---
title: "Cook and Chef in Indonesia: Duties, Food Safety and Pay"
description: "Cooks and chefs prepare food in Indonesian restaurants, hotels, ships and SPPG free-meal kitchens; SPPG food handlers must take a food safety course."
lang: en
canonical: "https://kariraman.com/en/careers/cook/"
datePublished: "2026-10-07"
dateModified: "2026-10-08"
sources:
  - "https://ekonomi.republika.co.id/berita/sq0416423/ini-5-ciriciri-lowongan-kerja-palsu-versi-kemnaker"
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp36-2021bt.pdf"
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp35-2021bt.pdf"
  - "https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Download/28701/UU%2024%20Tahun%202011.pdf"
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp10-2018bt.pdf"
  - "https://kemkes.go.id/id/kemenkes-terbitkan-surat-edaran-percepatan-penerbitan-slhs"
  - "https://jogja.antaranews.com/berita/823831/kemenkes-sediakan-666-ribu-kuota-pelatihan-gratis-penjamah-pangan-sppg"
  - "https://rri.co.id/banjarmasin/cek-fakta/2177548/hoaks-tautan-pendaftaran-lowongan-kerja-untuk-program-mbg-2026"
  - "https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/content/930004452.pdf"
  - "https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/03_00176.html"
  - "https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/10_00259.html"
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/uu18-2017bt.pdf"
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/permen-p2mi-no-17-tahun-2025.pdf"
  - "https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Details/352436"
  - "https://skkni-api.kemnaker.go.id/v1/public/documents/7064fcff-0c50-47ee-a614-d4b594c6de81/download"
  - "https://skkni-api.kemnaker.go.id/v1/public/documents/55c132ce-5317-4e9f-8ec6-0637dfddccbf/download"
  - "https://jdih.kemnaker.go.id/asset/data_puu/2025senaker006.pdf"
  - "https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Download/31128/UU%20Nomor%2013%20Tahun%202003.pdf"
  - "https://jdih.jabarprov.go.id/page/info/produk/53539/"
  - "https://satudata.kemnaker.go.id/data/kumpulan-data/3005"
  - "https://www.hukumonline.com/berita/a/ump-dan-umk-jabar-2026-lt695805af72d43"
  - "https://satudata.kemnaker.go.id/data/kumpulan-data/2252"
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp-no-49-tahun-2025.pdf"
  - "https://jdih.jakarta.go.id/dokumen/detail/14763"
  - "https://kemnaker.go.id/news/detail/wamenaker-apresiasi-paket-kebijakan-kesejahteraan-pekerja-dki-pascapenetapan-ump-2026-bisa-dicontoh-oleh-daerah-lain"
  - "https://www.bps.go.id/id/pressrelease/2026/08/05/2606/keadaan-ketenagakerjaan-.html"
  - "https://emedia.dpr.go.id/news/2026/10/07/dpr-sahkan-uu-pelindungan-ketenagakerjaan-dasco-kado-terindah-untuk-buruh"
  - "https://kemnaker.go.id/news/detail/menaker-ungkap-poin-penting-uu-pelindungan-ketenagakerjaan-yang-wajib-diketahui-pekerja"
  - "https://www.kompas.tv/ekonomi/633153/6-ciri-lowongan-kerja-bodong-yang-perlu-diwaspadai"
  - "https://finance.detik.com/tips-dan-trik/d-7941714/waspada-marak-modus-penipuan-lowongan-admin-e-commerce"
  - "https://koran-jakarta.com/2026-08-12/pemkot-jaktim-minta-pelamar-waspadai-modus-kerja-palsu"
  - "https://www.bca.co.id/id/informasi/awas-modus/2024/09/18/08/24/Awas-Modus-Panggilan-Interview-Kerja-Ini-Ciri-cirinya"
  - "https://www.detik.com/bali/hukum-dan-kriminal/d-8524702/niat-cari-kerja-di-bali-pria-sumba-malah-disekap-disiksa-2-wanita"
  - "https://www.medcom.id/nasional/daerah/Wb7zXLaN-polisi-tunggu-pelaporan-korban-kasus-staycation"
  - "https://www.ojk.go.id/id/berita-dan-kegiatan/info-terkini/Documents/Pages/Booklet-Waspada-Penipuan-Scam-OJK/Booklet%20Waspada%20Penipuan%20Mengintai%20Kita%2c%20Ayo%20Lawan%20dan%20Hindari%21.pdf"
  - "https://www.cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20240112093139-78-1048464/waspada-modus-penipuan-file-apk-pps-pemilu-yang-bisa-kuras-rekening"
  - "https://disnaker.batam.go.id/wp-content/uploads/sites/36/2025/06/DOC-20250522-WA0002.-1.pdf"
---

> Markdown version of https://kariraman.com/en/careers/cook/. Cite that HTML page and its update date.

# Cooks and chefs in Indonesia, including MBG kitchens: duties, pay and applying safely

Written by KarirAman editorial team Approved by [Kaiser Khan](https://kariraman.com/en/authors/kaiser-khan/) (editor), 8 October 2026 Updated 8 October 2026

Cooks and chefs prepare food in Indonesian restaurants, hotels, ships and SPPG free-meal kitchens; SPPG food handlers must take a food safety course.

## Summary

Medium scam risk

- Cooks prepare ingredients, cook to recipe and portion size, and keep the kitchen clean and food-safe.
- Every SPPG kitchen in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme must hold an SLHS hygiene certificate, and its food handlers must take a food safety course.
- The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it never asks for personal data through unofficial channels, including in recruitment.
- Japan suspended new Certificates of Eligibility for the SSW food service field from 13 April 2026.
- A cook vacancy that asks for a registration fee or ID card details through an unofficial link should be treated as suspect.

## What does a cook do in Indonesia?

Cooks (juru masak) prepare ingredients, cook to recipe and portion size, and keep the kitchen clean and safe. In restaurants, a cook usually runs one section, such as the hot line or preparation. In mass-production kitchens such as the Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) units of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, cooks prepare large batches to a set schedule, menu and food safety rules.

- Prepare ingredients: wash, cut, measure and store them according to type.
- Cook dishes to the recipe, taste standard and portion size.
- Keep yourself, your tools and the kitchen clean, and prevent cross-contamination.
- Check storage temperatures and rotate stock so that the oldest ingredients are used first.
- Record ingredient use and report shortages.
- In mass-production kitchens such as SPPG, cook large batches to a set schedule and menu.
- Help portion and pack meals so they are ready for distribution on time.
- Clean the kitchen and equipment at the end of the shift.

## What do you need to become a cook in Indonesia?

Cooking is not a licensed profession, but food safety is supervised. Ministry of Health Circular HK.02.02/C.I/4202/2025 requires every SPPG to hold a hygiene and sanitation certificate (SLHS), and the application must include proof that food handlers have taken a ready-to-eat food safety course. Restaurant vacancies usually ask for an SMA/SMK certificate, ideally in catering, or cooking experience.

## What does a typical cook job description look like?

Cook vacancies in Indonesia usually look for people with basic cooking skills who understand kitchen hygiene and can work shifts, to prepare ingredients, cook to recipe and keep portions consistent. We wrote the description below ourselves from common advertising patterns. It is not a vacancy from any kitchen or restaurant, so there is no apply button.

General example, not a vacancy

We wrote this description ourselves from what job ads usually ask for. It is not a vacancy from any company.

### Commonly requested requirements

- An SMA or SMK certificate; catering or culinary majors are often preferred.
- Experience in a restaurant, catering business or production kitchen is a plus.
- Knowledge of hygiene and food safety; SPPG kitchens ask for proof of a food safety course for food handlers.
- Healthy, able to work in a hot kitchen and willing to work shifts, including before dawn.
- Careful with portion sizes and disciplined about following recipes.

### Skills

Basic cooking techniques, Food safety, Kitchen hygiene, Time management, Portioning, Teamwork, Ingredient stock control, Physical stamina.

Ministry of Manpower Circular M/6/HK.04/V/2025 bars employers from discriminating on any basis in recruitment. An age requirement is allowed only where the nature of the job genuinely affects ability and it does not remove the chance of work, and the same applies to workers with disabilities. Law 13/2003 Articles 5 and 6 guarantee equal opportunity and treatment without discrimination. [JDIH Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan](https://jdih.kemnaker.go.id/asset/data_puu/2025senaker006.pdf) 8 October 2026 [JDIH BPK RI (peraturan.bpk.go.id)](https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Download/31128/UU%20Nomor%2013%20Tahun%202003.pdf) 8 October 2026

## How much do chefs and cooks earn in Indonesia?

No pay data specific to cooks or chefs meets our standard yet, so that row in the table reads Not enough data. The floor is clear: under Government Regulation (PP) 36/2021 Articles 23 and 24, workers with less than one year of service may not be paid below the minimum wage where they work, which is the 2026 minimum wage (UMK) of the regency or city. Micro and small businesses are exempt (Article 36). We do not show SPPG kitchen pay per position yet because there is no official data we can verify.

**Cook: available pay data (as of 8 October 2026)**

| Data | Figure | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Pay range in KarirAman verified vacancies | Not enough data yet (n < 30) |   |
| Average net wage of employees, Accommodation and food service activities (BPS Sakernas May 2026) | IDR 2,639,594 | reference for the Accommodation and food service activities sector, not specific to this career; net (after deductions)<br>[Badan Pusat Statistik](https://www.bps.go.id/id/pressrelease/2026/08/05/2606/keadaan-ketenagakerjaan-.html) 8 October 2026 |
| Minimum wage (UMP/UMK) as the floor | IDR 2,317,601 to IDR 5,729,876 | Lowest 2026 UMP IDR 2,317,601 (West Java), highest IDR 5,729,876 (Jakarta)<br>Micro and small businesses are exempt from the minimum wage rules; pay there is set by agreement and still has a legal floor. [Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id)](https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp36-2021bt.pdf) 7 October 2026 |

[Check your city's minimum wage (2026)](https://kariraman.com/en/minimum-wage/) [Work out your take-home pay](https://kariraman.com/en/tools/take-home-pay/) [How we handle salary data](https://kariraman.com/en/methodology/salary/)

## Which education routes lead to cook work?

The usual route for cooks is an SMK culinary or catering programme, then work as a kitchen assistant. The Catering SKKNI (Kepmenaker 107/2024) and the Hotel SKKNI (Kepmenaker 125/2024) include units such as using basic cooking methods and following food safety procedures, tested by certification bodies (LSP) licensed by BNSP. For SPPG kitchens, the Ministry of Health offers free online food safety training for food handlers, according to Antara from an event on 25 April 2026.

- [**Vocational high school (SMK) in Indonesia: route to work, certificates and job centres**](https://kariraman.com/en/education/vocational-high-school/)
- [**BLK and BPVP: free government job training in Indonesia and how to register on Skillhub**](https://kariraman.com/en/education/government-training-centres/)
- [**LPK training institutes in Indonesia: choosing a licensed one and spotting warning signs**](https://kariraman.com/en/education/private-training-institutes/)
- [**BNSP competency certification in Indonesia: how to get one, check it and when you need it**](https://kariraman.com/en/education/bnsp-competency-certification/)

## Can you work as a cook abroad?

Cooks can work abroad, but check the field. Cooking in Japanese restaurants falls under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) food service field, and the Immigration Services Agency of Japan suspended new Certificates of Eligibility (COE) for it from 13 April 2026. Food and beverage manufacturing in factories is a separate SSW field and remains one of the 19 SSW fields in ISA's official explainer revised on 17 July 2026. Go only through a licensed agency (P3MI) or KP2MI.

- [**Specified Skilled Worker (i)**](https://kariraman.com/en/work-abroad/japan/specified-skilled-worker/)
- [**Formal work with a MoHRE work permit**](https://kariraman.com/en/work-abroad/uae/formal-sector/)
- [**Formal work for legal-entity employers**](https://kariraman.com/en/work-abroad/qatar/formal-sector/)

## Which work rights should cooks check?

Restaurant cooks often work on fixed-term contracts (PKWT) and long shifts. Under PP 35/2021, a PKWT may not include probation (Article 12), and work beyond normal hours must be paid as overtime (Article 27). Employers must register their workers with BPJS social security (Law 24/2011 Article 15). In any kitchen, ask in writing who your employer is and how your pay is calculated.

**Legal status:** the Labour Protection Law was approved by the DPR and the Government on 6 October 2026 but has not been promulgated and its text is not public. Until it takes effect, the rules on this page apply.

[Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat RI (emedia)](https://emedia.dpr.go.id/news/2026/10/07/dpr-sahkan-uu-pelindungan-ketenagakerjaan-dasco-kado-terindah-untuk-buruh) 7 October 2026; [Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan RI](https://kemnaker.go.id/news/detail/menaker-ungkap-poin-penting-uu-pelindungan-ketenagakerjaan-yang-wajib-diketahui-pekerja) 7 October 2026

## What is the kitchen career ladder from commis to head chef?

Hotel and large restaurant kitchens use a brigade ladder: cook helper or commis, then demi chef, chef de partie running one section, sous chef as deputy, and head chef or executive chef. Small kitchens are simpler: kitchen assistant, cook, then head cook. Mining camp, ship and SPPG kitchens lead to production supervisor or food safety lead, and some cooks move into baking or restaurant supervision. A competency certificate from a certification body (LSP) licensed by BNSP helps when you seek promotion.

## What interview questions might you be asked for cook jobs?

Interview questions for cook jobs often cover food hygiene and safety, working through busy periods, handling guest complaints, shift work, and teamwork. Each example below comes with why it is asked and how to answer it. The Ministry of Manpower warns that an instant chat interview without formal confirmation is one sign of a fake job.

[Republika](https://ekonomi.republika.co.id/berita/sq0416423/ini-5-ciriciri-lowongan-kerja-palsu-versi-kemnaker) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026

General examples written by KarirAman, not questions from any particular company. How to practise: read the question, answer it out loud, then open the guidance to compare.

### Questions for this field

**How do you keep food clean and safe at work?**

**Why they ask:** One hygiene lapse can make many people ill.

**How to answer:** Name real habits: washing hands, keeping raw and cooked food apart, storing ingredients by procedure and cleaning your station after each task.

**What do you do when orders pile up at peak time?**

**Why they ask:** Rush hours test calm and teamwork.

**How to answer:** Explain how you order the queue, talk to your team and keep to standards while working fast.

**How do you handle a guest who complains about an order or a room?**

**Why they ask:** Good complaint handling can turn an unhappy guest into a loyal one.

**How to answer:** Describe listening, apologising, fixing it quickly within the rules and telling your supervisor.

**Can you work shifts, including weekends and public holidays?**

**Why they ask:** Food and hospitality businesses open long hours.

**How to answer:** Answer honestly about your availability, then ask about the rota, rest days and how overtime is recorded, and get it in writing.

**Tell me about working in a kitchen or service team.**

**Why they ask:** Kitchens and service run on tight coordination.

**How to answer:** Name your role, how the team shared tasks and one example where good coordination saved an order or an event.

**How do you manage ingredients so they do not spoil or go to waste?**

**Why they ask:** Wasted ingredients cost money and spoiled ones are a health risk.

**How to answer:** Mention first in, first out, date labels, correct storage temperatures and stock records.

**Common questions that also come up (12 questions)**

- **Tell me about yourself.** Answer in about a minute: where you are now in work or study, two experiences that matter for this job, then why you applied. Personal matters such as family status are not needed.
- **Why did you apply to this company?** Mention one or two real things you learned from the company's official website, such as its business or services, and link them to your skills.
- **Why are you interested in this role?** Pick two tasks from the job advert, describe similar things you have done, and say which part you most want to grow in.
- **What are your strengths?** Name one or two strengths and give short proof: the situation, what you did and the result.
- **What is your weakness?** Choose a real weakness that is not central to the job, then explain what you are doing to improve it.
- **Tell me about a problem at work or school that you solved.** Use the STAR pattern: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Focus on what you yourself did and what you learned.
- **How do you work in a team, including when people disagree?** Give a real example of listening, explaining your view politely and finding a solution everyone accepted.
- **How do you handle pressure or tight deadlines?** Explain how you set priorities, such as a task list or checking with your supervisor, and give one example of the outcome.
- **Where do you see yourself in two or three years?** Mention the skills you want to master and the responsibility you hope to take on, without promising things you cannot know.
- **What salary do you expect?** First research the pay range for the role and the local minimum wage where you would work. Give a range, then ask whether the figure is gross or net and which allowances apply.
- **When can you start?** Give a realistic date. If you are still employed, mention the notice period in your current contract so you do not break it.
- **Do you have any questions for us?** Ask about the contract type, working hours, base pay and allowances, the next selection step and when results are announced. Ask for the offer in writing.

**Warning signs in interviews (6)**

- **The interview happens only by WhatsApp or Telegram chat with no formal invitation, or you are pushed to be interviewed on the spot.** **What to do:** Ask for a written invitation from a company-domain e-mail address, then match the contact with the official website you look up yourself. [Republika](https://ekonomi.republika.co.id/berita/sq0416423/ini-5-ciriciri-lowongan-kerja-palsu-versi-kemnaker) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [Kompas TV](https://www.kompas.tv/ekonomi/633153/6-ciri-lowongan-kerja-bodong-yang-perlu-diwaspadai) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [detikFinance](https://finance.detik.com/tips-dan-trik/d-7941714/waspada-marak-modus-penipuan-lowongan-admin-e-commerce) 8 October 2026
- **You are asked to pay for a test, a psychological test, a medical check-up, training or a uniform, or to book tickets and a hotel through an appointed agent with a promise of reimbursement.** **What to do:** Do not transfer anything. The Ministry of Manpower says legitimate recruitment does not charge applicants. [Kompas TV](https://www.kompas.tv/ekonomi/633153/6-ciri-lowongan-kerja-bodong-yang-perlu-diwaspadai) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [Republika](https://ekonomi.republika.co.id/berita/sq0416423/ini-5-ciriciri-lowongan-kerja-palsu-versi-kemnaker) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [Koran Jakarta](https://koran-jakarta.com/2026-08-12/pemkot-jaktim-minta-pelamar-waspadai-modus-kerja-palsu) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA)](https://www.bca.co.id/id/informasi/awas-modus/2024/09/18/08/24/Awas-Modus-Panggilan-Interview-Kerja-Ini-Ciri-cirinya) 8 October 2026
- **The interview is held in a hotel room, a private house or another closed place that is not an office, or the location keeps changing. An invitation to stay overnight, or any sexual demand, as a condition for being hired or for renewing a contract is also a warning sign.** **What to do:** Ask for the interview at the office or a public place, tell someone close to you where you are, and leave if you feel unsafe. Sexual demands can be reported to the police or the local manpower office (Disnaker). If you are in danger, call the police. [Koran Jakarta](https://koran-jakarta.com/2026-08-12/pemkot-jaktim-minta-pelamar-waspadai-modus-kerja-palsu) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [detikBali (detik.com)](https://www.detik.com/bali/hukum-dan-kriminal/d-8524702/niat-cari-kerja-di-bali-pria-sumba-malah-disekap-disiksa-2-wanita) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [Medcom.id](https://www.medcom.id/nasional/daerah/Wb7zXLaN-polisi-tunggu-pelaporan-korban-kasus-staycation) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026
- **You are asked for a photo of your KTP or family card, a selfie holding your ID, your bank account number, an OTP code, a PIN or a password before any written job offer.** **What to do:** Do not send them. OJK says never to give an OTP, PIN or password to anyone, and identity data can be misused for illegal online loans. [Kompas TV](https://www.kompas.tv/ekonomi/633153/6-ciri-lowongan-kerja-bodong-yang-perlu-diwaspadai) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (Sekretariat Satgas PASTI)](https://www.ojk.go.id/id/berita-dan-kegiatan/info-terkini/Documents/Pages/Booklet-Waspada-Penipuan-Scam-OJK/Booklet%20Waspada%20Penipuan%20Mengintai%20Kita%2c%20Ayo%20Lawan%20dan%20Hindari%21.pdf) 8 October 2026 [Koran Jakarta](https://koran-jakarta.com/2026-08-12/pemkot-jaktim-minta-pelamar-waspadai-modus-kerja-palsu) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026
- **The interview invitation arrives as an app file (APK) or a link that asks you to install an app.** **What to do:** Do not open it. OJK and Kominfo warn that fake APK files can read SMS messages with OTP codes and then drain bank accounts. [CNN Indonesia](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20240112093139-78-1048464/waspada-modus-penipuan-file-apk-pps-pemilu-yang-bisa-kuras-rekening) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026
- **After the interview you are asked to hand over your original diploma or other original personal documents as a guarantee for the job.** **What to do:** Ministry of Manpower Circular M/5/HK.04.00/V/2025 bars employers from requiring or holding original diplomas and personal documents as a guarantee for the job. The only exception is a diploma or competency certificate from education or training paid for by the employer under a written employment agreement, and the employer must keep it safe and compensate you if it is damaged or lost. Otherwise, show them for checking, then take them home. [Dinas Tenaga Kerja Kota Batam (meneruskan SE Menteri Ketenagakerjaan RI)](https://disnaker.batam.go.id/wp-content/uploads/sites/36/2025/06/DOC-20250522-WA0002.-1.pdf) 8 October 2026

**In danger or held at an interview location? Call the police:**

- **Police call centre 110** [110](tel:110) [polri.go.id](https://polri.go.id/layanan/spkt)

[See all interview questions](https://kariraman.com/en/guides/interview-questions/) [Build an ATS CV](https://kariraman.com/en/tools/cv-builder/) [Write a cover letter](https://kariraman.com/en/tools/cover-letter/)

## Which job scams target cook applicants?

Since the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme began, fake cook vacancies in the name of MBG or SPPG kitchens have spread widely. A fact check by RRI on 6 June 2026 found a post offering chef, kitchen assistant, cook and dishwasher jobs whose link asked for your name as on your ID card and a Telegram number. BGN says it does not request personal data through unofficial channels. Old tricks, such as uniform or training fees before hiring, also continue.

**Warning signs in cook job ads**

- A post about MBG or SPPG kitchen jobs links to a form asking for your name as on your ID card and your Telegram number, not to BGN's official channels.
- A recruiter claims to be from BGN or an SPPG kitchen and asks for personal data by chat or through an unofficial form. [RRI (Radio Republik Indonesia)](https://rri.co.id/banjarmasin/cek-fakta/2177548/hoaks-tautan-pendaftaran-lowongan-kerja-untuk-program-mbg-2026) (official statement via media) 7 October 2026
- You are asked to pay a registration, uniform or training fee before you start work in the kitchen. [Republika](https://ekonomi.republika.co.id/berita/sq0416423/ini-5-ciriciri-lowongan-kerja-palsu-versi-kemnaker) (official statement via media) 7 October 2026
- An agent offers restaurant cook work in Japan through the SSW food service field with a quick departure, although new COEs for that field have not been issued since 13 April 2026. [Immigration Services Agency of Japan (出入国在留管理庁)](https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/03_00176.html) 7 October 2026
- You are asked for cash or a transfer to a personal account for departure costs that are not written and itemised in the Placement Agreement. [Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id)](https://peraturan.go.id/files/permen-p2mi-no-17-tahun-2025.pdf) 7 October 2026
- A domestic worker placement company (P3RT) recruiting household cooks charges you a fee, cuts your pay or holds your original documents, although Law 2/2026 Article 28 bans this. [JDIH BPK RI](https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Details/352436) 7 October 2026

- [**Fake cruise ship jobs**](https://kariraman.com/en/job-scams/fake-cruise-ship-jobs/)
- [**Fees for training, medical checks, uniforms or ID cards**](https://kariraman.com/en/job-scams/job-offers-that-ask-for-fees/)
- [**How to spot a fake job offer in Indonesia (loker bodong) and tell real from fake**](https://kariraman.com/en/job-scams/signs-of-a-fake-job/)
- [**How to verify a company in Indonesia before you apply: AHU, NIB, P3MI, SOEs and OJK**](https://kariraman.com/en/job-scams/verify-an-employer/)

[Learn the signs of trafficking through job offers](https://kariraman.com/en/job-scams/human-trafficking/)

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[Report a fake job](https://kariraman.com/en/report-form/)

## Where can you find safe cook vacancies?

For cook vacancies at restaurants, hotels and caterers, look on companies' official careers sites, the Ministry of Manpower's Karirhub portal and local manpower office (Disnaker) job fairs. For SPPG kitchens, BGN says its official recruitment information is announced only on BGN's website and official social media, so do not trust links shared without a clear source. Never pay to take part in a selection. KarirAman does not list verified cook vacancies yet.

**No verified vacancies for this role yet**

We only list vacancies we have checked. In the meantime, look for jobs on these official channels.

- **Karirhub (Kemnaker)** [karirhub.kemnaker.go.id](https://karirhub.kemnaker.go.id/)
- **SOE careers directory** [bumn.go.id](https://bumn.go.id/peluang/karir/karir-bumn)
- **SSCASN (BKN)** [sscasn.bkn.go.id](https://sscasn.bkn.go.id/)
- **Official overseas job orders on SISKOP2MI** [siskop2mi.bp2mi.go.id](https://siskop2mi.bp2mi.go.id/lowongan/list)

## Which careers are similar?

- [**MBG Kitchen (SPPG) Worker**](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/school-meal-kitchen-worker/)
- [**Baker and Pastry Cook**](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/baker/)
- [**Kitchen Steward and Dishwasher**](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/kitchen-steward/)
- [**Restaurant Supervisor**](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/restaurant-supervisor/)
- [**Waiter or Waitress**](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/waiter/)
- [**Seafarer**](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/seafarer/)

[See other careers in Food, drink and retail](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/category/food-retail/)

## Frequently asked questions

**Can I trust SPPG cook vacancies shared on Facebook?**

Not necessarily. A fact check by public broadcaster RRI on 6 June 2026 found a fake MBG kitchen vacancy post whose link asked for your full name as on your ID card and a Telegram-linked phone number. BGN said it does not request personal data through unofficial channels. Do not fill in forms from unclear links, and compare any information with BGN's official website and accounts.

**Do cooks in SPPG kitchens need a food safety certificate?**

Yes, as food handlers. Ministry of Health Circular HK.02.02/C.I/4202/2025 requires every SPPG to hold an SLHS hygiene and sanitation certificate, and the application must include proof that food handlers have completed a ready-to-eat food safety course. According to the Ministry of Health, quoted by Antara from an event on 25 April 2026, food handler training for SPPG kitchens is free online.

**Can you still work as a restaurant cook in Japan through the SSW scheme?**

For new applicants from outside Japan, only to a very limited extent. The Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA) suspended new Certificates of Eligibility (COE) for the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) food service field from 13 April 2026, and as of 10 September 2026 it was only processing applications received by 31 January 2026. Check ISA's official site before paying for a language course or signing anything.

**Do I have to pay placement fees to work abroad as a cook?**

Law 18/2017 Article 30(1) says Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) may not be charged placement costs. KP2MI Ministerial Regulation 17/2025 makes the employer bear placement costs by default, and you may be charged only costs written and itemised in your Placement Agreement (Perjanjian Penempatan). Any request for money outside that document, in cash or to a personal account, is a red flag.

**Are restaurant cooks entitled to overtime pay?**

Yes. Under PP 35/2021 Article 27, an employer who makes staff work beyond normal hours must pay overtime. Overtime needs an instruction from the employer and the worker's written or digital consent (Article 28), and is capped at 4 hours a day and 18 hours a week (Article 26). Keep your own record of the hours you work for comparison.

**Are household cooks classed as domestic workers?**

Yes. Law 2/2026 on the Protection of Domestic Workers, in force since 30 April 2026, lists cooking as household work (Article 10). A household cook's pay and religious holiday allowance (THR) follow the agreement or employment contract (Article 15). If you are recruited through a domestic worker placement company (P3RT), Article 28 bars it from charging you any fee, cutting your pay or holding your original documents.

## Who wrote and reviewed this page?

Written by KarirAman editorial team Published 7 October 2026 Updated 8 October 2026

Prepared with AI assistance. Checked against official sources and approved for publication by Kaiser Khan (editor). Approval date: 8 October 2026.

## Sources

The facts on this page come from these sources. Dates show when we opened them.

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2. [Peraturan Pemerintah Nomor 36 Tahun 2021 tentang Pengupahan](https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp36-2021bt.pdf) Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id) · PP 36/2021 · accessed 7 October 2026
3. [Peraturan Pemerintah Nomor 35 Tahun 2021 tentang Perjanjian Kerja Waktu Tertentu, Alih Daya, Waktu Kerja dan Waktu Istirahat, dan Pemutusan Hubungan Kerja](https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp35-2021bt.pdf) Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id) · PP 35/2021 · accessed 7 October 2026
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14. [Undang-Undang Nomor 2 Tahun 2026 tentang Pelindungan Pekerja Rumah Tangga](https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Details/352436) JDIH BPK RI · UU 2/2026 · accessed 7 October 2026
15. [SKKNI Jasa Boga (Keputusan Menteri Ketenagakerjaan Nomor 107 Tahun 2024)](https://skkni-api.kemnaker.go.id/v1/public/documents/7064fcff-0c50-47ee-a614-d4b594c6de81/download) Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan RI (registri SKKNI) · Keputusan Menteri Ketenagakerjaan Nomor 107 Tahun 2024 · accessed 7 October 2026
16. [SKKNI Hotel (Keputusan Menteri Ketenagakerjaan Nomor 125 Tahun 2024)](https://skkni-api.kemnaker.go.id/v1/public/documents/55c132ce-5317-4e9f-8ec6-0637dfddccbf/download) Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan RI (registri SKKNI) · Keputusan Menteri Ketenagakerjaan Nomor 125 Tahun 2024 · accessed 7 October 2026
17. [Surat Edaran Menteri Ketenagakerjaan Nomor M/6/HK.04/V/2025 tentang Larangan Diskriminasi dalam Proses Rekrutmen Tenaga Kerja](https://jdih.kemnaker.go.id/asset/data_puu/2025senaker006.pdf) JDIH Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan · SE Menaker M/6/HK.04/V/2025 · accessed 8 October 2026
18. [Undang-Undang Nomor 13 Tahun 2003 tentang Ketenagakerjaan](https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Download/31128/UU%20Nomor%2013%20Tahun%202003.pdf) JDIH BPK RI (peraturan.bpk.go.id) · UU 13/2003 · accessed 8 October 2026
19. [JDIH Jawa Barat: Kepgub 561/Kep.859-Kesra/2025 tentang UMP Jawa Barat 2026](https://jdih.jabarprov.go.id/page/info/produk/53539/) JDIH Pemerintah Provinsi Jawa Barat · Kepgub Jabar 561/Kep.859-Kesra/2025 · accessed 8 October 2026
20. [Satudata Kemnaker: Upah Minimum Provinsi (UMP) Tahun 2026 (dataset 3005)](https://satudata.kemnaker.go.id/data/kumpulan-data/3005) Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan (Satudata Kemnaker) · accessed 7 October 2026
21. [UMP dan UMK Jabar 2026](https://www.hukumonline.com/berita/a/ump-dan-umk-jabar-2026-lt695805af72d43) Hukumonline · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
22. [Satudata Kemnaker: Upah Minimum Provinsi (UMP) Tahun 2025 (dataset 2252)](https://satudata.kemnaker.go.id/data/kumpulan-data/2252) Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan (Satudata Kemnaker) · accessed 7 October 2026
23. [PP 49/2025 tentang Perubahan Kedua atas PP 36/2021 tentang Pengupahan, Pasal II (ketentuan peralihan upah minimum 2026)](https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp-no-49-tahun-2025.pdf) Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id) · PP 49/2025 Pasal II · accessed 7 October 2026
24. [JDIH DKI Jakarta: Keputusan Gubernur Nomor 1142 Tahun 2025 tentang Upah Minimum Provinsi Tahun 2026](https://jdih.jakarta.go.id/dokumen/detail/14763) JDIH Provinsi DKI Jakarta · Kepgub DKI 1142/2025 · accessed 7 October 2026
25. [Kemnaker: Wamenaker apresiasi paket kebijakan kesejahteraan pekerja DKI pascapenetapan UMP 2026](https://kemnaker.go.id/news/detail/wamenaker-apresiasi-paket-kebijakan-kesejahteraan-pekerja-dki-pascapenetapan-ump-2026-bisa-dicontoh-oleh-daerah-lain) Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan · accessed 7 October 2026
26. [BPS: Keadaan Ketenagakerjaan Indonesia Mei 2026 (Berita Resmi Statistik No. 82/08/Th. XXIX)](https://www.bps.go.id/id/pressrelease/2026/08/05/2606/keadaan-ketenagakerjaan-.html) Badan Pusat Statistik · accessed 8 October 2026
27. [DPR Sahkan UU Pelindungan Ketenagakerjaan (emedia DPR RI, 7 Oktober 2026)](https://emedia.dpr.go.id/news/2026/10/07/dpr-sahkan-uu-pelindungan-ketenagakerjaan-dasco-kado-terindah-untuk-buruh) Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat RI (emedia) · accessed 7 October 2026
28. [Menaker Ungkap Poin Penting UU Pelindungan Ketenagakerjaan yang Wajib Diketahui Pekerja](https://kemnaker.go.id/news/detail/menaker-ungkap-poin-penting-uu-pelindungan-ketenagakerjaan-yang-wajib-diketahui-pekerja) Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan RI · accessed 7 October 2026
29. [6 Ciri Lowongan Kerja Bodong yang Perlu Diwaspadai](https://www.kompas.tv/ekonomi/633153/6-ciri-lowongan-kerja-bodong-yang-perlu-diwaspadai) Kompas TV · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
30. [Waspada! Marak Modus Penipuan Lowongan Admin e-Commerce](https://finance.detik.com/tips-dan-trik/d-7941714/waspada-marak-modus-penipuan-lowongan-admin-e-commerce) detikFinance · third party · accessed 8 October 2026
31. [Pemkot Jaktim Minta Pelamar Waspadai Modus Kerja Palsu (Koran Jakarta)](https://koran-jakarta.com/2026-08-12/pemkot-jaktim-minta-pelamar-waspadai-modus-kerja-palsu) Koran Jakarta · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
32. [Awas Modus Panggilan Interview Kerja, Ini Ciri-cirinya](https://www.bca.co.id/id/informasi/awas-modus/2024/09/18/08/24/Awas-Modus-Panggilan-Interview-Kerja-Ini-Ciri-cirinya) PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA) · third party · accessed 8 October 2026
33. [Niat Cari Kerja di Bali, Pria Sumba Malah Disekap-Disiksa 2 Wanita (detikBali)](https://www.detik.com/bali/hukum-dan-kriminal/d-8524702/niat-cari-kerja-di-bali-pria-sumba-malah-disekap-disiksa-2-wanita) detikBali (detik.com) · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
34. [Polisi Tunggu Pelaporan Korban Kasus Staycation](https://www.medcom.id/nasional/daerah/Wb7zXLaN-polisi-tunggu-pelaporan-korban-kasus-staycation) Medcom.id · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
35. [Waspada, Penipuan (Scam) Mengintai Kita. Ayo Lawan dan Hindari! (Booklet Satgas PASTI)](https://www.ojk.go.id/id/berita-dan-kegiatan/info-terkini/Documents/Pages/Booklet-Waspada-Penipuan-Scam-OJK/Booklet%20Waspada%20Penipuan%20Mengintai%20Kita%2c%20Ayo%20Lawan%20dan%20Hindari%21.pdf) Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (Sekretariat Satgas PASTI) · accessed 8 October 2026
36. [Waspada Modus Penipuan File APK PPS Pemilu yang Bisa Kuras Rekening](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20240112093139-78-1048464/waspada-modus-penipuan-file-apk-pps-pemilu-yang-bisa-kuras-rekening) CNN Indonesia · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
37. [Surat Edaran Menteri Ketenagakerjaan Nomor M/5/HK.04.00/V/2025 tentang Larangan Penahanan Ijazah dan/atau Dokumen Pribadi Milik Pekerja/Buruh oleh Pemberi Kerja (salinan dari Disnaker Kota Batam)](https://disnaker.batam.go.id/wp-content/uploads/sites/36/2025/06/DOC-20250522-WA0002.-1.pdf) Dinas Tenaga Kerja Kota Batam (meneruskan SE Menteri Ketenagakerjaan RI) · SE Menaker M/5/HK.04.00/V/2025 · accessed 8 October 2026

**How to cite**

KarirAman (2026). Cooks and chefs in Indonesia, including MBG kitchens: duties, pay and applying safely. Updated 8 October 2026. https://kariraman.com/en/careers/cook/

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- [Panduan Warga minimum wage guide](https://panduanwarga.org/en/guides/indonesia-minimum-wage/)
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CariTalent and PanduanHewan are Kode Nirlaba projects; Panduan Warga and The Cast Index are independent publications with the same founder. CourseToJob is a study-guide site with the same owner, run by Elite Digital AI Solutions Ltd.

**Change log**

- 8 October 2026 : Titles and headings now match common searches; added the kitchen brigade from commis to head chef and hotel, mining camp and SPPG kitchens.