Line Cook / Prep Cook / Kitchen Lead (Independent Contractor)

Line Cook / Prep Cook / Kitchen Lead (Independent Contractor)

Culinary Cultivations – Grand Rapids, MI
Pay: $17–$27 per hour (rates vary by role, experience, client, and location)

Job Description

Build your own schedule, work with great people, and support exciting kitchens across West Michigan.

Culinary Cultivations, Grand Rapids' premier food service and hospitality staffing company, is seeking experienced Line Cooks, Prep Cooks, and Kitchen Leads to join our independent contractor team. Our contractors provide professional back-of-house support to a wide range of clients while maintaining flexibility and control over when and where they work.

This opportunity is ideal for experienced culinary professionals looking to supplement their income without committing to a traditional part-time or full-time role.

About the Role

Team members work as independent contractors, selecting shifts based on their availability from posted opportunities. Shifts vary by client and may include weekdays, evenings, weekends, and special events.

Client types include:

• Colleges and universities

• Hotels and event venues

• Assisted living and healthcare facilities

• Private events and catering clients

Compensation

• Hourly rates typically range from $17–$27/hour

• Rates vary based on:

  • Role (Line Cook, Prep Cook, Kitchen Lead)

  • Experience level

  • Client type and location

• Paid bi-weekly for verified hours worked

Key Responsibilities

• Provide reliable, professional back-of-house support to client kitchens

• Prepare food according to client standards and food safety guidelines

• Work independently or as part of a kitchen team, depending on assignment

• Maintain professionalism, efficiency, and adaptability in varying kitchen environments

This Role Is a Great Fit If You Are

• Dependable and punctual

• Comfortable working in new kitchen environments

• Adaptable and able to switch tasks quickly

• Self-directed and able to work with minimal supervision

• Calm and effective in fast-paced or high-pressure settings

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of professional cooking experience preferred

• Experience in one or more of the following is a plus:

  • Full-service restaurants

  • Catering or event kitchens

  • Assisted living or healthcare kitchens

• Ability to follow food safety standards and kitchen protocols

• ServSafe Food (preferred, not required)

Benefits

• Flexible, self-selected scheduling

• Referral program

• Variety of work environments and shift types

• Opportunity to earn additional income without long-term commitment

Work Location

Multiple client locations throughout West Michigan

Our Values

Culinary Cultivations is built on Kindness, Communication, Trust, Diversity, and Inclusion. We are proud to partner with skilled culinary professionals who represent our team and our clients with professionalism and care.