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Retail

Cook, Institution and Cafeteria

Prepare and cook large quantities of food for institutions, such as schools, hospitals, or cafeterias.

Annual openings

1,637

Median wage

$42,500

Typical education

Education not reported

Growth 2026–2032

+8%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

Education not reported

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Monitor and record food temperatures to ensure food safety.
  2. Cook foodstuffs according to menus, special dietary or nutritional restrictions, or numbers of portions to be served.
  3. Rotate and store food supplies.
  4. Clean and inspect galley equipment, kitchen appliances, and work areas to ensure cleanliness and functional operation.
  5. Wash pots, pans, dishes, utensils, or other cooking equipment.
  6. Direct activities of one or more workers who assist in preparing and serving meals.
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