Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
Institution and cafeteria cooks prepare and cook large quantities of food in settings such as schools, hospitals, prisons, and corporate cafeterias. They work in commercial kitchens where they follow recipes and food safety protocols to feed groups of people efficiently. The role requires managing multiple dishes, timing, and kitchen equipment on a daily basis.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against cooks, institution and cafeteria and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical day involves arriving early to prep ingredients, organizing workstations, and coordinating with other kitchen staff. Cooks monitor cooking times, adjust seasoning, and plate dishes according to specifications. They manage inventory, clean equipment, and ensure food safety standards are met. Work shifts often include breakfast, lunch, or dinner service, with duties varying based on the institution's schedule and menu requirements.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCS. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you appreciate structured environments and established procedures. You're reliable and detail-oriented, focusing on getting tasks done correctly and consistently rather than seeking variety or creative projects.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $45,760 | $49,670 | $58,220 | 9,780 |
| Alaska | $45,740 | $48,580 | $53,470 | 1,430 |
| Massachusetts | $45,080 | $47,790 | $51,650 | 7,430 |
| Hawaii | $41,180 | $47,770 | $59,200 | 1,570 |
| Rhode Island | $40,360 | $46,570 | $48,550 | 1,190 |
| California | $40,240 | $46,390 | $52,060 | 31,660 |
| Vermont | $41,920 | $46,370 | $48,620 | 1,330 |
| Connecticut | $39,960 | $46,120 | $48,990 | 4,500 |
| New York | $38,750 | $45,880 | $51,530 | 17,670 |
| District of Columbia | $39,980 | $45,450 | $46,950 | 1,500 |
| New Hampshire | $39,820 | $45,370 | $49,500 | 1,720 |
| New Jersey | $37,590 | $44,520 | $48,090 | 7,490 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Fundamentals Pastry Cook (CFPC) — American Culinary Federation, Inc.
- Certified Fundamentals Cook (CFC) — American Culinary Federation, Inc.
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against cooks, institution and cafeteria and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 35-2012.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.