500+ Cook Jobs Across the U.S. - February 2026
If you're looking for Cook jobs, you've come to the right place. OysterLink currently lists 500+ Cook positions across the U.S., in a variety of venues including restaurants, hotels, catering services, and other foodservice establishments.
New Cook job listings are added regularly as employers across the country seek skilled and reliable culinary professionals to join their teams.
Recent Openings for Cooks
There have been 215 jobs posted in the last 10 days, and more openings are frequently added to meet ongoing demand in the foodservice industry.
Cook Salary Across the U.S.
From the job listings we have, the average salary for Cooks across the U.S. is $43,200 per year or $20.8 per hour, varying with location, experience, and establishment type.
Job listings indicate a range between $15,100 per year and $120,000 per year for Cook positions nationwide.
| Lowest wage for Cooks | Average wage for Cooks | Highest wage for Cooks |
|---|---|---|
| $15,100 per year | $43,200 per year or $20.8 per hour | $120,000 per year |
Higher salaries are typically found in upscale restaurants, hotels, or locations with higher costs of living.
Cooks with specialized skills or certifications often earn more and have better job opportunities.
Considering Cook jobs across the U.S., you can find roles that offer competitive pay and room for growth.
How To Apply for Cook Jobs
Applying for Cook jobs is straightforward with OysterLink. Listings include details on pay, hours, employer type, and requirements. You can filter jobs by:
- Experience level
- Full-time, part-time, or seasonal positions
- Location
- Shift type
Employers hiring for Cook roles seek candidates who can start quickly, so submit applications early to increase your chances.
Simply click apply on listings you’re interested in and connect directly with employers.
Why Cook Jobs Are in Demand Across the U.S.
The foodservice industry nationwide experiences steady demand for skilled Cooks to meet consumer needs in various dining establishments.
Here are typical venues where Cook positions are in demand across the country:
| Establishment Type | Typical Roles |
|---|---|
| Restaurants | Line Cook, Prep Cook, Grill Cook |
| Hotels and Resorts | Banquet Cook, Breakfast Cook, Sous Cook staff |
| Catering and Events | Event Cook, Buffet Cook |
| Healthcare Facilities | Cook for patient meals |
The variety of venues and cuisines sustains ongoing hiring needs for Cooks nationwide, offering diverse employment options.
Where Cooks Are in Demand
Here are some of the top employers currently seeking Cooks:
- Brentwood at Elkhart Assisted Living
- Celebration Villa of Hearthstone East
- Celebration Villa of Winter Haven Assisted Living
What To Expect as a Cook
Cook jobs generally include responsibilities such as:
- Preparing ingredients and cooking meals per recipes
- Maintaining cleanliness and organization of kitchen areas
- Following food safety and sanitation standards
- Assisting kitchen staff and maintaining inventory
Cooks often work in fast-paced environments requiring teamwork, attention to detail, and reliability.
Schedules may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on the establishment.
While experience is valuable, many positions offer on-the-job training for newer Cooks.
Cook Job Benefits and Perks
Many Cook positions come with benefits like Retirement Plan, Health Insurance, and much more.
Besides earning a steady income, Cooks often gain culinary skills and opportunities to advance in the foodservice industry.
Explore More Cook Opportunities Nationwide
Aside from the national listings, you can also explore Cook jobs in key metropolitan areas such as:
- New York, NY
- Chicago, IL
- Los Angeles, CA
- Houston, TX
Whether you're searching for Cook jobs near you or open to relocation, OysterLink helps find current, verified roles across the nation.
Useful Resources for Cooks
Here are some useful resources if you're a Cook:
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American Culinary Federation (ACF) | Professional culinary certifications and networking |
| ServSafe | Food safety training and certification programs |
| U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Cooks | Occupation details, outlook, and qualifications |