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 and/or license from a regulatory authority (or become registered as an apprentice) before you start working. Find out if this occupation is regulated and contact the regulatory authority to learn about the certification and/or licensing process.

Get your foreign credentials recognized in Canada

If you are a newcomer and want to work in a regulated job, you must have your training, education or work experience from another country assessed. This shows if your qualifications are recognized in Canada. This process is called foreign credential recognition.

The steps to get a license or certification are different in each province or territory. You will need to contact the regulatory authority where you want to work to learn what to do.

Did you know?

Getting your qualifications recognized and obtaining a professional license or certification in Canada can take time, money, and effort. If you need help, you can:

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: Skilled Trades Ontario
Job title Cook
Regulated
Regulatory body: Skilled Trades Ontario
Job title Chef
Regulated
Regulatory body: Skilled Trades Ontario
Job title Assistant Cook
Regulated
Regulatory body: Skilled Trades Ontario

Québec

Job title Cook
Regulated
Regulatory body: Québec.ca

Source Foreign Credential Recognition Program - ESDC

Red Seal endorsement

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This occupation is eligible for Red Seal endorsement across Canada

When you get a Red Seal endorsement on your trade certificate, it lets employers know that you meet the national qualification standards for workers in your trade. Learn more about the Red Seal endorsement.

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.

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