To work as a chef or dinner cook, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete on-the-job training.

Education after high school

There are no formal education requirements beyond high school for this occupation. However, to achieve the level of skill required of a chef or cook in a fine restaurant, you need many years of training and experience. You can get training at professional-technical schools, two- or four-year colleges, or special culinary schools. The length of programs ranges from a few months to two years or more.

Culinary training includes courses in menu planning, food preparation, and selection and storage of food. You learn public health rules for handling food. Training includes hands-on work experience. Courses in business management are included in many programs.

Work experience

Experience working as a short-order cook or in a fast food restaurant is good preparation. Working as a kitchen helper or food preparation worker also helps to prepare you to work as a chef or dinner cook. Some chefs and dinner cooks have one to five years of work experience.

On-the-job training

Some chefs and cooks learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. Training includes:

• creating and planning menus;
• selecting and preparing foods; and
• handling food safely.

After training, another worker may supervise your work. Training may last one month to one year.

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.