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Temporary Cooking Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Brookfield, WI · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook

Middleton, WI · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook

La Crosse, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.18/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

HELPER COOK

Marinette, WI · On-site

$14/hr

Prior cooking experience is preferred. * Perks: Will train! * Fixed Pay Rate: $14.00 per hour ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Prior cooking experience is preferred. * Perks: Will train! * Fixed Pay Rate: $14.00 per hour ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Prior cooking experience is preferred. * Perks: Will train! * Fixed Pay Rate: $14.00 per hour ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Prior cooking experience is preferred. * Perks: Will train! * Fixed Pay Rate: $14.00 per hour ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

cook

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

$20.80 - $31.20/hr

Will be exposed to sharp knives, other sharp cooking utensils, heat from ovens and other hazards in ... diem, temporary, etc.); please ask a Recruiter for more information during an interview. About ...

COOK

Kimberly, WI · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Prior cooking experience is preferred, but not required. *Internal Employee Referral Bonus ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Cook

Manitowoc, WI · On-site

$20.80 - $31.20/hr

Will be exposed to sharp knives, other sharp cooking utensils, heat from ovens and other hazards in ... diem, temporary, etc.); please ask a Recruiter for more information during an interview. About ...

COOK

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Previous cooking experience required. * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour to $20.00 per hour. *Internal ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

COOK

River Falls, WI · On-site

$17.75/hr

Prior cooking experience is required. * Fixed Pay Rate: $17.75 per hour. We Make Applying Easy ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

cook

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

$20.80 - $31.20/hr

Will be exposed to sharp knives, other sharp cooking utensils, heat from ovens and other hazards in ... diem, temporary, etc.); please ask a Recruiter for more information during an interview. About ...

Cook

Two Rivers, WI · On-site

$20.80 - $31.20/hr

Will be exposed to sharp knives, other sharp cooking utensils, heat from ovens and other hazards in ... diem, temporary, etc.); please ask a Recruiter for more information during an interview. About ...

COOK (FULL TIME)

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Previous cooking experience required. * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour to $20.00 per hour. *Internal ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

COOK (FULL TIME)

Wauwatosa, WI

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Previous cooking experience required. * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour to $20.00 per hour. *Internal ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

COOK (FULL TIME)

Kimberly, WI

$14 - $18.75/hr

Prior cooking experience is preferred, but not required. *Internal Employee Referral Bonus ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Wisconsin are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Temporary Cooking jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Temporary Cooking job openings:

Infographic showing various Temporary Cooking job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

$13 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Brookdale Senior Living rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 532 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

211th of 242 rated social care providers


Job description


Recognized by Newsweek in 2024 and 2025 as one of America's Greatest Workplaces for Diversity
No Late Nights! Grow your career with Brookdale! Our Cooks have the option to explore exciting opportunities for advancement in positions such as Lead Cooks, Sous Chefs and Managers of Dining Services.
Make Lives Better Including Your Own.
If you want to work in an environment where you can become your best possible self, join us! You'll earn more than a paycheck; you can find opportunities to grow your career through professional development, as well as ongoing programs catered to your overall health and wellness. Full suite of health insurance, life insurance and retirement plans are available and vary by employment status.
Part and Full Time Benefits Eligibility
  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Associate assistance program
  • Employee discounts
  • Referral program
  • Early access to earned wages for hourly associates (outside of CA)
  • Optional voluntary benefits including ID theft protection and pet insurance

Full Time Only Benefits Eligibility
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid holidays
  • Company provided life insurance
  • Adoption benefit
  • Disability (short and long term)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Health Savings Account
  • Optional life and dependent life insurance
  • Optional voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity Insurance, and legal plan
  • Tuition reimbursement

Base pay in range will be determined by applicant's skills and experience. Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program.
Veterans, transitioning active duty military personnel, and military spouses are encouraged to apply. To support our associates in their journey to become a U.S. citizen, Brookdale offers to advance fees for naturalization (Form N-400) application costs, up to $725, less applicable taxes and withholding, for qualified associates who have been with us for at least a year.
The application window is anticipated to close within 30 days of the date of the posting.
Responsibilities
  • Ensures proper preparation, portioning and serving of food according to standardized recipes and menus. You will use your prior experience with cutting tools, cookware and bakeware, combined with your knowledge of cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.
  • Adheres to all sanitation and food safety standards. Maintains a clean kitchen.
  • Prepares food in a timely manner at specified meal times

Brookdale is an equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace.
About Us
Brookdale is a Great Place to Be:
  • Gracious hospitality and neighborliness for our residents and families.
  • Home-like feel and all-around comfort for residents and visiting family members.
  • Entertaining events and gatherings so our residents can find connections in groups and 1:1 settings.
  • Industry leader in clinical care.
  • Nationwide company with 589 communities as of November 30, 2025, offering many opportunities to grow and learn as a sales professional.
  • Extensive corporate support including a robust training program.

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