Job requirements Cook in Canada

Find out what you typically need to work as a cook in Canada. These requirements are applicable to all Cooks (NOC 63200).

Employment requirements

This is what you typically need for the job.

  • Completion of secondary school is usually required.
  • Completion of a three-year apprenticeship program for cooks or completion of college or other program in cooking or food safety or several years of commercial cooking experience may be required.
  • Trade certification is available, but voluntary, in all provinces and territories.
  • Red Seal endorsement is also available to qualified cooks upon successful completion of the interprovincial Red Seal examination.

Source National Occupational Classification

Professional certification and licensing

You might need to get a certification from a regulatory authority before you start working. Find out if this occupation is regulated and contact the regulatory authority to learn about the certification process.

British Columbia

Job title Cook (Professional)
Regulated
Regulatory body: Skilled Trades BC

Manitoba

Job title Cook
Regulated
Regulatory body: Apprenticeship Manitoba

Nova Scotia

Job title Cook
Regulated

Ontario

Job title Institutional Cook
Regulated
Regulatory body: Ontario College of Trades
Job title Cook
Regulated
Regulatory body: Ontario College of Trades
Job title Chef
Regulated
Regulatory body: Ontario College of Trades
Job title Assistant Cook
Regulated
Regulatory body: Ontario College of Trades

Québec

Job title Cook
Regulated
Regulatory body: Emploi Québec

Source Foreign Credential Recognition Program - ESDC

Do you want to work in another province or territory?

If you are already certified to work in a regulated occupation in your province or territory, it will be easier for you to have your certification recognized in another province or territory. See the Workers Mobility's website to learn more.

Labour Market Information Survey
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