Cook - $21 per HOUR
Posted on October 24, 2025
First Watch is a premier daytime dining restaurant brand dedicated to serving fresh, made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Known for its commitment to quality and culinary innovation, First Watch has developed a distinctive "Follow the Sun" philosophy that guides its chef-driven menu. This menu is refreshed five times each year to ensure that guests enjoy the freshest ingredients paired with seasonal flavors at their peak. The restaurant is celebrated for its elevated takes on classic favorites and unique creations such as the Kale Tonic juice, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl, and the signature Million Dollar Bacon. Beyond exceptional food, First Watch is deeply invested in making a positive impact within its communities, demonstrated through charitable contributions surpassing $1.7 million to date from kid’s meal donations.
With over 600 locations spanning 31 states, First Watch has established itself as a leading daytime dining concept and continually receives local and national accolades. It was named the #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards for 2025 and recognized multiple times as the #1 Most Loved Workplace in America, highlighting the brand’s dedication to creating an empowering and satisfying work environment. The company emphasizes a "YOU FIRST" culture, placing employee well-being and happiness at the forefront. This culture ensures that team members work in supportive conditions without night shifts, enjoying the independence to make decisions that elevate guest experiences while fostering a harmonious workplace.
The position offered is for Back-of-the-House team members, specifically cooks, who share a passion for quality food and take pride in delivering safe, high-quality meals in a fast-paced kitchen environment. New cooks receive training tailored to their comfort levels and innate skills, allowing them to grow at their own pace and develop expertise in specific cooking stations. The role accommodates those who are enthusiastic about food preparation but may not be expert chefs from the outset – mastery of intricate cooking skills like egg flipping is encouraged but not mandatory. Communication and teamwork are highly valued traits in this kitchen, alongside a commitment to maintaining a clean, sanitized, and organized workstation. Cooks follow award-winning recipes that emphasize fresh ingredients, contributing to First Watch's culinary excellence.
The company provides a comprehensive benefits package aimed at supporting employees both professionally and personally. Available benefits include health insurance, dental and vision coverage, telemedicine access, flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care, a 401(k) retirement savings program, and generous meal discounts available to employees and their families. Additional perks feature child discount programs, personal coaching, paid time off for eligible employees, tuition reimbursement, and access to wellness applications. First Watch values diversity and inclusion, committing to reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act and encouraging dialogue around workplace needs.
This role offers full-time employment with the opportunity to join a respected and fast-growing brand dedicated to excellence in daytime dining. Candidates looking for a dynamic team environment, a focus on quality, and meaningful community impact will find First Watch an exceptional place to grow their culinary career.
- must be at least 18 years of age
- able to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays
- capable of standing for long periods
- able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
- basic food handling knowledge
- ability to follow recipes and instructions accurately
- comply with health and safety regulations