Cooking jobs in Europe are among the most rewarding opportunities for people passionate about food, hospitality, and culinary arts. With Europe’s booming tourism and diverse food culture, there is always demand for chefs, cooks, kitchen assistants, and catering staff. Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting in the kitchen, Europe offers plenty of options to build a stable and exciting career.
Why choose cooking jobs in Europe
-
Strong demand: Hotels, restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and catering services always need kitchen staff.
-
Entry and advanced roles: From assistant cook positions to executive chef jobs.
-
International exposure: Work with multicultural teams and cuisines.
-
Career growth: Many chefs start in small kitchens and grow into head chefs or open their own restaurants.
-
Perks: Free meals, accommodation (sometimes), and tips in addition to salary.
Requirements for a cooking job
To work as a cook in Europe, you usually need:
-
A valid work permit or visa (for non-EU citizens).
-
Basic to advanced cooking skills depending on the role (training or apprenticeship is a plus).
-
Physical stamina—kitchen shifts can be long and busy.
-
Teamwork and communication skills to coordinate with kitchen staff.
-
Language basics (English or the local language such as French, German, Spanish, or Italian).
? For higher-level chef positions, culinary school certification or proven work experience is often required.
Average salaries for cooking jobs in Europe (2025)
Salaries vary by country, employer, and skill level. Here are the averages:
-
Germany: €1,800–€2,500 per month (head chefs earn €3,000+)
-
France: €1,700–€2,400 per month (Michelin-starred restaurants pay more)
-
Spain: €1,200–€1,800 per month
-
Italy: €1,100–€1,600 per month
-
Netherlands: €2,000–€2,800 per month
-
UK: £1,800–£2,500 per month (London chefs often earn more)
? Tips, free meals, and staff housing can increase the overall value of the job.
Types of cooking jobs in Europe
-
Kitchen assistants / commis chefs – entry-level roles supporting senior cooks.
-
Line cooks – preparing specific dishes or sections of the menu.
-
Sous chefs – second-in-command in the kitchen, assisting head chefs.
-
Head chefs / executive chefs – managing entire kitchen operations.
-
Specialized chefs – pastry chefs, bakers, sushi chefs, grill masters, etc.
Where to find cooking jobs in Europe
-
Job portals: EURES (EU job mobility), Indeed, Glassdoor, Hosco (hospitality jobs).
-
Hotel & restaurant chains: Marriott, Hilton, Accor, Radisson, IHG.
-
Local restaurants and cafés: Many hire directly or through walk-in applications.
-
Recruitment agencies: Specialized in hospitality and culinary placements.
-
Seasonal job sites: Perfect for summer resorts, winter lodges, and cruise ship kitchens.
Tips to get hired quickly
-
Prepare a short CV highlighting cooking experience or training.
-
Show specialization (Italian, French, Asian cuisine, bakery, or pastry).
-
Apply early for seasonal jobs (summer/winter tourism kitchens).
-
Take short culinary or hygiene courses to stand out.
-
Be flexible with shifts—weekends, evenings, and holidays are busiest.
Challenges in cooking jobs
-
Long working hours in high-pressure environments.
-
Physically demanding (standing all day, heat in kitchens).
-
Seasonal contracts in tourist-heavy areas.
-
Language barriers in guest-facing kitchens.
Cooking jobs in Europe are an excellent choice for anyone with a passion for food and hospitality. With roles available for beginners and professionals, the sector offers stable income, growth opportunities, and the chance to work in multicultural environments. Whether you dream of being a head chef in a luxury hotel or gaining experience in a cozy European café, the hospitality industry has plenty of doors open for you.