NOC 63200 — Cooks in Canada
NOC 63200 — Cooks in Canada. Duties, training, hourly wage, and how to find LMIA-friendly cook positions.
About this occupation
Cooks prepare and cook a wide variety of foods. They are employed in restaurants, hotels, hospitals and other health care institutions, central food commissaries, educational institutions and similar establishments.
Also known as
Line cook · First cook · Second cook · Institutional cook
Main duties
- Prepare and cook complete meals or individual dishes and foods.
- Plan menus, determine size of food portions, estimate food requirements and costs.
- Inspect kitchens and food service areas.
- Train staff in preparation, cooking and handling of food.
- Order supplies and equipment.
- Maintain inventory and records of food, supplies and equipment.
Employment requirements
- Completion of secondary school may be required.
- Completion of a three-year apprenticeship program for cooks OR completion of a college program in cooking is usually required.
- Trade certification for cooks is available, though voluntary, in all provinces and territories. Red Seal endorsement is available.
Wage band (Canada)
Reported wages typically range from $16/hr (low) to $28/hr (high), with a median around $20/hr. Confirm the wage band for your specific city on Job Bank Canada.
Where the jobs are
The strongest provinces for this NOC are typically: British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Nova Scotia.
Outlook
Strong, persistent demand across hospitality, hotels, and institutional kitchens. One of the most common LMIA-supported NOCs.
How to position your resume
Use "Cooks" (or one of the equivalent titles above) at the top of each relevant role on your resume — recruiters and ATS systems search by Canadian NOC titles. Pair this with our resume tailoring guide and run your draft through the free ATS checker.
Related guides
Source: National Occupational Classification 2021, Statistics Canada / ESDC. Wages reflect typical Job Bank ranges and vary by region.