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Apprentice Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Bay Club Company

Line Cook / Prep Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

High school graduate and an apprenticeship, cooking school, or culinary education * Possess current health department certifications required to work in a kitchen * Must have a current California ...

Four Seasons Hotels Limited

Cook 2

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$31.20/hr

High school graduate and an apprenticeship, cooking school or culinary institute education. * Highly developed sense of taste and comprehensive sauce preparation skills. * Refined plating techniques.

Four Seasons

Cook 1

San Diego, CA · On-site

$27.35/hr

High school graduate and an apprenticeship, cooking school or culinary institute education. * Highly developed sense of taste and comprehensive sauce preparation skills. What we offer: Hourly Rate ...

Four Seasons Hotels Limited

Cook 1

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$27.35/hr

High school graduate and an apprenticeship, cooking school or culinary institute education. * Highly developed sense of taste and comprehensive sauce preparation skills. What we offer: • Hourly ...

Hotel Spero

Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Overview: The Cook will prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or ... Certification of Culinary training or apprenticeship is preferred. Crestline Hotels & Resorts is an ...

Crestline Hotels and Resorts

Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Overview: The Cook will prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or ... Certification of Culinary training or apprenticeship is preferred. Crestline Hotels & Resorts is an ...

Super King Market

Meat Cutter Apprentice

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

The Meat Cutter Apprentice will complete the Training Certification course and successfully pass an ... meat in cooking form. * Weigh and price individual meat products for customers upon request.

Loma Clara Senior Living

Cook

Morgan Hill, CA

$22.33 - $25.13/hr

Prep Cook Responsibilities: * Prepares food items using standardized recipes in a timely manner ... Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred. * Food Services Sanitation Certificate. If having a ...

Spire Hospitality

Cook

Burbank, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Education: • High school diploma or its equivalent • Completion of Culinary or Apprenticeship Program preferred Experience: • Minimum of 1 year cook experience in hotel preferred • Minimum of ...

Union Rescue Mission

Lead Cook

Sylmar, CA

COOK ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Lead Cook is responsible for overseeing daily kitchen operations ... This role leads kitchen staff, supports apprentices, and serves as a key point of accountability ...

Union Rescue Mission

Lead Cook

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

COOK ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Lead Cook is responsible for overseeing daily kitchen operations ... This role leads kitchen staff, supports apprentices, and serves as a key point of accountability ...

Union Rescue Mission

Lead Cook

Lake View Terrace, CA · On-site

COOK ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Lead Cook is responsible for overseeing daily kitchen operations ... This role leads kitchen staff, supports apprentices, and serves as a key point of accountability ...

Discovery Commons Raincross

Cook

Riverside, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Prep Cook Responsibilities: * Prepares food items using standardized recipes in a timely manner ... Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred. * Food Services Sanitation Certificate. If having a ...

Discovery Commons Raincross

Cook

Riverside, CA

$19 - $21/hr

Prep Cook Responsibilities: * Prepares food items using standardized recipes in a timely manner ... Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred. * Food Services Sanitation Certificate. If having a ...

Spire Hospitality

Cook

Burbank, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Education: • High school diploma or its equivalent • Completion of Culinary or Apprenticeship Program preferred Experience: • Minimum of 1 year cook experience in hotel preferred • Minimum of ...

Integral Senior Living

Cook

Riverside, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Prep Cook Responsibilities: * Prepares food items using standardized recipes in a timely manner ... Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred. * Food Services Sanitation Certificate. If having a ...

Rising Star Preschool

School Cook

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Mentor/apprentice program ABOUT THIS ROLE This position offers full-time or part-time work, Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 5 PM . As our School Cook, you'll begin your day planning and preparing ...

Spire Hospitality

Cook

Goleta, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Education: • High school diploma or its equivalent • Completion of Culinary or Apprenticeship Program preferred Experience: • Minimum of 1 year cook experience in hotel preferred • Minimum of ...

Granlibakken Tahoe

Breakfast Cook

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Culinary school degree, completed apprenticeship or equivalent experience will be preferred but not required. * Experience: As a professional cook preferred. * Minimum 1-year experience cooking at a ...

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All JobsApprentice Cook JobsApprentice Cook Jobs in California

Apprentice Cook information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in California is $16.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you get an apprenticeship in cooking?

Yes, aspiring cooks can pursue apprenticeships in cooking, which provide hands-on training in professional kitchens. These programs often combine work experience with classroom instruction and may require a minimum age or prior food service experience. Apprenticeships help develop skills such as food preparation, safety, and kitchen operations.

What is a cooking apprenticeship?

A cooking apprenticeship is a structured training program where an apprentice cook learns culinary skills, kitchen operations, and food preparation under the supervision of experienced chefs. It often involves hands-on work, skill development, and may lead to certification or qualification in culinary arts.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Apprentice cooks can be of any age, including 27, as apprenticeships are open to individuals seeking to develop culinary skills regardless of age. Many programs welcome mature learners who bring life experience and a strong work ethic, and age is rarely a barrier to entry in culinary apprenticeships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Cook, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and hygiene standards, often gained through culinary training or a relevant apprenticeship. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and point-of-sale systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure efficient kitchen operations, high-quality food output, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice cooks during their training period?

Apprentice cooks often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the fast-paced kitchen environment, mastering basic cooking techniques under pressure, and learning to follow strict hygiene and safety standards. Balancing learning new skills with performing routine prep work can feel demanding, but it’s a valuable part of building a solid foundation. Regular feedback from experienced chefs and teamwork with other kitchen staff help apprentices grow and adapt quickly.

Can I join culinary school with no experience?

Apprentice cooks can often enroll in culinary school without prior experience, as programs are designed to teach foundational skills. Basic knowledge of kitchen safety, hygiene, and a strong interest in cooking can be beneficial, but formal experience is not always required for admission. Culinary schools typically provide hands-on training to develop necessary skills for a cooking career.

What is the difference between Apprentice Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectApprentice CookLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training or no formal certificationExperience or culinary certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining kitchen, supervised environmentFast-paced kitchen, independent responsibilities
Job RoleLearning and assisting, gaining skillsPreparing dishes, executing menu items

The main difference between an Apprentice Cook and a Line Cook is experience level and responsibilities. Apprentice Cooks are in training, focusing on learning skills under supervision, while Line Cooks are experienced professionals responsible for preparing specific dishes in a busy kitchen. Both roles are essential in culinary operations, with Apprentice Cooks progressing toward full Line Cook responsibilities as they gain experience.

What are apprentice cooks?

Apprentice cooks are individuals who are learning the basics of cooking and kitchen operations under the supervision of experienced chefs. They assist with food preparation, basic cooking tasks, cleaning, and maintaining kitchen equipment while developing their culinary skills. This role is often part of a formal apprenticeship or training program, designed to provide hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in the culinary arts. Apprentice cooks gradually take on more responsibilities as they gain experience and proficiency in the kitchen.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in California? The most popular types of Cook jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in California? For Apprentice Cook jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs? Cities in California with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in CA? For Apprentice Cook jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Apprentice Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,591 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Line Cook / Prep Cook

Line Cook / Prep Cook

The Bay Club Company

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY
The Line Cook will assist in various areas of the kitchen with responsibilities including, doing prep, cooking on the hotline or pantry, reading ticket orders, potential baking, following recipes and plating guidelines consistently, and preparing all food to the Club's standards in accordance with guidelines set forth by the Executive Chef. The Line Cook will primarily work in a back-of-house environment but will be required to work in front of members for special events. The Line Cook is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of all prep and storage equipment on a continual basis.
We are also searching for Prep Cooks, who are essential during our peak summer season.
Our Culture
Our unique culture is at the heart of all we do and is guided by our values and behaviors. It's what we expect of ourselves and each other every day. We call it our "Code of Culture".
Our Code of Culture includes Our Mantra, Our Actions We Live By, and Pete's Promise:
Our Mantra:
Respect The Past
Accept Responsibility
Pay it Forward
Our Actions We Live By:
Actions We Live By. It's who we are when we step into our full power.
Keep It Real. Always. We need open and honest discussions. We need courage to speak up and to call things out that aren't good enough. And we navigate tough conversations with empathy and grace.
Think Ahead. Be An Owner. Always be proactive, not reactive; be on the front foot. If we want to be an owner of this business, we must act like it!
Stay Humble. Hustle Harder. Show up and do the hard workBe a gritty, roll-up-your-sleeves kind of crewKnow it's never about one person-we are a part of a powerful team.
One Team. One Voice. Be ONE united team. When we move in the same direction, there are no limits to what we can accomplish.
Be Curious. Ask Why. Stay member curiousWe seek to understand, and we never settle. We ask questions to truly understand the core of a matter.
Pete's Promise:
Service Forward
Ruthlessly Consistent
Do the Right Thing
Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
PRIMARY JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Follow proper payroll and uniform procedures
  • Run the day-to-day operation of the assigned station
  • Check and complete mise en place and pars as well as set up the assigned station
  • Communicate with the Chef and Sous Chef regarding menu items, problem situations, and shortages
  • Work closely with standard recipes and plating presentations to maintain standards of quality in production and presentation
  • Maintain a good working relationship with all employees
  • Store and label items properly at the end of the shift
  • Ensure a clean, neat, and organized work area
  • Handle and report any accident immediately
  • Follow all guidelines for timely food service to members and their guests
  • Maintain food service sanitation certification and use all learned standards within the kitchen
  • Perform other tasks or projects as assigned
  • Strictly adhere to rules and regulations established in the employee handbook and Club policies
  • Maintain open communication with all team members
  • Utilize the 10'-5' rule in all interactions
  • Recognize and address any problems resulting from member or guest complaints
  • Notify management of unsafe conditions, maintenance issues, or damage to equipment
  • Perform other duties as assigned and/or requested by Management

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each primary job function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
  • Ability to work non-traditional working hours, weekends, and holidays

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • High school graduate and an apprenticeship, cooking school, or culinary education
  • Possess current health department certifications required to work in a kitchen
  • Must have a current California Food Handler Card or willingness and ability to obtain a California Food Handler Card before the first day of employment

WORKING CONDITIONS/ PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.
  • The employee is required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to fingers, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, or crouch.
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distance vision.
  • While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee is usually outdoors and experiences a moderate noise level in the work environment. The employee works in a climate of 68 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. The employee will be exposed to weather conditions which include extreme heat and humidity.

JOB DESCRIPTION REVISION
This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts or working conditions associated with this job. While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change. This job description replaces all previous descriptions for this position.
An Equal Opportunity Employer
The Bay Club Company ("TBCC") provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race (and all traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, religion, creed (including, but not limited to, religious dress and grooming practices), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, and breastfeeding, and other related medical conditions), sexual orientation and identity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, actual or perceived national origin/ancestry, accent or ability to speak English, age, disability, marital/familial status, source of income, veteran status, citizenship status, political activities or affiliations, medical condition, genetic information, persons with AIDS or AIDS-related condition, or persons who are victims of domestic violence.

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