Short Order Cook

Job Skills

Certain personal attributes are important for short-order cooks to possess. These include the ability to work quickly and efficiently, a well-developed sense of taste and smell, good personal hygiene, and a willingness to work with a team. Familiarity with a foreign language may also prove useful in communicating with other workers.

Income

In 2002, short-order cooks earned a median hourly wage of $7.82. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10 percent, who earned less than $5.93 per hour, and the highest 10 percent, who earned more than $11.25 per hour. The highest median hourly earnings were found in full-service restaurants, and the lowest were found in limited-service eating places.

Training and Education

Most short-order cook positions require little, if any, training or education. Entry-level positions do not require a high-school diploma; however, a diploma could be beneficial for those interested in a career as a cook. Most short-order cooks are trained on the job. Training ranges from basic sanitation and safety, to food handling and cooking techniques.

Employment

Out of the nearly 3 million culinary jobs in 2002, about 227,000 people were employed as short-order cooks.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of short-order cooks is expected to increase at a rate faster than the average. As the pace of life continues to speed up for many people, they will continue to demand high-quality food served at a convenient pace.

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