How much does a short order cook make?

They set out ingredients and check order tickets, then cook eggs, pancakes, fries, or sandwiches—often for several orders at once. Between rushes, they prepare food and clean tools and work surfaces so the station is ready for the next order.

Did you know? A short-order cook may fry eggs and cook fries while juggling several customer orders at the same time.

In the US, cooks usually learn on the job; culinary school is optional, though some employers prefer a high-school diploma. Apprenticeships are another route (often requiring applicants to be 17 or older), and some places require a food-handler certificate.

School needed: High school plus some training

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized

Why does pay differ?

In the US, experience, useful skills, extra training or certification, and the kind of employer can affect a short-order cook’s pay; upscale hotels and restaurants often pay more. Location—especially metro or resort areas—and hours or shifts, including early mornings, nights, weekends, or holidays, also matter.