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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Ono Hawaiian BBQ

Kitchen Crew - Ono 209

Turlock, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Perform food preparation, stocking of inventory, food quality and portion control when cooking and ... training, and apprenticeship. Ono Hawaiian BBQ makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

ono

Kitchen Crew - Ono 228

Los Banos, CA

$20/hr

Perform food preparation, stocking of inventory, food quality and portion control when cooking and ... training, and apprenticeship. Ono Hawaiian BBQ makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

ono

Kitchen Crew - Ono 228

Los Banos, CA

$20/hr

Perform food preparation, stocking of inventory, food quality and portion control when cooking and ... training, and apprenticeship. Ono Hawaiian BBQ makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

Ono Hawaiian BBQ

Kitchen Crew - Ono 228

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Perform food preparation, stocking of inventory, food quality and portion control when cooking and ... training, and apprenticeship. Ono Hawaiian BBQ makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

ono

Kitchen Crew - Ono 228

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Perform food preparation, stocking of inventory, food quality and portion control when cooking and ... training, and apprenticeship. Ono Hawaiian BBQ makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

All JobsApprentice Cook JobsApprentice Cook Jobs in Merced, CA

Apprentice Cook information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Merced, CA is $17.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice cook?

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 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.

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.

Can you get an apprenticeship in cooking?

Yes, aspiring cooks can pursue apprenticeships in cooking, which provide hands-on training in kitchens under the supervision of experienced chefs. These programs often combine practical work with classroom instruction and may lead to certification or increased job opportunities in the culinary industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Merced, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:

Apprentice Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,944 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Kitchen Crew - Ono 209

Ono Hawaiian BBQ

Turlock, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Celebrating our 20th anniversary, Ono Hawaiian BBQ is a fast-casual restaurant known for its authentic Hawaiian Plate Lunches and other island specialties. Ono Hawaiian uses the freshest ingredients, prepared from scratch daily in each restaurant and grilled fresh to order. With over 100 locations across California and Arizona, we aim to combine the culture and "Aloha" spirit of Hawaii into our restaurants to bring a taste of the islands with exceptional service in an inviting atmosphere.
Job Overview: Job Summary: Ono Hawaiian BBQ is seeking motivated individuals to join our team as Kitchen Crew Members. As a Kitchen Crew, you will play a vital role in our operations Department, ensuring the smooth operation of the back of the house and delivering high-quality food to our customers. This is an hourly position with a competitive compensation of $20.00 per hour.
Responsibilities
The responsibilities listed here are not all-inclusive; they indicate the types of activities usually
performed by this position. The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate core competencies
in the following areas:
  • Understand and comply with health codes and safety procedures.
  • Understand and comply with company policies and procedures.
  • Understand and comply with Kitchen Crew Training Guideline.
  • Perform food preparation, stocking of inventory, food quality and portion control when cooking and serving food at the cookline.
  • Prepare multiple food orders at the cookline and ensure the food is served accurately and timely to customers.
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the store by performing daily and weekly cleaning and sanitizing tasks.
  • Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Part-time or full-time.

Qualification/Requirements:
  • Food Handler Card required by the state or local health department.
  • Basic math skills, basic English written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Reliable transportation is required.

Benefits:
  • Eligible for Bonus and awards program
  • 401(k) matching program to help you save for retirement.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and Vision insurance for you and your dependents.
  • We offer life insurance and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid Sick Time off.
  • Meal Discount for employee

Company Perks:
At Ono Hawaiian BBQ, we value our employees and strive to provide a positive work environment. In addition to competitive compensation, we offer online employee discounts to amusement parks, restaurants, movie theaters, spas, sporting events, and so much more! We believe in creating opportunities for our employees to enjoy their time outside of work and make lasting memories with their families and friends.
Physical Demands
  • Extended periods of standing, walking, talking, and hearing.
  • Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling items weighing up to 50 lbs.
  • Frequent hand washing and use of cleaning solutions.
  • Repetitive movement of arms, fingers, hands, and wrists.
  • Reaching high storage shelving using a stepladder.
  • Squatting, kneeling, and bending to reach objects in lower cabinets or shelving

Environmental Conditions
  • The kitchen area can be hot, and the noise level is typically high.
  • The walk-in refrigerated area is extremely cold.
  • You will be working around kitchen equipment and tools.

Additional Information
Ono Hawaiian BBQ is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. Ono Hawaiian BBQ makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

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