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Volunteer Cook Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Cook Job Reference Number: 41579 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand ... Voluntary UNUM offering for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity * Discount Program

Cook

Johnston, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Starting hiring pay at: $15.00 As a Cook at Raising Cane's, you will set the pace of the Restaurant ... Access to voluntary benefits through an insurance marketplace, including Medical & Pharmacy, Dental ...

Cook I - 50%

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$17.93/hr

Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe ... Cook I * Appointment Type: Merit * Schedule: Part-time * Work Modality Options: On Campus ...

Cook I - 100%

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$17.93/hr

Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe ... Cook I * Appointment Type: Merit * Schedule: Full-time * Work Modality Options: On Campus ...

Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe ... Cook I * Appointment Type: Merit * Schedule: Part-time * Work Modality Options: On Campus ...

Cook

Johnston, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Starting hiring pay at: $15.00 As a Cook at Raising Cane's, you will set the pace of the Restaurant ... Access to voluntary benefits through an insurance marketplace, including Medical & Pharmacy, Dental ...

Cook

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Starting hiring pay at: $15.00 As a Cook at Raising Cane's, you will set the pace of the Restaurant ... Access to voluntary benefits through an insurance marketplace, including Medical & Pharmacy, Dental ...

Cook

Johnston, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Starting hiring pay at: $15.00 As a Cook at Raising Cane's, you will set the pace of the Restaurant ... Access to voluntary benefits through an insurance marketplace, including Medical & Pharmacy, Dental ...

Cook

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$17/hr

Cook Job Reference Number: 41579 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand ... Voluntary UNUM offering for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity * Discount Program

Cook

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Starting hiring pay at: $15.00 As a Cook at Raising Cane's, you will set the pace of the Restaurant ... Access to voluntary benefits through an insurance marketplace, including Medical & Pharmacy, Dental ...

Cook

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Starting hiring pay at: $15.00 As a Cook at Raising Cane's, you will set the pace of the Restaurant ... Access to voluntary benefits through an insurance marketplace, including Medical & Pharmacy, Dental ...

Cook

Johnston, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Starting hiring pay at: $15.00 As a Cook at Raising Cane's, you will set the pace of the Restaurant ... Access to voluntary benefits through an insurance marketplace, including Medical & Pharmacy, Dental ...

Cook I - 50%

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$17.93/hr

Performs general cooking, food preparation, and serving meals using standardized recipes and ... Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe ...

Cook

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$17/hr

Cook Job Reference Number: 41581 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand ... Voluntary UNUM offering for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity * Discount Program

Cook Job Reference Number: 41596 Employment Type: Part-Time , Onsite Segment: Corrections Brand ... Voluntary UNUM offering for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity * Discount Program

Cook I - 50%

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$17.93/hr

Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe ... Cook I * Appointment Type: Merit * Schedule: Part-time * Work Modality Options: On Campus ...

Cook

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$17/hr

Cook Job Reference Number: 41581 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Education Brand ... Voluntary UNUM offering for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity * Discount Program

Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

The Cook supports the Kitchen Manager and prepares food to serve our residents in our restaurant ... and voluntary products) * Part-time employees (29 or fewer hours per week) are eligible for ...

Performs general cooking, food preparation, and serving meals using standardized recipes and ... Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe ...

Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$16.50/hr

The Cook supports the Kitchen Manager and prepares food to serve our residents in our restaurant ... and voluntary products) * Part-time employees (29 or fewer hours per week) are eligible for ...

Showing results 21-40

Volunteer Cook information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do volunteer cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer cook in Iowa is $15.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer cook?

Volunteer Cooks are individuals who offer their time and culinary skills to prepare meals for organizations or community groups without receiving financial compensation. They typically work in places like shelters, soup kitchens, community centers, or at charitable events. Their main responsibilities include planning menus, preparing and cooking food, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and sometimes serving meals. Volunteer Cooks play a vital role in supporting community nutrition and providing meals to those in need.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Cook, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety practices, and often a food handler’s permit. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, meal planning software, and inventory management systems can be beneficial. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication help create a positive kitchen environment and ensure efficient service. These skills are crucial for preparing nutritious meals safely and efficiently while supporting the mission of community kitchens or nonprofit organizations.

What are some common challenges volunteer cooks face, and how can they be managed effectively?

Volunteer Cooks often work in environments with limited resources and time constraints, such as community kitchens or shelters. They may need to adapt recipes based on available ingredients and dietary restrictions. Effective communication with team members and flexibility are key to overcoming these challenges. Staying organized and preparing in advance can also help ensure smooth meal service and a positive experience for both cooks and those they serve.

What is the difference between Volunteer Cook vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectVolunteer CookKitchen Assistant
Required CredentialsNone typically required; culinary skills preferredNone required; basic food handling knowledge beneficial
Work EnvironmentCommunity kitchens, shelters, food banksCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering services
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, charities, community organizationsRestaurants, hotels, catering companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding volunteer roles in food serviceLearning about support roles in kitchens

Volunteer Cooks typically operate in community or nonprofit settings without formal credentials, focusing on preparing food for those in need. Kitchen Assistants work in commercial environments, assisting with food prep and cleaning. Both roles support kitchen operations but differ mainly in setting and scope of responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Volunteer Cook jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Volunteer Cook job openings:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Cook job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,315 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Cook

Job Reference Number: 41579
Employment Type: Full-Time, Onsite 
Segment:
Education
Brand: Elior-Collegiate-Dining
Location: University of Dubuque - Dining Hall

The Role at a glance:

We are looking to add an experienced cook to work with a highly motivated and energetic kitchen staff. You will have the opportunity to work in a fast-paced, efficient environment and cook delicious meals. If you are driven, passionate about preparing and serving high quality meals, and are looking for an organization that promotes your personal growth, this could be the right role for you. Please read on!

What you'll be doing:
  • Quality and portion control 
  • Food preparation 
  • Creative food presentation 
  • Maintaining kitchen 
  • Ensuring food is stored properly 
  • Following safe food handling policies, procedures and recipes  
What we're looking for:

Must-haves: 

  • At least one years' prior culinary experience in a quality and high-volume establishment with an emphasis on scratch cooking 
  • Working knowledge of proper culinary methods, techniques, and standards.  
  • Excellent attention to detail and the ability to perform multiple tasks in fast-paced environment.  
  • Ability to use various kitchen equipment and tools as well as identify and differentiate food items. 
  • Customer service experience is required. 

Nice-to-haves: 

  • Food handlers' certification 
Compensation Range

$17 an hour

Our Benefits:
  • Medical (FT Employees)
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Voluntary UNUM offering for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity
  • Discount Program
  • Commuter Benefits (Parking and Transit) 
  • EAP
  • 401k
  • Sick Time
  • Holiday Pay (9 paid holidays)
  • Tuition Reimbursement (FT Employees)
  • Paid Time Off 

About Elior Collegiate:

Elior Collegiate Dining is rewriting the rules of campus dining, serving up bold flavors, fresh ideas, and high-impact experiences that fuel student life. We partner with forward-thinking colleges and universities to create vibrant, customized dining programs that spark connection, celebrate culture, and make food a defining part of the college journey.

About Elior-North America:

Elior North America is an equal opportunity employer.  Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to diversity and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities. We take pride in supporting the development of our employees and their skills at all levels and in fostering an environment of growth.

At Elior North America, we are committed to offering growth and advancement opportunities for all of our employees. The valuable skills and experience you've gained with Elior will propel you further in your career, whether with our corporate office or one of our brand segments.

Disclaimer: This job description can be revised  by management as needed.


Elior North America logo

About Elior North America

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Elior North America enhances people's lives through culinary innovation and a commitment to providing exemplary service. Our family of companies, with more than 17,000 employees, provides food services and catering to over 1,500 client accounts in five industry segments across the continental United States. We are proud to be the fifth largest culinary management company in the country and excited to be the fastest growing organization in the industry. We focus on three ingredients for success to differentiate Elior from our competitors and position our company as a disruptor in the markets we serve. To support our ingredients for success and drive our mission and values, we need talented team members throughout our family of companies.

Industry

Food and beverage stores

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2008