Third Cook
Medford, MA · On-site
$28.16/hr
What You'll Do The Third Cook prepares, cooks, and presents a variety of menu items in accordance with established recipes, production schedules, quality standards, and food safety requirements. This ...
Third Cook
Medford, MA · On-site
$28.16/hr
What You'll Do The Third Cook prepares, cooks, and presents a variety of menu items in accordance with established recipes, production schedules, quality standards, and food safety requirements. This ...
Third Cook
Boston, MA · On-site
$28.16/hr
What You'll Do The Third Cook prepares, cooks, and presents a variety of menu items in accordance with established recipes, production schedules, quality standards, and food safety requirements. This ...
Third Cook
Boston, MA · On-site
$28.16/hr
What You'll Do The Third Cook prepares, cooks, and presents a variety of menu items in accordance with established recipes, production schedules, quality standards, and food safety requirements. This ...
Third Cook
Amherst, VA · On-site
$21.24 - $21.75/hr
The Third Cook is a full-time, year-round position. The expected salary range for this job opportunity is: $21.24-21.75 per hour. The salary offered will vary based on a number of factors, including ...
Third Cook
Amherst, VA · On-site
$21.24 - $21.75/hr
The Third Cook is a full-time, year-round position. The expected salary range for this job opportunity is: $21.24-21.75 per hour. The salary offered will vary based on a number of factors, including ...
Third Cook
Amherst, MA · On-site
$21.24 - $21.75/hr
The Third Cook is a full-time, year-round position. The expected salary range for this job opportunity is: $21.24-21.75 per hour. The salary offered will vary based on a number of factors, including ...
Third Cook
Amherst, MA · On-site
$21.24 - $21.75/hr
The Third Cook is a full-time, year-round position. The expected salary range for this job opportunity is: $21.24-21.75 per hour. The salary offered will vary based on a number of factors, including ...
Third Cook
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$18.10/hr
Third Cook 513200 Summary: The Third Cook is responsible for food production, preparation and presentation, and is able to rotate through all food stations to ensure a high quality product is served ...
Third Cook
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$18.10/hr
Third Cook 513200 Summary: The Third Cook is responsible for food production, preparation and presentation, and is able to rotate through all food stations to ensure a high quality product is served ...
Third Cook
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$18.10/hr
The Third Cook is responsible for food production, preparation and presentation, and is able to rotate through all food stations to ensure a high quality product is served to the customer. This role ...
Third Cook
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$18.10/hr
The Third Cook is responsible for food production, preparation and presentation, and is able to rotate through all food stations to ensure a high quality product is served to the customer. This role ...
Third Cook
$18.10/hr
The Third Cook is responsible for food production, preparation and presentation, and is able to rotate through all food stations to ensure a high quality product is served to the customer. This role ...
Third Cook
$18.10/hr
The Third Cook is responsible for food production, preparation and presentation, and is able to rotate through all food stations to ensure a high quality product is served to the customer. This role ...
Third Cook - Lansing Center
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$20.55/hr
The Cook is responsible for preparing cooked foods, and must be able to perform all station functions of Fry, Flat Top Griddle, Pantry, and cooking eggs; communicating ticket times and potential ...
Third Cook
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$20.55/hr
The Cook is responsible for preparing cooked foods, and must be able to perform all station functions of Fry, Flat Top Griddle, Pantry, and cooking eggs; communicating ticket times and potential ...
Third Cook
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$20.55/hr
The Cook is responsible for preparing cooked foods, and must be able to perform all station functions of Fry, Flat Top Griddle, Pantry, and cooking eggs; communicating ticket times and potential ...
Third Cook
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$20.55/hr
The Cook is responsible for preparing cooked foods, and must be able to perform all station functions of Fry, Flat Top Griddle, Pantry, and cooking eggs; communicating ticket times and potential ...
Third Cook
$20.55/hr
The Cook is responsible for preparing cooked foods, and must be able to perform all station functions of Fry, Flat Top Griddle, Pantry, and cooking eggs; communicating ticket times and potential ...
Third Cook
$20.55/hr
The Cook is responsible for preparing cooked foods, and must be able to perform all station functions of Fry, Flat Top Griddle, Pantry, and cooking eggs; communicating ticket times and potential ...
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Lansing Center
Lansing, MI · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Third Cook DEPARTMENT: Foodservice REPORTS TO: Sous Chef FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-exempt LEGENDS GLOBAL Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.
Third Cook - Corcoran Commons
Chestnut Hill, MA · On-site
$15.25 - $20.50/hr
Third Cook Basic Function and Responsibility Under direction, performs a variety of routine, supportive duties to assist in the preparation of food for use in the dining operations and/or catered ...
Third Cook - Corcoran Commons
Chestnut Hill, MA · On-site
$15.25 - $20.50/hr
Third Cook Basic Function and Responsibility Under direction, performs a variety of routine, supportive duties to assist in the preparation of food for use in the dining operations and/or catered ...
Third Cook information
See salary details
$9.62 - $10.95
0% of jobs
$10.95 - $12.28
0% of jobs
$12.28 - $13.61
0% of jobs
$13.61 - $14.95
5% of jobs
$14.95 - $16.28
18% of jobs
$16.44 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.28 - $17.61
18% of jobs
The median wage is $18.61 / hr.
$17.61 - $18.95
13% of jobs
$20.07 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.95 - $20.28
26% of jobs
$20.28 - $21.61
10% of jobs
$21.61 - $22.95
4% of jobs
$22.95 - $24.28
6% of jobs
$9
$18
$24
How much do third cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for third cook in the United States is $18.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a third cook?
A third cook is an entry-level position in a professional kitchen, responsible for assisting with basic food preparation and maintaining cleanliness. They often support higher-level cooks and chefs with tasks such as chopping vegetables, preparing simple dishes, and ensuring that ingredients are ready for use. Third cooks may also help with inventory, storage, and following food safety procedures. This role is a common starting point for those pursuing a culinary career and offers opportunities to learn essential kitchen skills.
What are the typical responsibilities and challenges faced by a third cook in a professional kitchen?
As a Third Cook, you are often responsible for basic food preparation, maintaining cleanliness in your station, and assisting higher-level cooks with cooking and plating dishes. One common challenge is working efficiently during busy service times while adhering to food safety and quality standards. You'll also need to adapt quickly to changing priorities and support the kitchen team wherever needed. This role offers valuable hands-on experience and is a solid stepping stone for advancement within the culinary field.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a third cook, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Third Cook, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and sanitation, often supported by a high school diploma or culinary coursework. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and recipe management systems is typical. Strong teamwork, time management, and a willingness to learn help you stand out in this entry-level culinary role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, food safety, and support for higher-level chefs in a busy food service environment.
What is the difference between Third Cook vs Second Cook?
| Aspect | Third Cook | Second Cook |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Basic culinary training, culinary school preferred | Advanced culinary training, more experience required |
| Work Environment | Assists in kitchen, prepares basic dishes | Prepares complex dishes, supervises junior staff |
| Employer Usage | Entry to mid-level kitchen role | Mid-level role with more responsibilities |
The Third Cook typically has basic culinary training and assists in preparing dishes under supervision, while the Second Cook has more experience, handles complex tasks, and may oversee junior staff. The Second Cook's role involves greater responsibility and skill, making it a step above the Third Cook in the kitchen hierarchy.
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What job categories do people searching Third Cook jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Third Cook jobs are:
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For Third Cook jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Tufts University rating
8.4
Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
102nd of 628 rated colleges and universities
Job description
Overview
This role is an academic year position.
Shift: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM. Friday: 11:45 AM - 8:15 PM. Tuesday & Saturday Off.
Tufts Dining is a self-operated food service provider managing a comprehensive collegiate dining program on the Tufts University Medford/Somerville and SMFA/Fenway campus, delivering high quality, contemporary and innovative food and hospitality services to meet the various needs of students, staff, faculty, administrators and visitors in a fiscally responsible manner. Our team provides a progressive resident dining program as well as innovative retail services, and a distinctive university catering program serving a campus community comprised of 6600 undergraduates, 2100 graduate students, and 2300 staff, faculty and administrators.
Residential dining Centers and Catering are open 7 days a week. Working weekends & evenings will be expected.
What You'll Do
The Third Cook prepares, cooks, and presents a variety of menu items in accordance with established recipes, production schedules, quality standards, and food safety requirements. This position utilizes a variety of cooking methods and commercial kitchen equipment to produce food in support of daily dining operations.
What We're Looking For
Basic Requirements:
Knowledge and experience typically acquired by:
Preferred Qualifications:
The pay rate for this position is $28.16 / hour.
This role is an academic year position.
Shift: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM. Friday: 11:45 AM - 8:15 PM. Tuesday & Saturday Off.
Tufts Dining is a self-operated food service provider managing a comprehensive collegiate dining program on the Tufts University Medford/Somerville and SMFA/Fenway campus, delivering high quality, contemporary and innovative food and hospitality services to meet the various needs of students, staff, faculty, administrators and visitors in a fiscally responsible manner. Our team provides a progressive resident dining program as well as innovative retail services, and a distinctive university catering program serving a campus community comprised of 6600 undergraduates, 2100 graduate students, and 2300 staff, faculty and administrators.
Residential dining Centers and Catering are open 7 days a week. Working weekends & evenings will be expected.
What You'll Do
The Third Cook prepares, cooks, and presents a variety of menu items in accordance with established recipes, production schedules, quality standards, and food safety requirements. This position utilizes a variety of cooking methods and commercial kitchen equipment to produce food in support of daily dining operations.
- The Third Cook is responsible for maintaining assigned production stations, ensuring food is prepared and served in a timely manner, and maintaining high standards of food quality, sanitation, and customer service.
- Working both independently and as part of a team, the Third Cook assists with food preparation, service, station setup and breakdown, and other kitchen-related duties as assigned.
- The position is responsible for following all food safety and sanitation procedures, maintaining a clean and organized work area, and accurately completing required production and temperature logs.
- In customer-facing areas, the Third Cook provides courteous and professional service while contributing to a positive dining experience.
- The Third Cook must demonstrate the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, adapt to changing business needs, and perform assigned duties with minimal supervision.
- This position supports the overall success of dining operations through a commitment to quality, safety, teamwork, and exceptional customer service while performing additional duties as required to meet departmental and operational needs.
- All employees are responsible for punching in and out in accordance with department policy and standards.
- All employees must be given permission from a manager to punch in early or stay past their schedule "out time."
- All employees must adhere to posted schedule.
- All requests for time off will be granted based on business needs.
- In accordance with the CBA, schedules will be posted 14 days (excludes catering) in advance.
- Time off requests must follow proper procedure and will be approved or denied in accordance with department needs.
- No request will be honored for Senior Week, Holidays, Alumni Weekend, Commencement, Orientation, Matriculation, or Special Events during the Academic Year.
What We're Looking For
Basic Requirements:
Knowledge and experience typically acquired by:
- High School Diploma or GED, or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Minimum of 1 year of food preparation or commercial kitchen experience preferred
- Ability to safely operate commercial foodservice equipment or learn equipment operation through on-the-job training
- Demonstrated knife skills and knowledge of basic culinary techniques
- Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and proper food handling procedures
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong customer service and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Associate Degree or Certificate in Culinary Arts
- ServSafe Food Handler or ServSafe Manager Certification
- Experience in high-volume institutional, university, hotel, restaurant, healthcare, or catering foodservice operations
- Experience using commercial food production equipment
The pay rate for this position is $28.16 / hour.
What Tufts University employees say
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Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
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About Tufts University
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Colleges, universities, and professional schools
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Medford, MA, US
Year founded
1852