Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
O*NET 35-2012.00 · SOC 35-2012
Projected Growth
+5%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$38k
per year
Education Level
Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)
Education & How to Get In
🎓
Job Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)
Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria 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.
Work Environment
Primary Setting
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Work Style
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Realistic (Doers)5.9
Conventional (Organizers)4.3
Social (Helpers)3.2
Enterprising (Persuaders)3.2
Artistic (Creators)2.0
Investigative (Thinkers)1.8
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