Institutional Cook

Code: 35-2012.00

Also known as: Cafeteria Cook, Chef, Cook, Dietary Cook, Dinner Cook, Food Service Specialist, Food Service Worker, Prep Cook (Preparatory Cook), School Cook, Sous Chef

Description: Institutional Cooks are responsible for the freshness and quality of food created in mass quantities for schools, hospitals, cafeterias and other locations. Although some Cooks usually have some short-term on-the-job training, no formal education is required. Due to the competitive nature of the business, some Cooks may have attended culinary school.

Institutional Cook

Typical wages


10% $19,860
25% $23,320
Median $28,650
75% $35,020
90% $41,580
10% $9.55
25% $11.21
Median $13.78
75% $16.84
90% $19.99

Projected employment

Estimated Employment
(2019 year)
420,200
Projected Employment
(2029 year)
428,700
Percent Change +0 %
Projected Annual Job Openings 55,800