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Volunteer Cooking 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

$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

$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

Follows cleaning schedule of equipment and areas as assigned, to include walls, floors and cooking ... Voluntary insurance (additional life insurance, accident insurance, critical illness, short term ...

frc

Cook

Salem, VA

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Follows cleaning schedule of equipment and areas as assigned, to include walls, floors and cooking ... Voluntary insurance (additional life insurance, accident insurance, critical illness, short term ...

frc

Cook

Salem, VA

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Follows cleaning schedule of equipment and areas as assigned, to include walls, floors and cooking ... Voluntary insurance (additional life insurance, accident insurance, critical illness, short term ...

AMERICAN HEALTHCARE LLC

Cook

King George, VA

$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 ...

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 · On-site

$17/hr

... cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healthcare foodservice) Physical ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

HHS LLC

Cook

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17/hr

... cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healthcare foodservice) Physical ... 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

... cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healthcare foodservice) Physical ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

Hhs

Cook

Richmond, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healthcare foodservice) Physical ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

Hhs

Cook

Richmond, VA

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healthcare foodservice) Physical ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

Hhs

Cook

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

... cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healthcare foodservice) Physical ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

HHS LLC

Cook

Mechanicsville, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

... cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healthcare foodservice) Physical ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

HHS LLC

Cook

Richmond, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... cooking, line cook, commercial kitchen, fast food, dietary cook, healthcare foodservice) Physical ... Voluntary Life * Safety Incentive Program Important to Know * Applicants must pass a background ...

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All JobsVolunteer Cooking JobsVolunteer Cooking Jobs in Virginia

Volunteer Cooking information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$18

$33

How much do volunteer cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer cooking in Virginia is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $20.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you do if you like volunteering cooking?

Volunteer cooking offers roles such as kitchen assistant, food prep worker, or meal server in community kitchens, shelters, or food banks. These positions typically require basic cooking skills, teamwork, and adherence to safety and hygiene standards, and they often involve flexible schedules to accommodate volunteer availability.

What is volunteer cooking?

Volunteer Cooking positions involve preparing, cooking, and sometimes serving meals for individuals or groups in need, such as at shelters, food banks, community centers, or charity events. Volunteers may help with meal planning, food prep, cooking, and cleanup, all under the guidance of an organization or lead chef. These roles are ideal for people who enjoy cooking and want to make a positive impact in their community by helping to address food insecurity or support special events.

What is the difference between Volunteer Cooking vs Volunteer Food Service Worker?

AspectVolunteer CookingVolunteer Food Service Worker
CredentialsNone typically required, basic cooking skillsNone typically required, customer service skills beneficial
Work EnvironmentCommunity kitchens, shelters, food banksFood service settings like soup kitchens, cafeterias
Job FocusPreparing meals, cookingServing food, assisting guests
Industry UsageFood preparation and community supportFood service and hospitality

Volunteer Cooking primarily involves preparing and cooking meals in community settings, focusing on food preparation. Volunteer Food Service Worker typically includes serving food and assisting guests in food service environments. Both roles support community needs but differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a volunteer cook?

To thrive as a Volunteer Cook, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and often a food handler’s certificate. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and health regulations is typically required. Strong teamwork, flexibility, and effective communication help you work efficiently and adapt to varied kitchen environments. These skills ensure safe, high-quality meal preparation and a positive experience for both volunteers and those they serve.

What are some common challenges faced by volunteer cooks, and how can they be overcome?

Volunteer cooks often work in fast-paced environments with limited resources and diverse teams. One common challenge is adapting to varying kitchen setups and ingredient availability, which requires flexibility and creativity in meal planning. Communication and teamwork are also essential, as volunteer cooks frequently collaborate with other volunteers and coordinators to ensure meals are prepared safely and efficiently. Building strong relationships and remaining adaptable are key to overcoming these challenges and contributing positively to the team.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Virginia are:
Volunteer Cooking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Cooking 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 $39,463 per year, or $19 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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