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Assistant Prep Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

JACKMONT HOSPITALITY INC

Buca Prep Cook

Brea, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

The Buca Prep Cook at Brea, plays a crucial role in the kitchen by ensuring that all ingredients ... * Assist in inventory management by tracking ingredient levels and notifying supervisors of ...

JACKMONT HOSPITALITY INC

Buca Prep Cook

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

About the Role: The Buca Prep Cook plays a crucial role in the kitchen by ensuring that all ... * Assist in inventory management by tracking ingredient levels and notifying supervisors of ...

SAN IDLI

Prep Cook Wanted!!

San Diego, CA

$14 - $16/hr

Follow the prep list as directed by Kitchen Staff ... Prepare cooking ingredients by washing and chopping all fresh produce, etc. Assist Main Cook with ...

SAN IDLI

Prep Cook Wanted!!

San Diego, CA

$14 - $16/hr

Follow the prep list as directed by Kitchen Staff ... Prepare cooking ingredients by washing and chopping all fresh produce, etc. Assist Main Cook with ...

MOMOFUKU

Prep Cook

Los Angeles, CA

$18.42 - $21/hr

The Momofuku Prep Cook is an individual who assists the Back of House staff in preparing food ... Ability to assist the culinary team in receiving goods for the restaurant. * A proven track record ...

Momofuku

Prep Cook

Los Angeles, CA

$25 - $27.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Momofuku Prep Cook is an individual who assists the BOH staff in preparing food, maintains a ... Support other team members and foster a positive work environment. * Assist with family meal ...

Cloth & Flame

Prep Cook

Pebble Beach, CA · On-site

Sunday 8/16 9a-5p Responsibilities: Assist with food prep, cooking, and plating for a catered lunch service; work alongside the culinary team to ensure timely, high-quality execution; maintain a ...

Flecha Restaurant

Prep-Cook

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Prep Cook Company Description: Flecha by Mark Wahlberg is an exuberant, polished casual dining ... Portion and package ingredients for use during service. * Assist in the preparation of sauces ...

Lawry's

Prep Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Our Prep Cook's primary responsibility is to collaborate with the Chef/Sous Chef in producing ... Repan more ribs for potential need of more products during the night. * Assist Chef/Sous Chef in ...

Oakland Athletic Club

Prep Cook

Oakland, CA

$19 - $23/hr

Prepare ingredients by washing, chopping, slicing, and portioning according to recipes and prep lists * Assist with basic cooking tasks and ensure all prep items are ready for service * Maintain a ...

Lawry's

Prep Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Our Prep Cook's primary responsibility is to collaborate with the Chef/Sous Chef in producing ... Repan more ribs for potential need of more products during the night. * Assist Chef/Sous Chef in ...

Il Pizzaiolo Wood-fired Pizza

Prep Cook

Loomis, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... server, host, cook, prep cook, etc. so be prepared to learn a lot and work hard if you join the ... If you are interested in interviewing for a restaurant general manager or assistant restaurant ...

Momofuku

Prep Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$25 - $27.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Momofuku Prep Cook is an individual who assists the BOH staff in preparing food, maintains a ... Support other team members and foster a positive work environment. * Assist with family meal ...

Il Pizzaiolo Wood-fired Pizza

Prep Cook

Loomis, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... server, host, cook, prep cook, etc. so be prepared to learn a lot and work hard if you join the ... If you are interested in interviewing for a restaurant general manager or assistant restaurant ...

Il Pizzaiolo Wood-fired Pizza

Prep Cook

Loomis, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... server, host, cook, prep cook, etc. so be prepared to learn a lot and work hard if you join the ... If you are interested in interviewing for a restaurant general manager or assistant restaurant ...

The Bungalow Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $19.50/hr

Position summary The Prep Cook prepares ingredients and components so that the line runs smoothly ... the shift. * Assist line cooks during service and support plating or expediting when needed.

STK Topanga

Prep Cook

Canoga Park, CA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Wash, peel, chop, and cut vegetables, fruits, and herbs for use in various dishes * Assist with ... Previous experience as a Prep Cook, Kitchen Assistant, or similar role in a high-volume kitchen ...

The Bungalow Huntington Beach

Prep Cook

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $19.50/hr

Position summary The Prep Cook prepares ingredients and components so that the line runs smoothly ... the shift. * Assist line cooks during service and support plating or expediting when needed.

STK San Francisco

Prep Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Wash, peel, chop, and cut vegetables, fruits, and herbs for use in various dishes * Assist with ... Previous experience as a Prep Cook, Kitchen Assistant, or similar role in a high-volume kitchen ...

STK San Francisco

Prep Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Wash, peel, chop, and cut vegetables, fruits, and herbs for use in various dishes * Assist with ... Previous experience as a Prep Cook, Kitchen Assistant, or similar role in a high-volume kitchen ...

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All JobsPrep Cook JobsAssistant Prep Cook JobsAssistant Prep Cook Jobs in California

Assistant Prep Cook information

See California salary details

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How much do assistant prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant prep cook in California is $15.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is an assistant prep cook an entry-level job?

Yes, an assistant prep cook is typically considered an entry-level position in the culinary industry. It usually requires basic cooking skills, such as knife handling and food preparation, and often does not require prior professional experience. This role provides an opportunity to gain kitchen experience and develop skills for higher-level culinary positions.

Do assistant prep cooks make good money?

Assistant prep cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and establishment, with median pay around minimum wage to slightly above. Experienced workers or those working in high-cost areas may earn higher wages, and some positions offer benefits or tips that can increase overall compensation.

What is the difference between Assistant Prep Cook vs Prep Cook?

AspectAssistant Prep CookPrep Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skillsHigh school diploma; culinary training or experience preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in food prep in kitchens, restaurants, cateringPrepares ingredients and dishes, often working independently
Job ResponsibilitiesAssists with basic prep tasks, cleaning, and organizationPrepares ingredients, follows recipes, ensures quality

In summary, Assistant Prep Cooks support prep work with basic tasks and assistance, while Prep Cooks handle more advanced food preparation and cooking responsibilities. Both roles are essential in kitchen operations and often overlap in skills and environment.

What is an assistant prep cook?

Assistant prep cooks are entry-level kitchen staff who support chefs and line cooks by preparing ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring kitchen efficiency. Their tasks often include washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, as well as organizing storage areas and cleaning workstations. Assistant prep cooks are essential to the smooth operation of a restaurant kitchen, allowing chefs to focus on cooking and plating dishes. This role is an excellent way to gain experience in the culinary industry and learn kitchen fundamentals.

What does an assistant prep cook do?

As an Assistant Prep Cook, your daily responsibilities include washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, preparing basic sauces, and ensuring workstations are clean and organized. You'll work closely with line cooks and the head chef to ensure ingredients are ready for meal service, which helps the kitchen run efficiently and smoothly. This role is essential for maintaining a steady workflow, especially during busy periods, and offers valuable experience for learning kitchen operations. Collaboration and clear communication with the team are key to keeping up with the fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant prep cook?

To thrive as an Assistant Prep Cook, you need basic culinary knowledge, knife skills, and an ability to follow food safety standards, usually supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food preparation tools, and safe food handling certifications is often required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are key soft skills. These abilities ensure food quality, kitchen efficiency, and a safe working environment in a fast-paced restaurant setting.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs in California?

The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Prep Cook jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Prep Cook job openings:

Assistant Prep Cook jobs near you

Buca Prep Cook

JACKMONT HOSPITALITY INC

Brea, CA • On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Job description

About the Role:

The Buca Prep Cook at Brea, plays a crucial role in the kitchen by ensuring that all ingredients are prepped and ready for the cooking staff, contributing to the overall efficiency and quality of the dining experience. This position requires a keen attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of food safety and cleanliness. The Prep Cook will work closely with chefs and other kitchen staff to prepare ingredients for various dishes, ensuring that all items are fresh and properly stored. By effectively managing time and resources, the Prep Cook helps to streamline kitchen operations and support the culinary team in delivering exceptional meals to our guests. Ultimately, this role is essential in creating a positive dining experience and upholding the reputation of Buca Kansas City Plaza.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous experience in a kitchen or food preparation role preferred.
  • Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Culinary school training or certification.
  • Experience with Italian cuisine or familiarity with Buca's menu offerings.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and chop vegetables, meats, and other ingredients according to recipes and chef specifications.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and prep areas, adhering to food safety standards.
  • Assist in inventory management by tracking ingredient levels and notifying supervisors of shortages.
  • Collaborate with chefs and kitchen staff to ensure timely and efficient meal preparation.
  • Participate in daily kitchen operations, including cleaning, stocking, and maintaining equipment.

Skills:

The required skills for this position include strong knife skills and the ability to prepare ingredients efficiently, which are essential for maintaining the flow of kitchen operations. Attention to detail is crucial, as the Prep Cook must ensure that all ingredients are prepared to the chef's specifications. Time management skills are also important, as the Prep Cook will need to prioritize tasks to meet the demands of the kitchen. Preferred skills, such as knowledge of Italian cuisine, will enhance the Prep Cook's ability to contribute to menu preparation and creativity. Overall, a combination of these skills will enable the Prep Cook to support the culinary team effectively and help deliver a memorable dining experience.

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