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Weekend Cooking Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cooks

Newport News, VA Β· On-site

$15/hr

Must be able to work weekends * AM / PM shifts * Flexible shifts * FREE all you can eat buffet meal ... Maintains the correct temperature of all products during cooking, holding and serving. * Uses the ...

Cook

Fredericksburg, VA Β· On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

... and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards - Food preparation and portioning ... nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need ...

Cook

Manassas, VA Β· On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need - Effective ...

Cook

Richmond, VA Β· On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

... and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards - Food preparation and portioning ... nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need ...

Cook

Fredericksburg, VA Β· On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

... and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards - Food preparation and portioning ... nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need ...

Cook

Waynesboro, VA Β· On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

... and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards - Food preparation and portioning ... nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need ...

Cook

Richmond, VA Β· On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need - Effective ...

Cook

Richmond, VA Β· On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

... and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards - Food preparation and portioning ... nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need ...

Cook

Fredericksburg, VA Β· On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need - Effective ...

Cook

Midlothian, VA Β· On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need - Effective ...

Cook

Mechanicsville, VA Β· On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

... and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards - Food preparation and portioning ... nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need ...

Cook

Ashland, VA Β· On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need - Effective ...

Cook

Midlothian, VA Β· On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

... and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards - Food preparation and portioning ... nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need ...

Cook

Richmond, VA Β· On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need - Effective ...

Cook

Ashland, VA Β· On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

... and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards - Food preparation and portioning ... nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need ...

Cook

Chester, VA Β· On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

... and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards - Food preparation and portioning ... nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need ...

Cook

Fredericksburg, VA Β· On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need - Effective ...

Cook

Fredericksburg, VA Β· On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

... and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards - Food preparation and portioning ... nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need ...

Cook

Leesburg, VA Β· On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need - Effective ...

Cook

Fredericksburg, VA Β· On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays - Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need - Effective ...

Showing results 41-60

Weekend Cooking information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do weekend cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for weekend cooking in Virginia is $16.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is weekend cooking?

Weekend cooking jobs typically involve preparing and serving meals during weekends, often in restaurants, catering services, hotels, or private homes. These positions may include roles such as line cook, prep cook, personal chef, or event caterer. Weekend cooking jobs are ideal for individuals looking for part-time work or extra income, and they often require flexibility, food safety knowledge, and basic culinary skills. Responsibilities can range from food preparation and cooking to cleaning and ensuring kitchen safety standards are met.

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

To thrive as a Weekend Cook, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and experience with meal preparation, often backed by a food handler’s permit or relevant training. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and inventory management tools is typically required. Strong time management, teamwork, and communication skills help ensure smooth operations, especially during busy service hours. These skills are crucial for delivering quality meals efficiently while maintaining a safe and collaborative kitchen environment.

What are some common challenges faced by weekend cooks, and how can they be managed?

Weekend cooks often face the challenge of managing a high volume of orders in a short timeframe, as weekends typically see increased customer traffic. Efficient prep work, time management, and clear communication with other kitchen staff are crucial for maintaining quality and speed. It's also important to adapt quickly to menu changes or special requests, and to stay organized under pressure. Building strong teamwork skills and staying proactive during slower periods can help prevent stress during peak hours.

What is the difference between Weekend Cooking vs Weekend Chef?

AspectWeekend CookingWeekend Chef
CredentialsBasic culinary knowledge, food safety certificationsProfessional culinary training, certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentHome kitchens, small catering events, food blogsRestaurants, catering services, private events
Employer & IndustryIndividuals, small businesses, food mediaRestaurants, catering companies, hospitality industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Weekend Cooking typically refers to individuals preparing food during weekends, often for personal enjoyment, blogging, or small-scale catering. Weekend Chef usually denotes a professional or semi-professional cook working in restaurants or catering services during weekends. While both roles involve culinary skills, Weekend Chefs often have formal training and work in commercial settings, whereas Weekend Cooks may operate more informally or as hobbyists.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Weekend Cooking jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Weekend Cooking job openings:

Infographic showing various Weekend Cooking job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,277 per year, or $17 per hour.

Cooks

Newport News, VA β€’ On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Prepare hot buffet products according to Golden Corral recipes and standards using various kitchen equipment.

  • Maintain proper temperature, freshness, and quality of food items during cooking, holding, and serving.

  • Ensure cleanliness and sanitation of cooking areas, equipment, and utensils, and follow health department laws.


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Free food & snacks
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Competitive salary
  • Flexible schedule

Our franchise organization, BOTH Inc Golden Corral, is currently seeking energetic, friendly GRILL COOKS, FRY COOKS, HOT COOKS, DISPLAY COOKS to join our team!   
  • Part-time and Full-time positions
  • Must be able to work weekends
  • AM / PM shifts 
  • Flexible shifts
  • FREE all you can eat buffet meal every shift
  • Performance raises
  • Advancement opportunities
  • No experience – no problem – we will train
Our Cooks (Hot Cook, Grill Cook, Fry Cook, Display Cook) are responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product specifications.
Food Production:
  • Prepares all hot buffet products according to Golden Corral recipes and procedures.
  • Using the oven, steamer, roaster, smoker, grill, and fryer, the Cook prepares all items according to Golden Corral standards to ensure quality.
  • Ensures that every product is always fresh and hot.
  • If the Buffet Attendant is unavailable, the Cook restocks the items at the Display Cooking Station.
  • Complete use and following of the buffet production system to insure quality and shelf life compliance.
Operational Excellence:
  • Maintains the correct temperature of all products during cooking, holding and serving.
  • Uses the appropriate production guide to maintain an inventory of all hot cook products.
  • Conducts opening and closing administrative procedures.
  • Properly maintains equipment according to the Equipment Maintenance manual.
  • Restocks and rotates food products by using the first-in, first-out method (FIFO).
  • Takes inventory of products and checks build-to with the Manager at the beginning and end of each shift.
Cleanliness:
  • Ensures that that cooking areas and all small wares are clean and checks dishes for cleanliness before using them.
  • Performs duty roster and ensures cleanliness, service, and quality standards are met. .
  • Follows local health department laws.
  • Keeps all cooking equipment, utensils and equipment clean and operational to ensure product quality and sanitation.  
Guest Service:
  • Ensures that cooked foods are always hot and fresh for the guests.
  • Knows and follows position responsibilities as they relate to just-in-time delivery.
  • Is friendly and courteous to guests and assists them with the products.
  • Maintains professional communication at all times.
Position requires standing and walking 3 to 4  hours without a rest break.  Regular, moderate-to-heavy (20-50 lbs.) lifting and carrying; bending and reaching is required.  Work environment requires the use of tools such as tongs and spatulas and a forceful grip is required for the use of these tools.  Work setting is within the restaurant with employee exposed to temperature extremes.   
Thank you for your interest in Golden Corral. Upon completion of your online application, you may be directed to complete an additional online questionnaire that is specific to the position in which you are applying.
The job opening listed on this page has been posted by an independent franchisee of Golden Corral Corporation. Golden Corral Corporation does not hire or employ any individuals at this franchise location. The franchisee will make all decisions with respect to applications for the position listed on this page. The name of the franchisee appears in this job posting. All questions concerning this job opportunity should be directed to the franchisee.