ...

Wake County Public School System

Temporary - Hourly

Cary, NC · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Performs work to prepare, cook and serve meals, salads and a la-carte items; prepares entrees, vegetables, and other side dishes according to standardized recipes and keeps accurate documentation of ...

NCSU

Lead Cook

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Perform small batch cooking and made to order items, display station set-up and service, and ... The department employs approximately 1000 temporary and student employees and approximately 190 ...

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Temporary Cooking information

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 are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in North Carolina?

The most popular types of Cooking jobs in North Carolina are:

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Temporary Cooking jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Temporary Cooking job openings:

Temporary Cooking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Cooking job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Lead Cook - Temporary

North Carolina State University

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$17/hr

Temporary

Medical

Re-posted 17 days ago

North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

464th of 629 rated colleges and universities

Job description

To be considered for this opportuntiy, you MUST apply on our website by using the following link: https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/230723.

Essential Job Duties:
NC State Dining is seeking individuals to Join our Pack as a Lead Cook. Successful candidates will receive instructions from the chef and other culinary professionals in a dining hall, food court or restaurant setting.

Essential job duties include:
  • Provide professional guidance and instructions to temporary Line Station Cooks and student Cooks.
  • Prepare food as per the standardized recipes and specifications.
  • Perform small batch cooking and made to order items, display station set-up and service, and transport cooked foods to hot boxes for line service.
  • Provide support to the front of house operations with back-up food to ensure that there is no lag time between changing out food items.
  • Portion food products prior to cooking according to standard portion sizes and recipe specifications.
  • Perform specialty tasks such as display station set up and service, enhanced garnishing, recipe development and event meal assistance.
  • Check temperatures and proper storage of food items, and follow proper guidelines in the storage of food to prevent contamination and spoilage.
  • Operate all kitchen equipment safety and as recommended by manufacturer.
  • Perform necessary cleaning of utensils, work space, tables, shelves, and equipment in accordance with maintaining a Grade “A” Sanitation rating.
  • Participate in recipe development, and event meal assistance.
  • Other duties as assigned to ensure NC State Dining business needs are met. Position may be asked to assist in other locations as necessary.

This is an hourly position, that includes a State required 32-day break at the end of 11 months. Superior work performance may provide an opportunity to renew employment and/or advance into a benefits eligible permanent position.

NC State Dining provides campus wide food services to students, staff, and faculty on the North Carolina State University Campus. NC State Dining operates 10 cafes, 3 food courts and 6 dining halls, 4 markets, 1 restaurant, vending, a nutritional counseling service, and a catering department. The department employs approximately 1000 temporary and student employees and approximately 190 permanent EHRA and SHRA employees.

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

What we offer:
  • Health Insurance for Temporary Employees.
  • Enhance your career with LEAD courses.
  • Attend non-revenue generating sporting events for free.

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare discounts, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Disclaimer:
Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Position Information: Requirements and Preferences.

Work Schedule:
Shifts are available from early morning to late nights including weekends. Please list your availability in the appropriate section of the application. Full- and part-time positions are available.

Work/Responsibilities:
  • Be an ambassador for NC State Dining and the university as a whole and enrich the quality of life for the campus community and support student success.
  • Work as a cohesive team member and play an integral part in creating a positive work environment.

Minimum Experience/Education:
  • High School Diploma or equivalency.
  • Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work will also be considered.

Department Required Skills:
  • Previous cooking experience.
  • Knowledge of equipment, cooking methods, measurements, food quality and appearance, and food safety.
  • Be dependable and manage time efficiently.
  • Ability to work proficiently in a busy kitchen is essential.
  • Adapt to the changing customer volume level with a sense of urgency.
  • Follow written and/or verbal instructions, and complete all tasks with excellence.
  • Communicate effectively with customers, supervisors, and peers, and work cohesively as part of a team.
  • Provide outstanding customer service, including the ability to remain professional and respectful under pressure when dealing with difficult situations.
  • Ability to follow safety procedures. Will routinely handle sharp items such as knives and slicer blades as well as be around hot food items, food pans, ovens, fryers, steam tables, grills.
  • This position requires standing for long periods of time, walking, bending, twisting, pulling and pushing. Because of the nature of a food service operation and working in a kitchen, you must be able to work in extremely hot and cold conditions.
  • Must be able to lift up to 60 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education:
  • Culinary Arts Education (certificate, diploma or degree).
  • Two years of progressive culinary experience.
  • Proficient at recipe preparation, short order and high volume cooking.
  • Diverse culinary knowledge, such as working knowledge of meat fabrication, a variety of cuisines, measurements, and knife skills.
  • Demonstrated understanding of proper food safety, cleaning and sanitation procedures.
  • Serv Safe certificate.

Recruitment Details: Anticipated Hiring Range. $17 per hour.

Recruitment Dates: Job Open Date. 05/18/2026.

Applicant Information: Quick Link https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/230721 EEO NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887

View All North Carolina State University Jobs