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Union Cook Jobs in Secaucus, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Union Square Cafe

Line Cook

Manhattan, NY

$20 - $25/hr

Union Square Cafe's seasonal cuisine draws inspiration from the kitchens and tables of Italy ... As a Line Cook, you have a strong passion for food, technique, and an eagerness to learn more ...

Union Square Cafe

Line Cook

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Union Square Cafe's seasonal cuisine draws inspiration from the kitchens and tables of Italy ... As a Line Cook, you have a strong passion for food, technique, and an eagerness to learn more ...

Union Square Cafe

Pastry Cook

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Union Square Cafe's seasonal cuisine draws inspiration from the kitchens and tables of Italy ... The Pastry Cook is responsible for the daily preparation of food and pastry items for service in ...

Union Square Cafe

Pastry Cook

Manhattan, NY

$18 - $21/hr

Union Square Cafe's seasonal cuisine draws inspiration from the kitchens and tables of Italy ... The Pastry Cook is responsible for the daily preparation of food and pastry items for service in ...

Union Square Events

HELPER COOK (ON CALL)

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Union Square Events - 147 41st Street, 4th Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11232. Note: online applications ... Two years of previous cooking experience is required. * Pay Range: $28.00 per hour to $35.00 per ...

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Union Cook information

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How much do union cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for union cook in Secaucus, NJ is $16.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $18.32 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 Secaucus, NJ? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Secaucus, NJ are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Cook jobs in Secaucus, NJ? For Union Cook jobs in Secaucus, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Cook jobs in Secaucus, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Union Cook jobs in Secaucus, NJ are:
What cities near Secaucus, NJ are hiring for Union Cook jobs? Cities near Secaucus, NJ with the most Union Cook job openings:
Union Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Cook job openings in Secaucus, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,896 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Line Cook

Union Square Cafe

Manhattan, NY

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Union Square Cafe’s seasonal cuisine draws inspiration from the kitchens and tables of Italy, France, and Northern California. Union Square Cafe—the flagship business that launched Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group—has been one of the country’s most beloved restaurants for over 40 years. In our second home on 19th Street, Union Square Cafe embodies the heartfelt passion and generosity that has been the restaurant’s calling card since we opened in 1985. Designed by Rockwell Group, our new home preserves the restaurant’s signature charm, intimacy, and familiarity in a fresh, contemporary dining environment. Union Square Cafe has won five James Beard Awards and earned Zagat Survey’s #1 ranking as New York’s Most Popular Restaurant an unprecedented nine times

Who you are: 

As a Line Cook, you have a strong passion for food, technique, and an eagerness to learn more, which comes with the opportunity to build on your skills and grow as a leader in the kitchen. The ideal candidate is friendly, curious, and devoted to becoming an integral member of a team that values hard work and attention to every detail.

What you’ll do:

  • Consistently support a culture of Enlightened Hospitality
  • Display a working knowledge of all ingredients and preparation used on the menu
  • Consistently ensure that station mise en place is prepped, seasoned, and stocked throughout service and overall  station remains clean and organized
  • Effectively participates in a professionally run service period, ensuring excellence in cooking, timing, plate assembly, and communication
  • Maintain a calm mental athleticism while managing picks and simultaneously taking direction from expediters and culinary leaders
  • Promote teamwork and excellence amongst the kitchen team
  • Demonstrate an eagerness to refine techniques and a desire to continually learn and grow

What we need from you:

  • 1+ years in a Line Cook position at a full-service restaurant, or similar experience
  • Ability to walk or stand for long periods of time
  • English fluency and additional languages preferred, but not required

What you’ll get from us:

At Union Square Hospitality Group, extending Enlightened Hospitality is at the heart of everything we do. We believe our people are our greatest ingredient. Joining our team means becoming part of a culture rooted in care, creativity, and growth. As a Line Cook, you’ll enjoy:

  • Competitive pay: Hourly rate of $20 - $25/hour
  • Quick access to earnings: Eligibility for the USHG Digital Wallet, where you'll have next-day access to earnings and flexible saving options
  • Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus flexible spending options for healthcare and dependent care
  • Time to recharge: Generous paid time off and paid parental leave to support life outside of work
  • Invest in your future: A matched 401(k) plan to help you grow long-term savings
  • Peace of mind: Life insurance, employee assistance programs, and exclusive access to primary care, mental health, and other wellness services
  • Support in times of need: Access to the USHG HUGS Employee Relief Fund, offering direct assistance to team members facing unexpected hardship
  • Dining Discount: A 51% dining discount across the entire USHG family of restaurants to share unforgettable meals with friends and loved ones 
  • Convenience & flexibility: Pre-tax commuter benefits for transit and parking
  • Growth and community: Opportunities for learning, mentorship, and collaboration with some of the most passionate people in hospitality

Putting Enlightened Hospitality into Practice

Integral to our culture are our six behaviors. Our behaviors guide how we work together.

  • We play to win with humble swagger. Hospitality is a team sport where everyone deserves an opportunity to thrive and belong
  • Turn over the rocks and always be connecting dots to build uplifting experiences and relationships
  • Center the salt shaker with an unwavering commitment to excellence and the values that matter most
  • Write a great next chapter. The road to success is paved with mistakes well-handled
  • Bring a charitable assumption and err on the side of generosity
  • Leave our campsite better than we found it; always responsible for the impact of our wake

*The above represents the expected hourly range for this position. Ultimately, in determining your pay, we'll consider your experience and other job-related factors.

The responsibilities outlined above are not exhaustive. This role may be required to take on other duties or projects as necessary to support organizational goals, in alignment with their skills, experience, and the evolving needs of the business.

#WORKWITHUS

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