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Assistant Prep Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Equator Coffees

Prep Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prep Cook - Retail Cafe - Round House CLASSIFICATION​: Non-Exempt REPORTS TO: Café General ... Maintain clean, food-safe prep stations, dishes, and overall kitchen environment. * Assist with ...

Flagship Facility Services

Prep Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Check out a day in the life of a Prep Cook The pay rate or range for this position is: $33.00 per ... Responsible for preparing ingredients for production according to recipes/directions. * Assist with ...

Flecha Cantina

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 ...

Equator Coffees

Prep Cook

San Francisco, CA

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prep Cook - Retail Cafe - Round House CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt REPORTS TO: Cafe General Manager ... Maintain clean, food-safe prep stations, dishes, and overall kitchen environment. * Assist with ...

Just Fare

Prep Cook

Oakland, CA · On-site

$22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Prep Cook will perform basic prep skills, monitor inventory and assist in creation of all craft items, including in-house sauces, condiments, etc. About Just Fare Just Fare is building a just ...

Lucania

Prep Cook

San Francisco, CA

$19.61 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Line Cook Prep with Intention. Build the Foundation. Respect the Ingredient. Exceptional ... Receive deliveries and assist with proper product storage and organization when required.

New

Flagship Facility Services

Prep Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Check out a day in the life of a Prep Cook The pay rate or range for this position is: $33.00 per ... * Assist in the production of food for breakfast, lunch, dinner and catered events. * Follows ...

Arya Restaurant

Prep Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

Prep Cook Shiraz Restaurant Sherman Oaks, CA This isn't just your next job it's your opportunity to ... Responsibilities include: * Assist with food preparation, including washing, chopping, slicing ...

TKS Restaurants

Prep Cook

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Job purpose Assists line cook in preparing and serving of food items. Assist other back of the ... prep cook is preferred but not required. Knowledge of health and safety rules in a kitchen.

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

Prep Cook

Highland, CA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Under the direction of the Sous Chef - F&B, the Prep Cook will assist the Junior Chef in the preparation of dim sum Chinese BBQ and Wok station food, food orders as well as control production levels ...

San Manuel Casino

Prep Cook

Highland, CA

$14.25 - $18/hr

Under the direction of the Sous Chef - F&B, the Prep Cook will assist the Junior Chef in the preparation of dim sum Chinese BBQ and Wok station food, food orders as well as control production levels ...

TKS Restaurants

Prep Cook

Fremont, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Job purpose Assists line cook in preparing and serving of food items. Assist other back of the ... prep cook is preferred but not required. Knowledge of health and safety rules in a kitchen.

Yaamava' Resort & Casino at San Manuel

Be Seen First

Prep Cook

Highland, CA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Under the direction of the Sous Chef - F&B, the Prep Cook will assist the Junior Chef in the preparation of dim sum Chinese BBQ and Wok station food, food orders as well as control production levels ...

New

Sifted LLC

Prep Cook

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The PT Prep Cook/ Server position will be expected to be comfortable in working in one or multiple ... * Assist with daily deep-clean items, comply with and enforce sanitary regulations and safety ...

Tiburon Peninsula Club

Line Cook/Prep Cook

Tiburon, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

As a Line Cook/Prep Cook, you will play a crucial role in meal preparation and ensuring the smooth ... DUTIES: * Assist in the preparation of ingredients for cooking, including chopping vegetables ...

West Coast Restaurants Inc

Cook / Prep

Atascadero, CA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Line Cook / Prep Cook We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Cook/Prep Cook to join our ... Key Responsibilities: - Prepare ingredients and assist in the assembly of dishes according to ...

The h.wood Group

Prep Cook

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

  • Dental

  • Vision

The Prep Cook will assist in the preparation of dishes following the restaurant's standard recipes. The ideal candidate will have a passion for food, has a positive attitude, and will thrive in a ...

The h.wood Group

Prep Cook

West Hollywood, CA

$21 - $23/hr

  • Dental

  • Vision

The Prep Cook will assist in the preparation of dishes following the restaurant's standard recipes. The ideal candidate will have a passion for food, has a positive attitude, and will thrive in a ...

Casa Madera West Hollywood

Prep Cook

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients, simple dishes, condiments, and foundational ... * Assist with receiving, inspecting, rotating, and properly storing ingredients and kitchen ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Simi Valley, CA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... They assist in the receiving of goods, daily inventory of prepared foods, and maintain proper ...

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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

Prep Cook

Equator Coffees

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

POSITION:  Prep Cook - Retail Cafe - Round House

CLASSIFICATION​:  Non-Exempt

REPORTS TO:  Café General Manager

COMPENSATION: $20.00/HOUR

About Equator
In 1995, Equator Founders Helen Russell and Brooke McDonnell began their values-driven path, roasting coffee in a Marin County, CA garage. Possessing an obsessive commitment to green coffee sourcing and unparalleled roasting expertise, Equator has committed over 30 years to sustainable and fair trade coffee practices all in the name of creating a remarkable coffee experience for consumers. Today, Equator Coffees is a retail and wholesale coffee roaster and coffee farm owner with twelve retail cafes throughout California—from Marin County to San Francisco to Oakland to Los Angeles and beyond. Throughout the years, Equator Coffees has spearheaded industry-leading sourcing and roasting practices, and has forged progressive partnerships with Michelin-starred chefs, specialty grocers, tech campuses, and more.  Women-owned, LGBTQ-founded, and an early adopter of Fair Trade and Regenerative Organic certifications, Equator Coffees is the first California coffee roaster to achieve B Corp Certification.

Position Summary 
The Prep Cook plays a key role in supporting the café’s daily operations. This position ensures all food items are prepared with consistency, quality, and care. A successful Prep Cook values food safety, follows recipes with precision, and contributes to a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen environment.

Food Preparation & Quality
  • Prep all cold and hot food items using prep worksheets and standardized recipes.
  • Assemble dishes to spec, ensuring consistent quality and presentation.
  • Cut, peel, wash, and prepare produce.
  • Follow proper knife safety procedures at all times.
  • Operate ovens and hot prep equipment; ensure proper time/temp for all hot and cooked foods.
  • Maintain strict adherence to food safety and quality standards to prevent cross contamination.
  • Follow standardized recipes precisely — including those developed off-site by the culinary team — to ensure consistent flavor, portioning, and guest experience.
Kitchen Maintenance & Safety
  • Maintain clean, food-safe prep stations, dishes, and overall kitchen environment.
  • Assist with dishwashing and cleaning tasks throughout the shift.
  • Take full responsibility for maintaining a clean and organized back-of-house area.
Service & Operations Support
  • Receive and follow through on daily prep lists and orders.
  • Support floor operations as needed, including running food to the counter or dining areas.
  • In cafés without a full kitchen or stove, prepare basic recipes using pre-developed culinary guides.
  • In locations where the Prep Cook is the sole back-of-house team member, take on a wider range of duties including food running, detailed cleaning tasks, and general support to keep operations flowing smoothly.
Qualifications and Requirements
  • Some food preparation experience preferred.
  • Ability to follow instructions, take direction, and work collaboratively as part of a team.
  • Sense of urgency and a hospitable attitude toward guests and coworkers.
  • Ability to maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, leadership, and customers.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
  • Must maintain a current state-issued Food Handler Card.
  • Must be 16 years of age or older.
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 accommodations 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 see, talk, and hear. The employee frequently has to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee also must use hands to handle, feel, and reach. Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for periods of up to 4 hours in length. Required to frequently wash hands and may occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.


Work Environment 
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. This job operates in a kitchen and may be working near co-workers. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Hazards may include, but are not limited to, cuts, slipping, and tripping.

Compensation
  • Available to all employees
    • Commuter Benefits - pre-tax parking and transit
    • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Physical and mental health, financial and legal coaching available at no cost to the employee 
    • Free mental health app subscription
    • Employee discount on merchandise, coffee gear, and at Equator cafes
    • Continuing coffee education classes
    • Free coffee
    • Paid Time Off for voting on Election Day
  • After 60 days as an employee at Equator
    • Healthcare Benefits (for full-time employees working over 30 hours per week)
      • 100% employer-covered premium medical insurance 
      • Voluntary Insurance Plans - dental, vision, long-term disability, pet, and supplementary life insurance
      • Employer covered life insurance premium
      • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) - healthcare and daily dependent care
  • After 90 days as an employee at Equator
    • Holiday Pay after 90 days of employment. Eight Equator-observed holidays per year
    • Paid Time Off with tenured increases for full-time employees
    • 1 paid volunteer day per year 
  • After six months as an employee at Equator
    • 401K with up to a 4% company match on employee contributions

Compensation will be commensurate with experience.

We’d love for you to use the video answer feature for our screening questions! It’s a great way for us to get a better sense of your experience and how comfortable you are discussing your skills. Plus, it helps us see your personality and passion for the role!

This position description intends to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. Job responsibilities can change according to the operational needs of the business. The order in which duties and responsibilities are listed is not significant. 

Equator Coffees is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, and discharge will be based on competence, performance and the business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability or any other applicable legally protected characteristics.