Cook - Join the Team!
Posted on October 24, 2025
First Watch is a leading Daytime Dining restaurant chain renowned for its made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings crafted from the freshest ingredients. Operating over 600 locations across 31 states, First Watch has solidified a reputation for delivering an exceptional culinary experience centered on quality, hospitality, and community engagement. Guided by its unique "Follow the Sun" culinary philosophy, the menu rotates five times annually to highlight seasonal, high-quality flavors, providing customers with an elevated twist on classic favorites such as Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl, and the signature Million Dollar Bacon. The company is committed not only to great food but also to fostering positive social impact, having donated over $1.7 million through its kid's meal charity program. Recognized widely for excellence, First Watch has earned hundreds of local awards for "Best Breakfast" and "Best Brunch" and was voted 2025's #1 Best Breakfast and 2024's #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute.
At First Watch, the employee experience is a top priority, embodied in the company’s YOU FIRST culture that emphasizes putting employees first every day. The company prides itself on a supportive work environment that avoids night shifts altogether and offers staff the independence to make decisions that enhance guests' breakfast, brunch, and lunch experiences. The Back-of-the-House team members, including cooks, play a crucial role in upholding First Watch’s standard for quality food by treating each dish as if they were personally signing it. New cooks receive training tailored to their comfort levels and innate skills, making the job accessible even to those new to culinary arts. The role involves adhering to award-winning recipes curated by a chef, maintaining sterile, organized workstations, and collaborating effectively within a fast-paced kitchen environment. At least 18 years of age is required for candidates wishing to join the culinary team.
First Watch offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employees’ well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health insurance, dental and vision coverage, telemedicine access, flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care, 401(k) retirement savings plans, a substantial meal discount for employees and their families, child discount programs, employee assistance programs, and backup care options for children and elders. Additional perks include tuition reimbursement, insurance benefits beyond standard health coverage, wellness app access, and exclusive shopping and event discounts. These offerings reinforce First Watch’s commitment to making the workplace a happy, empowering, and rewarding environment for all its staff members.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a thriving, recognized leader in the daytime dining sector that values its employees and dedicates itself to delivering exceptional food and service. Whether you are an aspiring cook starting your culinary journey or an experienced professional seeking a company with a supportive culture and growth opportunities, First Watch offers a fulfilling role in the foodservice industry with a strong focus on quality and community impact.
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Availability for flexible scheduling
- Commitment to maintaining cleanliness and food safety standards
- Ability to follow detailed recipes
- Physical stamina for standing and movement during shifts