To work as a short-order cook, you typically need to:

• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required for this job. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Work experience

Experience working as a cook or kitchen worker in a restaurant is helpful.

On-the-job training

Most short-order cooks learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. Training includes:

• food preparation;
• cooking skills; and
• food handling techniques.

Training may last from one week to a month.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be food service specialists. This military occupation includes cooks. Training lasts nine to 14 weeks, depending on your specialty. Further training occurs on the job.