Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
O*NET 35-2012.00 · SOC 35-2012
Cook is a solid career choice. Median pay is $37k a year with +2.8% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 62,900 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Prepare large batches of soups, entrees, and side dishes.
- →Follow standardized recipes scaled for high-volume cafeteria service.
- →Monitor food temperatures using thermometers to ensure safety compliance.
- →Rotate and label food items in walk-in coolers properly.
- →Serve food to students or employees from cafeteria line stations.
Education & How to Get In
Cook roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Cook involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Cook?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Cook Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria is projected to grow 2.8% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·33% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Cook make?
The median Cook earns $37k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Cook jobs?
Our model puts Cook at 46 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 33% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Cook a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 2.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 62,900 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Cook?
Most Cook roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Cook?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Cook career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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