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Union Cook Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Williamsburg, VA ยท On-site

$16.75/hr

Credit Union Membership * Tuition Reimbursement * Professional Counseling & Family Support * Growth and Development Opportunities * *Benefit Eligibility will vary by position Site Specific Perks ...

Competitive Pay Medical/Dental/Vision/401K opportunities Travel discounts Credit Union Membership ... Cooks all potentially hazardous food to correct temperatures following HACCP guidelines. Follows ...

Cook

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$18.25 - $19/hr

Cook Location ... VIRGINIA UNION UNIVERSITY - 69633001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open ...

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Union Cook information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do union cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for union cook in Virginia is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Union Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Union Cook, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and typically a high school diploma or culinary certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and often ServSafe certification is important for daily operations. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure consistent food quality, compliance with regulations, and a harmonious, productive kitchen environment.

What are Union Cooks?

Union Cooks are culinary professionals who are members of a labor union, typically working in environments such as hotels, restaurants, schools, or other food service establishments. Being part of a union means they benefit from collective bargaining agreements that often provide better wages, benefits, job security, and working conditions compared to non-union positions. Union Cooks are responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting food according to established standards and safety regulations. They may also participate in union meetings and activities to ensure their workplace rights are protected. Their role is vital in maintaining high-quality food service and ensuring fair labor practices in the industry.

What is the difference between Union Cook vs Non-Union Cook?

AspectUnion CookNon-Union Cook
CredentialsMay require union-specific certifications, apprenticeship programsTypically no union-specific credentials needed
Work EnvironmentWorks in unionized facilities with collective bargaining agreementsWorks in non-unionized settings, often with more flexibility
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large hotels, casinos, and institutional kitchensMore prevalent in small restaurants and independent eateries
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for benefits, wages, job securityCompared for flexibility, independence, and pay

Union Cooks are employed in unionized environments with collective bargaining, often enjoying better benefits and job security. Non-Union Cooks work in non-union settings, which may offer more flexibility but less job security. The choice depends on individual preferences for benefits versus independence.

What are some common challenges faced by Union Cooks in a large-scale kitchen environment?

Union Cooks in large-scale kitchen environments often face challenges such as managing high-volume food production while maintaining quality and consistency. They must also adhere strictly to safety and sanitation standards, which can be demanding during busy service periods. Additionally, Union Cooks frequently work as part of a coordinated team, requiring strong communication and adaptability to changing menus or special dietary requests. These challenges are balanced by structured schedules and clear delineation of responsibilities, which help support a collaborative and organized work environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Cook jobs in Virginia? For Union Cook jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Union Cook jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Union Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Cook job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,054 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Line Cook - Makers Union (Arlington)

Line Cook - Makers Union (Arlington)

Thompson Hospitality Corporation

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$18 - $22.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


Thompson Hospitality rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
Join the talented culinary team at Makers Union and showcase your passion for food in a modern pub setting. As a Line Cook, you will have the opportunity to create delicious dishes with locally sourced ingredients and contribute to an exciting and diverse menu. Be part of a collaborative and fast-paced environment where your culinary skills will shine.
Responsibilities
  • Prepare and cook menu items in accordance with recipes and quality standards.
  • Ensure proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures are followed.
  • Collaborate with the kitchen team to ensure timely and efficient food production.
  • Maintain a clean and organized workstation, following food safety guidelines.
  • Adhere to portion control and presentation guidelines to ensure consistency.
  • Assist in inventory management and stock rotation to minimize waste.

Qualifications
  • Culinary experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
  • Strong understanding of cooking techniques, flavor profiles, and proper food handling procedures.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team, communicate clearly, and adapt to changing demands.
  • Attention to detail, commitment to quality, and a passion for delivering exceptional food to our guests.

Physical Requirements:
  • Cooking experience in a high-volume restaurant preferred.
  • Able to read documents and written instructions to understand sanitation requirements, safety rules, equipment operation and maintenance, policies, and standard operating procedures.
  • Certification in food safety and sanitation is a plus.
  • Able to work flexible shifts and schedules, inclusive of weekends, and all holidays.
  • Stand for long hours, often in wet conditions.
  • Lift and carry up to 50 lbs (Dishes, garbage bags).
  • Work in a hot, humid, and fast-paced environment.
  • Bend, stoop, and reach frequently.
  • Operate kitchen equipment safely.

Who We Are:
Makers Union was created with inclusiveness at its core, reimagining the modern pub experience. It features craveable, locally sourced food and drinks from regional breweries, distilleries, roasters, and wineries. The fun and approachable menu blends classic favorites with globally inspired dishes that reflect the local diversity of the area. Designed for versatility, Makers Union is a welcoming space for everything from watching a game or rolling solo to socializing with friends or dining with family.
Thompson Hospitality is of the largest restaurants, food service, and facilities management companies in the country. We are highly built upon our values, do the right thing, do the best you can, and treat others how you want to be treated, which are shaped by more than 33 years of relationships with our clients, guests, and communities. We offer competitive benefits, see our website for more. https://www.thompsonhospitality.com/
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Thompson Hospitality logo

About Thompson Hospitality

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Thompson Hospitality is the nation's largest minority-owned food and facilities management company. Our services include hospitality, full dining and quick service restaurants, campus dining, diversity consultation, facility operations and maintenance management. We are a family-run organization with more than twenty-five years providing services built on our core mission to provide a positive experience to every relationship we are involved in: one guest, one client, one team member at a time. As a fast growing company, we have a growth plan to more than double in size over the next three years. We are looking for team members who are interested in developing their careers to the next level while joining our team of over 4,000 employees, serving clients in over 40 states to include more than 1.9 million guests each year.

Industry

Hospitality services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

Year founded

1992

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