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Cooks

Cooks are the heart and soul of the culinary world, crafting delicious meals that bring people together and elevate dining experiences. With a growing emphasis on nutrition and sustainability, skilled cooks play a vital role in shaping the food landscape in the UK and beyond.

Cooks

Hospitality & Catering

AI IMPACT

AI EXPOSURE TODAY8

20-YEAR SCENARIO
NOT A FORECAST53%

THE DOOR · ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAYB

STARTING PAY£18,000 - £22,000

PHYSICAL MOATThe work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it.

THE DOOR: ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAY, graded A (easy) to E (extremely hard). A Careermash rule-of-thumb index built from our AI exposure index and the job's moat class. It is not a forecast and not a count of job openings.

AI EXPOSURE TODAY is a Careermash index from 0 to 100 of how exposed this job's everyday tasks are to AI today. We estimate it by matching published research on how people use AI to this job, usually by keyword or subject area, and we lower it where the work is protected (for example by physical, personal or legal requirements). It is not a direct measurement of how much people in this job use AI.

This job holds up well against AI

AI exposure today is low on our index (8), and the work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.

Career progression path

1FIRST STEPJunior CookAs a Junior Cook, you will assist in food preparation and cooking under the guidance of senior chefs. This role is ideal for those starting their culinary journey, providing hands-on experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment.£18,000 - £22,000

2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-Level CookIn a Mid-Level Cook position, you will take on more responsibility, including menu planning and supervising junior staff. This role requires a solid understanding of cooking techniques and the ability to work independently.£25,000 - £30,000

3PEAK CAREERSenior ChefAs a Senior Chef, you will lead the kitchen team, create innovative menus, and ensure the highest standards of food quality and safety. This role is for those who have a passion for culinary excellence and leadership.£35,000+

Real apprenticeship standards

Live UK apprenticeship standards that lead into this career, from the Institute for Apprenticeships register.

L2Production chef12 months typicalnot published

There is more than one way in

You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely. Some employers will take you on here with no formal qualifications at all, if you can show you can do the work.