Cook Job Description [Updated for 2025]

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A Cook, also sometimes called a Line Cook, prepares ingredients and dishes for a food service establishment. Your Cook job description may mention several core duties, including prepping ingredients for the line, following recipes and preparing dishes during service.

Cook duties and responsibilities

Cooks are a major part of the kitchen hierarchy in food service businesses. While Chefs often run the kitchen, Cooks are responsible for the preparation, cleaning and sanitizing and organizational work that helps keep the kitchen running smoothly.

A typical Cook job description may include these duties and responsibilities:

Quality check ingredients and prepared products to be used during service
Follow recipes accurately
Prepare food using various appliances and equipment
Maintain a clean, safe and sanitized work area
Organize equipment, utensils and other tools prior to service
Participate in the garnishing and presentation of dishes
Oversee opening and closing duties for each assigned shift
Clean and sanitize work areas

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Cook Job Description Examples

Example 1

Position Overview:
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Line Cook to join our culinary team. The ideal candidate will bring culinary passion, attention to detail, and a commitment to consistently delivering exceptional dishes to our guests.

Responsibilities:
- Prepare and execute menu items according to our recipes, presentation standards, and quality guidelines.
- Collaborate with kitchen team members to ensure timely and efficient food preparation during service.
- Maintain a clean and organized work station, adhering to food safety and sanitation standards.
- Assist in ingredient prep, portion control, and maintaining appropriate stock levels.
- Contribute creative ideas for daily and seasonal specials.
- Communicate effectively with fellow cooks, sous chefs, and other team members.
- Be able to adapt to high-pressure situations and busy service periods.

Qualifications:
- Previous experience as a line cook in a fast-paced restaurant environment is preferred.
- Strong culinary skills and knowledge of cooking techniques.
- Attention to detail in presentation, flavor, and consistency.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented kitchen.
- Knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices.
- Flexibility to work different shifts, including weekends and evenings.
- Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and a passion for culinary arts.

Benefits:
- Competitive compensation based on experience and performance.
- Opportunity to work in a dynamic and creative culinary environment.
- Learning and growth opportunities within our kitchen team.

*Application Process:*
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume to Chef Tiny at [website]; (770) 609-9869
1201 Restaurant is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

Join our culinary team and contribute to creating memorable dining experiences!

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $17.00 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

Flexible schedule

Experience level:

1 year
2 years

Restaurant type:

Casual dining restaurant

Shift:

Day shift
Evening shift
Morning shift

Weekly day range:

Monday to Friday
Rotating weekends
Weekends as needed

Experience:

Restaurant experience: 3 years (Preferred)

Shift availability:

Day Shift (Preferred)
Night Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

Atlanta, GA 30318 (Required)

Job-related location requirement:

Candidates must be within a 25-mile Location: In person

Example 2

Days:Saturday & Sunday, and either a half day on Friday's, or a half day on Monday's will be discussed upon hire.
Hours: Roughly 35 a week

Summary of Job Duties

Under general supervision prepares food items of sufficient quality and quantity for the dining room, handling food in accordance with sanitary standards and recognized food preparation standards.

Essential Functions

1.Prepares and serves meals that are properly cooked, tasty, attractive, and nutritious within set time frames following standardized recipes.*

2.Properly uses and cleans all equipment necessary for all aspects of the job.*

3.Utilizes quality control regarding food temperatures, thawing, dating, and labeling stored foods and maintaining refrigerated foods and frozen foods at proper temperatures.*

4.Ensures the cleanliness and sanitation of the cook areas, maintains sanitary standards for the handling, transportation and storage of food.*

5.Maintains a neat and clean appearance ensures that clothes are clean and safe.*

6.Conducts work tasks safely and in compliance with the facility safety program and infection control policies.*

*Non-Essential Functions

1.Interacts with residents and staff as needed to facilitate quality service.*

2.Gives input to supervisor regarding new programs to enable success in dining services and food preparation.*

3.Provides effective and courteous service to all residents, guests, and co-workers. *
4.Performs other related work as required.*

Job Requirements

1.Has knowledge of standard methods, materials, procedures, and regulations of food preparation and service.*

2.Understands the potential health hazards of the food preparation process.*

3.Understands food values, dietetics, and nutrition as required for the proper menu schedules.*

4.Understands basic food service policies, procedures, and techniques.*

5.Ability to operate or handle and clean a variety of kitchen tools and appliances.*

6.Ability to exert moderate physical effort in medium work requiring bending, reaching, stretching, lifting, grasping, and being on feet constantly.*

7.Ability to use independent judgment in routine situations, such as conducting work tasks safely and in compliance with the facility safety program, determining what items are needed for menu and meal preparation.*

8.Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language.*

9.Ability to refer to menus, recipe books, cookbooks, and diet manual as needed.*

10.Ability to verbally communicate with residents, supervisor, and co-workers in an effective manner.

*11.Must have current Food handler s permit.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid sick time
Paid time off
Vision insurance

Restaurant type:

Casual dining restaurant

Shift:

Day shift
Evening shift
Morning shift

Weekly day range:

Every weekend
Weekend availability

COVID-19 considerations:
All staff must have masks on inside the building, be fully vaccinated, and have their temperature taken upon arrival to the Location: One location

Example 3

At Oyna Natural Foods

We are innovativein bringing our product, Kuku, a Persian-style frittata, to the United States market in a packaged goods format for the first time.

We are intentionalin our mission for introducing ethnically diverse foods that are convenient, fresh and healthy.

We are inspirationalin our commitment to making our product accessible to all and educating our consumers.

Details of the Role

Our team at Oyna Natural Foods is in search of a dynamic person to fill the role of Lead Production Cook and Food Demonstrator for our company. This role is a dual-focused role in that two days a week you will be prepping, cooking and packaging. While on the other 3 days, you will be setting up sampling stations in partner retailers as a Brand Ambassador.

The role of Lead Production Cook and Food Demonstrator is an hourly position with a forecasted schedule of 32 hours in a work week. The schedule for this role is Wednesday through Sunday. In addition to a consistent schedule, This position will be offered a free lunch during production days, and all of the Oyna Natural Foods will be available for 50% off.

Join our team and become a part of our growing brand. This crucial member of our team will have a once in a lifetime opportunity to be a part of a mission-driven startup, as we spread the message and product of Oyna Natural Foods.

Overall Responsibilities

Maintaining the production station to ensure that quality standards are consistently met
Championing the production process of Kuku
Manage the food inventory process in accordance to company standard
Remain aware of potential food allergens and maintain food safety
Representing the Oyna Natural Foods brand to all stakeholders
Communicating the value of Oyna Natural Foods to potential customers, vendors and partners
Attend retail stores that are partners of Oyna Natural Foods to showcase our products
Create visually appealing displays in retail spaces, farmers markets and other designated locations to present the product offerings of Oyna Natural Foods.

Other duties as assigned.

Role Expectations

Willingness to travel
Weekend work is expected
Match the same passion that we do for our product offerings

Experience Expected

ServSafe certified at time of hire, or obtained within 30 days of hire.
Clear understanding of food allergens, food safety and kitchen best practices
Clear communication style with an emphasis on relationship building
Dynamic personality that has an understanding of the dual-aspects of this open position

Oyna Natural Foods provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount

Experience level:

1 year

Shift:

8 hour shift
Day shift
Evening shift
Morning shift

Weekly day range:

Every weekend

Ability to commute/relocate:

San Francisco, CA 94110: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work Location: In person

Example 4

JOB Requirements

To include but not limited to

Providing and maintaining high quality standards and procedures in preparing and serving all food.

Maintaining solid knowledge of all food products and is able to skillfully apply culinary techniques.

Responsible for preparation of all aspects of restaurants foods, hot and cold; including banquets and special events.

Ensuring that all food quality meets specifications and guarantees.

Maintaining a solid knowledge, understanding and preparation of base stocks and soups.

Regularly restocks all kitchen supplies and food items required for service.

Properly labeling and dating all products to ensure safekeeping and sanitation.

Maintains cooling logs using 6-hour cooling process.

Keeping the kitchen, a clean, safe and sanitary environment in which to work; making sure all kitchen sanitation standards are met.

Assisting the Chefs in all health, safety, and sanitation procedures

Assisting in lowering all food costs and wastes.

Ensuring all products are rotating on a first-in, first-out philosophy.

Ensuring all requisitions are processed properly and placed in designated area.

Assisting as needed in execution of service.

Maintains a solid menu knowledge and attention to detail with plate presentation.

Maintaining a high level of professionalism

Working as a team, assisting all guests and employees needs and inquiries.

Effectively communicating with management, chefs and service staff in order to fulfill and address any issues or needs requested by guests and or other employees.

Following all procedures and policies set forth by the company, division and department.

Following all health and safety regulations.

Qualifications: (Include equipment knowledge/use)

2 Years minimum experience in a similar position preferred.

Basic comprehension of English oral and written language

Ability to read and measure recipes.

Able to apply basic knife skills required for preparation.

Knowledge of weights and measures.

Exhibits a basic knowledge, understanding and application of various cooking techniques.

Basic knowledge of cooking utensils and equipment, pots, pans, dish ware, silverware, glassware, food slicing machine, knives, oven, grill/stove burners, microwave appliances, brazier, steam kettles

Experience with interior of hotels, in restaurants and kitchen areas, with exposure to humidity, steam and extreme temperatures.

Exposure to hazardous cleaning chemicals.

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Ability to maintain a clean and organized work environment.

Knowledge of health, safety and sanitation rules and regulations

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $15.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)
Dental insurance
Employee discount
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance

Shift:

8 hour shift
Day shift
Evening shift

Weekly day range:

Monday to Friday
Weekend availability

Ability to commute/relocate:

Las Vegas, NV 89158: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

Restaurant experience: 2 years (Preferred)

Shift availability:

Day Shift (Preferred)
Night Shift Location: One location

Example 5

We are looking for an ambitious Prep Cook to assist in the preparation of delicious dishes in the kitchen. You'll perform routine kitchen tasks such as setting up workstations and ingredients, so that food can be prepared according to recipes. A great prep cook will be quick and diligent and willing to improve on the job. You will be deft and able to follow instructions as well as all health and safety rules in the kitchen. The ideal candidate will also be able to function in a fast-paced, busy environment as a part of a team. Responsibilities

Follow the prep list created by chefs to plan duties
Label and stock all ingredients on shelves so they can be organized and easily accessible
Measure ingredients and seasonings to be used in cooking
Prepare cooking ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables, cutting meat etc.
Undertake basic cooking duties such as reducing sauces, parboiling food etc.
Prepare simple dishes such as salads, entrees etc.
Maintain a clean and orderly kitchen by washing dishes, sanitizing surfaces, taking out trash etc.
Ensure all food and other items are stored properly
Comply with nutrition and sanitation guidelines
Perform other kitchen duties as assigned
Covering am cook shiftsSkills
Able to cook eggs to order
Proven experience as prep cook / am cook
Knowledge of health and safety rules in a kitchen
Manual dexterity able to operate cutting tools and kitchen utensils
A team player with good communication skills
Patient with an ability to stay positive under pressure
Very good physical condition and endurance
High school diploma or equivalent is desirable; Training from a culinary school will be an assetJob Type: Full-timePay: $13.77 - $16.00 per hour Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Disability insurance
Employee discount
Flexible schedule
Flexible spending account
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Referral program
Tuition reimbursement
Vision insurance Physical Setting:
Casual dining restaurant
Fast casual restaurant Schedule:
8 hour shift
Day shift
Evening shift
Holidays
Weekend availabilityCOVID-19 considerations: Must have Covid-19 vaccine or obtain with 30 days of employmentShift availability:
Day Shift (Preferred)
Night Shift Location: One location

Example 6

Don Camaron in Miami, FL is looking for one line cook to join our 49 person strong team. We are located on 501 Nw 37th Ave. Our ideal candidate is a self-starter, punctual, and reliable. Responsibilities Set up and stock stations with all necessary supplies Chop vegetables, prepare sauces and other food preparation. Cook menu items in cooperation with the rest of the kitchen staff Clean up station and take care of leftover food Stock inventory Qualifications Cooking experience or Back of the House experience preferred Able to meet all scheduling commitments Able to anticipate needs of others in the kitchen and proactively work to meet those needs *Strong attention to detail We are looking forward to reading your application. Available shifts and compensation: We have available shifts all days of the week. Compensation is $12.00/hour. About Don Camaron: Don Camaron in Hialeah, FL is looking for an individual to join our strong team. Our ideal candidate is attentive, ambitious, and hard-working. By applying to this job, you agree to receive periodic text messages from this employer and Homebase about your pending job application. Opt out anytime. Msg & data rates may apply. Powered by Homebase. Free employee scheduling, time clock and hiring Type: Full-time

Example 7

Raising Stars Learning Center in Rincon, GA is looking for one(1) part-time cook to join our team. We are located on 121 Waterford Ct. Our ideal candidate is a self-starter, motivated, and engaged. This position starts at 2p-6p Monday- Friday Must be willing to work some days preparing all meals when needed. Serious Applicants ONLY Responsibilities Set up workstations Cook dishes to business standards Follow health and safety guidelines Must be able to prepare meals for children being served Must have basic computer skills Other duties assigned Qualifications Proven working experience as a cook Familiarity with kitchen equipment and utensils Strong attention to detail Ability to listen and communicate effectively We are looking forward to receiving your application. Thank you. Available shifts and compensation: Available shifts all days except Sundays and Saturdays. Compensation is $8.50 - $9.00/hour. About Raising Stars Learning Center: Raising Stars Learning Center is a State certified childcare center. We provide well rounded programs which teaches through play and encourage learning through experience. Children are encouraged to explore and discover their creativity, gain independence, problem solving skills, muscle development and self help skills. Our purpose is to provide your child with a safe, clean and loving learning environment. All teachers and staff show love and respect, while providing children the opportunity to interact with others during different activities and throughout the day. By applying to this job, you agree to receive periodic text messages from this employer and Homebase about your pending job application. Opt out anytime. Msg & data rates may apply. Powered by Homebase. Free employee scheduling, time clock and hiring Type: Part-time

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What does a Cook do?

Cooks work to prepare food served at restaurants, hotels, cafes, resorts, hospitals, schools and casinos. They may even work on cruise ships or in private residences. Cooks can be tasked with preparing a wide range of food. Some venues may be quick service, while others require cooks to have a working knowledge of fine dining recipes and standards.

Employers may ask Cooks to prepare food in large quantities for events with a buffet setup. For example, a workplace that provides lunch may serve several hundred employees daily. Service preparation may include making special meals that take dietary restrictions and allergies into account.

Many Cooks have specialized duties or an expanded title that reflects employer-specific job expectations and the needs of that particular business. For instance, a Prep Cook may only work prior to the shift or off the line during service to prepare ingredients used by the Line Cooks and Chef.

Cook skills and qualifications

Whether they’re using their culinary knowledge to make dishes or shopping and stocking inventory to be well-prepared, Cooks need a variety of hard and soft skills to be successful, including interpersonal skills.

Your cook job descriptions might include some or all of these skills and qualifications:

In-depth knowledge of food safety procedures and cleaning and sanitization standards
Ability to keep calm under pressure
Strong attention to detail and accuracy when creating and replicating dishes
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Proficient knife handling and the ability to complete detailed culinary tasks safely and efficiently
Understanding of common ingredients, food preparation and cooking techniques
Ability to work well with other kitchen staff, including the Sous-Chef, Dishwasher and Line Cook
Strong verbal communication skills

Cook experience requirements

Experience requirements for a Cook often depend on the nature of the open position. For example, a Cook in a casual eatery who will work under more experienced Line Cooks and Executive Chefs may need little to no experience.

A Cook at a fine-dining establishment or one who is expected to take on some leadership and administrative duties may need experience in roles requiring oversight of team members.

Cook education and training requirements

Formal education isn’t usually required for Cook positions, making it well-suited for skills-first hiring. Many Cooks gain experience by working in kitchen roles such as Prep Cook, Kitchen Assistant or Dishwasher.

Your Cook job description may specify an interest in applicants who have completed voluntary culinary training. Optional upskilling opportunities can include a culinary diploma from a vocational school or a food safety certification, such as ServSafe. Some community colleges and culinary schools also offer short-term programs in cooking fundamentals and kitchen operations.

Cook salary expectations

Common salary: 16.15 HOURLY
Typical salaries range from 7.25 - 34.20 HOURLY
Find more information on Indeed Salaries

*Indeed data – 2025-10-01

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Cook job description isn’t quite what you’re looking for, check out these job description guides created for related positions:

Cook job description FAQS

Who do Cooks report to?

In most kitchens, a Cook reports to a more experienced kitchen employee, such as a Sous Chef or Head Chef. They may also report directly to the Executive Chef. Cooks tasked with working a specific station in a larger restaurant may work under the direct supervision of a Chef de partie (Station Chef). Cooks who work in smaller restaurants, for a catering company, or in a private home may only report to the business owner.

How important are soft skills for a Cook?

Cook job descriptions often include many technical skills, but soft skills are also important. Cooks need to be able to communicate, work as part of a team and solve problems under pressure. Being adaptable and having robust time management skills can help Cooks shift focus mid-shift and accomplish tasks on time. Attention to detail is also valuable, especially when assessing ingredient quality and preparing dishes for service.

What’s the difference between a Cook and a Chef?

A Cook is anyone who is hired to prepare food. They may have little experience. A Chef is more likely to have comprehensive culinary training, including practical experience and formal culinary education. Cooks may work one specific station and are frequently still learning their craft. Chefs are often masters of a specific cuisine and take on more managerial tasks like scheduling and paying staff, ordering products and developing recipes.

Three individuals are sitting at a table with a laptop, a disposable coffee cup, notebooks, and a phone visible. Two are facing each other, while the third’s back is to the camera. The setting appears to be a bright room with large windows.

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Cook Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Cook duties and responsibilities

Cook Job Description Examples

Example 1

Example 2

Example 3

Example 4

Example 5

Example 6

Example 7

Build your Cook job description in minutes.

What does a Cook do?

Cook skills and qualifications

Cook experience requirements

Cook education and training requirements

Cook salary expectations

Cook salary expectations

Job description samples for similar positions

Cook job description FAQS

Who do Cooks report to?

How important are soft skills for a Cook?

What’s the difference between a Cook and a Chef?

Hire your next Cook today.

Job Description Examples

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Cook Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Cook duties and responsibilities

Cook Job Description Examples

Example 1

Example 2

Example 3

Example 4

Example 5

Example 6

Example 7

Build your Cook job description in minutes.

What does a Cook do?

Cook skills and qualifications

Cook experience requirements

Cook education and training requirements

Cook salary expectations

Cook salary expectations

Job description samples for similar positions

Cook job description FAQS

Who do Cooks report to?

How important are soft skills for a Cook?

What’s the difference between a Cook and a Chef?

Hire your next Cook today.

Job Description Examples

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