How to become a Cook
Becoming a cook does not require any formal education. However, many employers prefer hiring cooks with the right blend of formal knowledge and experience. Below are some distinct requirements that top-notch restaurants insist on.
- Obtain a two-year or four-year culinary degree. Some employers, however, only require that a cook has proficiency in food safety, hospitality, advanced cooking, and sanitation. Covering these units takes barely two years.
- Acquire advanced training to have a good grasp of skills needed for fast-paced work environments. Once absorbed, the new hire can enroll for apprenticeship programs for technical training alongside the on-the-job experience. The minimum entry point for such programs is a high school diploma or its equivalence. A cook also needs to undergo extensive training under a chef to gain culinary education that is equivalent to a degree.
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Typical qualifications for a Cook
Skills employers are looking for
About Cooking
Experience preparing food typically by combining, mixing, and heating ingredients.
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About Food industry
Knowledge of or experience working in the industry which focuses on the processing, preparation, and serving of food.
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About Food safety
Experience preparing, serving, and cooking food safely and hygienically.
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About Meal preparation
Experience with preparing meals for others.
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About Kitchen experience
Experience working with food in a kitchen.
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Career progression for Cook
Education levels for Cooks
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| High school diploma or GED | 5.0% |
| Associate's degree | 4.0% |
| Bachelor's degree | 3.0% |
| Middle school education | 2.0% |
| Master's degree | 1.0% |
| Doctoral degree | 0.0% |
Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $19,800 |
| 4 - 8 | $21,700 |
| 8 - 12 | $22,800 |
| 12 - 16 | $23,200 |
| 16 - 20 | $23,400 |
| 20 - 24 | $24,000 |
Common questions about career advices for a Cook
Do you need any specific certifications to become a cook?
While it is not mandatory to get a certification to be a cook but obtaining ServSafe Food Handler certificate is recommended if you wish to work in a restaurant.
What soft skills do cooks need to possess?
Set of skills that make a high profile cook:
- The ability to manage kitchen roles, create and implement menus
- Possessing dexterity and organisational skills
- Attention to detail and fast-paced decision-making skills
- Culinary expertise along with high creativity
- Basic knife skills and multitasking capability
Do you have to go to school to be a cook?
No, there is no formal educational required to be a cook.
