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Volunteer Cook Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Volunteers of America National Services

Cook

Arlington, VA · On-site

$20.40 - $23.40/hr

Mary Marshall is a community of Volunteers of America National Services, a subsidiary of the ... Education in quantity cooking and therapeutic diets preferred. * Minimum of one year food service ...

AMERICAN HEALTHCARE LLC

Cook

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.49/hr

The Cook is responsible for preparing quality meals for residents. They are involved in direct food ... Voluntary Long/Short-Term Disability * Live Health Online * PTO * Employee Assistance Program (EAP ...

American HealthCare LLC

Cook

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.49/hr

The Cook is responsible for preparing quality meals for residents. They are involved in direct food ... Voluntary Long/Short-Term Disability * Live Health Online * PTO * Employee Assistance Program (EAP ...

AMERICAN HEALTHCARE LLC

Cook

Rich Creek, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.81/hr

If you are a Cook who enjoys ensuring healthy, nutritious meals are available to help our community ... Voluntary Long/Short-Term Disability * Live Health Online * PTO * Employee Assistance Program (EAP ...

American HealthCare LLC

Cook

Rich Creek, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.81/hr

If you are a Cook who enjoys ensuring healthy, nutritious meals are available to help our community ... Voluntary Long/Short-Term Disability * Live Health Online * PTO * Employee Assistance Program (EAP ...

frc

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

The Cook is responsible for preparing daily meals for residents, staff and visitors. They will ... Voluntary insurance (additional life insurance, accident insurance, critical illness, short term ...

frc

Cook

Salem, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

The Cook is responsible for preparing daily meals for residents, staff and visitors. They will ... Voluntary insurance (additional life insurance, accident insurance, critical illness, short term ...

frc

Cook

Salem, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

The Cook is responsible for preparing daily meals for residents, staff and visitors. They will ... Voluntary insurance (additional life insurance, accident insurance, critical illness, short term ...

AMERICAN HEALTHCARE LLC

Cook

King George, VA · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

We're looking for a Cook who takes that mission personally. If you find meaning in crafting healthy ... Voluntary Long/Short-Term Disability * Live Health Online * PTO * Employee Assistance Program (EAP ...

New

American HealthCare LLC

Cook

King George, VA · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

We're looking for a Cook who takes that mission personally. If you find meaning in crafting healthy ... Voluntary Long/Short-Term Disability * Live Health Online * PTO * Employee Assistance Program (EAP ...

Arlington VOA ALR Operating, Inc.

Cook

Arlington, VA

$20.40 - $23.40/hr

Mary Marshall is a community of Volunteers of America National Services, a subsidiary of the ... Education in quantity cooking and therapeutic diets preferred. * Minimum of one year food service ...

Hhs

Cook

Richmond, VA

$17/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $17/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Day/Evening/Night ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

HHS LLC

Cook

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $17/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Day/Evening/Night ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

HHS LLC

Cook

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Culinary experience (cook, cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healt ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

Hhs

Cook

Portsmouth, VA

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Culinary experience (cook, cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healt ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

HHS LLC

Cook

Mechanicsville, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Culinary experience (cook, cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healt ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

Hhs

Cook

Richmond, VA

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Culinary experience (cook, cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healt ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

Hhs

Cook

Richmond, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Culinary experience (cook, cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healt ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

Brookdale Senior Living, Inc.

Cook

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$15.34 - $19.18/hr

Optional voluntary benefits including ID theft protection and pet insurance Full Time Only Benefits ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

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Volunteer Cook information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do volunteer cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer 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 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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Volunteer Cook jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Volunteer Cook job openings:
Volunteer Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Cook job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,054 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Cook

Volunteers of America National Services

Arlington, VA

$20.40 - $23.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Volunteers Of America rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 127 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 771 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Care with Heart. Work with Purpose.

Join Mary Marshall Assisted Living as a Cook in Arlington, VA.  This is more than a job! It’s a paid opportunity to serve others, live our mission, and make a meaningful impact in a healthcare setting. As a compassionate organization, we’re dedicated to serving others and fostering an environment where both our residents and team members thrive.  If you’re ready to grow your career while making a difference, we’d love to connect with you.

Mary Marshall is a community of Volunteers of America National Services, a subsidiary of the Volunteers of America parent organization.  Proudly Great Place to Work® Certified for 8 consecutive years.

Pay Range: $20.40 - $23.40 per hour based on experience.
Schedule: Monday - Thursday 6:00am - 9:00am, and Saturday 6:30am - 6:30pm.

Why You’ll Love It Here

  • Supportive, caring leadership that truly values your voice
  • A positive, team-oriented environment where you can rely on one another
  • A beautiful, welcoming campus you’ll enjoy coming to each day
  • Opportunities for career growth and ongoing development
  • Purpose-driven work that makes a meaningful difference every day

What We Offer

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • 403(b) with discretionary contribution
  • Paid Time Off + Personal Days
  • Life Insurance & Short-Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness incentives (earn up to $350)
  • Get paid early (access up to 50% of earnings)
  • Referral bonuses & scholarship opportunities

What You Bring (Requirements)

  • High School diploma/GED required preferred. Education in quantity cooking and therapeutic diets preferred.

  • Minimum of one year food service experience in a healthcare dietary setting preferred.

  • Must be eighteen (18) years of age.

  • General knowledge of quantity food preparation and portioned serving required.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

The Cook provides quality food service in accordance with all State and Federal regulations and to meet the nutritional and individual needs of the residents.

  • Completes defined food preparation, serving of meals and cleaning duties according to proper procedures, using various dietary equipment and supplies, as assigned by the Director of Food and Nutrition Services and Management Team.
  • Plans and initiates cooking schedule for food preparation to meet meal schedule.
  • Prepares, seasons, cooks and serves meat, main dish, soup and vegetable for assigned meal; ensures appropriate portioned servings according to portion control standards.
  • Prepares nutritional snacks for residents as assigned.
  • Performs other duties or special assignments as directed by the Dietary Director.

About Us
The Mary Marshall Assisted Living Community is a specialized assisted living residence serving adults age 55 and older with intellectual disabilities and mental illness. In partnership with the Arlington County Department of Health and Human Services, we provide essential personal care and supportive services to low-income individuals. Located in beautiful Arlington, just minutes from Washington, D.C., the community also offers convenient access to local parks, cultural landmarks, and a wide range of dining and neighborhood amenities.

At VOANS, we celebrate sharing, encouraging and embracing diversity. Equal employment opportunities are available to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We believe that blending individual strengths and unique personal differences nurtures and supports our organizations’ shared commitment to our mission and creates an inclusive and diverse environment where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to do their personal best.

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