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Union Cook Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

Vessel Cook

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Description Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking a cook to work aboard the Environmental ... and Pilots union . * Preferred United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential with an ...

Vessel Cook

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$322.13/day

Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking a cook to work aboard the Environmental Protection ... and Pilots union . * Preferred United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential with an ...

Hot Line Cook

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Central Kitchen STATUS: PT/FT, Union, Hourly REPORTS TO: Production Manager JOB SUMMARY: To ensure ... Perform advanced culinary procedures and extensive cooking on a hot line. * Complete tasks as ...

Central Kitchen STATUS: PT/FT, Union, Hourly REPORTS TO: Production Manager JOB SUMMARY: To ensure ... Perform advanced culinary procedures and extensive cooking on a hot line. * Complete tasks as ...

Cafe - Line Cook

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Café STATUS: PT/FT, Journeyperson, Union, Hourly REPORTS TO: Café Manager JOB SUMMARY: To ensure ... Previous cooking experience preferred * Demonstrated ability to adhere to sanitation and production ...

Café STATUS: PT/FT, Journeyperson, Union, Hourly REPORTS TO: Café Manager JOB SUMMARY: To ensure ... Previous cooking experience preferred * Demonstrated ability to adhere to sanitation and production ...

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Union Cook information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

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How much do union cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for union cook in Milwaukee, WI is $15.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $17.74 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 is a union cook?

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 Milwaukee, WI? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Cook jobs in Milwaukee, WI? For Union Cook jobs in Milwaukee, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Cook jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Union Cook jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Union Cook jobs? Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Union Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Cook job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Full Time, and 71% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,848 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Description

Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking a cook to work aboard the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) research vessel (R/V) Lake Guardian, which can accommodate up to 42 people when fully loaded. However, typical operational days on the water involve preparing meals for 20 - 30 people.


The R/V Lake Guardian berths at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Freshwater Sciences Marine Facilities dock in Milwaukee, Wisconsin when not conducting survey operations throughout the Great Lakes. 


The primary homeport is Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  Approximate 150 - 270 days at sea each year, with additional working days on the vessel. 


Tasks/Duties

The Cook is responsible for the planning and preparing a varied, nutritious meals at breakfast, lunch and dinner, following the food safety and sanitation policies within the galley. The provisions provided to personnel must have a reasonable degree of variety, quality, nutritional value, and sufficient quantity for all personnel aboard. Special menu requests for personnel with food allergies, medical or religious restrictions, and vegetarian and vegan diets may be requested in advance.

The Cook is required to be knowledgeable about basic food chemistry, storage, and preparation and able to read and understand written food labels printed in English. 


The Cook acquires and manages provisions for the ship, actively supports acquisition, delivery and loading of provisions, controls cost of provisions, maintains an inventory of provisions, rotates stock items to prevent spoilage, and keeps accurate records of expenditures and receipts. 


The galley service shall include napkins, ceramic dishware, glasses and metal utensils. 


Sufficient snacks and food for reheating and/or cold foods for self-preparation (e.g. yogurts, hot cereal, breads, sandwich ingredients such as cold cuts and cheeses, salads, etc.) must be available for crew and personnel serving overnight shifts. 


Leftover meal items should also be saved and made available for overnight personnel when sufficient quantities are available. 


The Cook shall also be familiar with and strictly observe all shipboard safety management procedures and applicable regulations pertaining to garbage disposal from the galley.

Requirements

  • Preferred experience working in remote locations on a vessel, including preparation of meals for the vessel crew and passengers. 
  • Experience planning menus to cater to the dietary needs and preferences of groups of approximately 20 - 40 people, including consideration of any dietary restrictions, allergies, or cultural preferences.
  • Experience maintaining budgeted meal costs while providing nutritious and satisfying meals. While adhering to budget constraints, the cook should be creative in preparing meals that are both nutritious and enjoyable for the crew.
  • Knowledge of proper food handling, storage, and hygiene practices is essential. 
  • The cook will work closely with other crew members, so being a good team player is crucial. Cooperation and effective communication are essential for a harmonious working environment.
  • Must be a member, or willing to become a member of the International Organization of Masters, Mates, and Pilots union
  • Preferred United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential with an Ordinary Seaman or higher endorsement. 
  • Ability to work collegially with scientists, natural resources managers, and educators.
  • Have a valid US state issued driver's license.

AAP/EEO Statement 

CPC is an EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status.


Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities, that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.