ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Prep Cook Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

bartaco

Prep Cook

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Keep the kitchen stocked with fresh, high-quality ingredients for service * Assist with receiving ... Previous prep cook or fast-paced kitchen experience is a plus * Knowledge of kitchen equipment ...

maman | ballston

Prep Cook

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Maman - Prep Cook/Baker maman is a french bakery, café and leading lifestyle brand founded in 2014 ... Properly label, date, and store all food items to maintain freshness and minimize waste. * Assist ...

Benihana

Prep Cook

Simpsonville, MD · On-site

$15/hr

Execute all menu items with proper technique, timing, and attention to detail * Assist with daily ... Previous experience as a Line Cook, Prep Cook, or similar kitchen role in a high-volume restaurant

Sandstone Care

Part Time Prep Cook

Crownsville, MD · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Prep Cook / Delivery Driver Work Environment/Location: Teen Residential Treatment Center Schedule ... Food Preparation & Cooking: Assist in preparing and cooking meals according to menu plans, dietary ...

Sandstone Care

Part Time Prep Cook

Crownsville, MD · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Prep Cook / Delivery Driver Work Environment/Location: Teen Residential Treatment Center Schedule ... Food Preparation & Cooking: Assist in preparing and cooking meals according to menu plans, dietary ...

Sandstone Care

Part Time Prep Cook

Crownsville, MD · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Prep Cook / Delivery Driver Work Environment/Location: Teen Residential Treatment Center Schedule ... Food Preparation & Cooking: Assist in preparing and cooking meals according to menu plans, dietary ...

Sandstone Care

Part Time Prep Cook

Crownsville, MD · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Prep Cook / Delivery Driver Work Environment/Location: Teen Residential Treatment Center Schedule ... Food Preparation & Cooking: Assist in preparing and cooking meals according to menu plans, dietary ...

Another Broken Egg Cafe

Prep Cook

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

... are met. Assist in preparing quality products through consistent execution of all prep lists, with a sense of urgency, for the cooking process and according to company standards all the while ...

Banditos Arlington

Prep Cook

Arlington, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

We are building our Kitchen Team and are currently searching for an energetic and reliable Line/Prep Cook who will assist with the daily operations of the Banditos team. Essential Duties and ...

Erickson

Prep Cook

Catonsville, MD

$13.50 - $17/hr

Charlestown by Erickson Senior Living Join our team as a Prep Cook if you're passionate about food ... * Assist in the consistent preparation all food items according to proper safety and cooking ...

Banditos Columbia

Prep Cook

Columbia, MD · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

We are building our Kitchen Team and are currently searching for an energetic and reliable Line/Prep Cook who will assist with the daily operations of the Banditos team. Essential Duties and ...

Erickson Senior Living

Prep Cook

Catonsville, MD · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Charlestown by Erickson Senior Living Join our team as a Prep Cook if you're passionate about food ... * Assist in the consistent preparation all food items according to proper safety and cooking ...

Erickson

Prep Cook

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

Location: Riderwood Village by Erickson Senior Living Join our team as a Prep Cook if you're ... * Assist in the consistent preparation all food items according to proper safety and cooking ...

Erickson Senior Living

Prep Cook

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Ashby Ponds by Erickson Senior Living Join our team as a Prep Cook i f you're passionate about food ... * Assist in the consistent preparation all food items according to proper safety and cooking ...

Compass Group

PREP COOK

College Park, MD · On-site

$22/hr

Previous 1 year of prep cooking experience required. *Internal Employee Referral Bonus Available ... The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with ...

Compass Group

PREP COOK

Washington, DC · On-site

$22.05/hr

Previous prep cooking experience is required. * Fixed Pay Rate: $22.05 per hour. We Make Applying ... The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with ...

Erickson Senior Living

Prep Cook

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Join our team as a Prep Cook if you're passionate about food and teamwork, with culinary experience ... * Assist in the consistent preparation all food items according to proper safety and cooking ...

Erickson

Prep Cook

Ashburn, VA

$17 - $19/hr

Ashby Ponds by Erickson Senior Living Join our team as a Prep Cook i f you're passionate about food ... * Assist in the consistent preparation all food items according to proper safety and cooking ...

Erickson

Prep Cook

Fairfax, VA

$18 - $21/hr

Join our team as a Prep Cook if you're passionate about food and teamwork, with culinary experience ... * Assist in the consistent preparation all food items according to proper safety and cooking ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPrep Cook JobsAssistant Prep Cook JobsAssistant Prep Cook Jobs in Washington, DC

Assistant Prep Cook information

See Washington, DC salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do assistant prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant prep cook in Washington, DC is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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. They often work part-time or full-time shifts in kitchens, and wages can increase with experience or additional skills such as knife proficiency or food safety certifications.

Is an assistant prep cook an entry level job?

Yes, an assistant prep cook is typically an entry-level position in the culinary industry. It often requires basic cooking skills, such as knife handling and food preparation, and provides opportunities to gain experience and learn kitchen operations. Most employers do not require prior professional experience for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs in Washington, DC are:

Assistant Prep Cook jobs near you

Prep Cook

bartaco

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Bartaco rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Part-time
Description
At bartaco, food is our passion-but people are our purpose. We invest in our team because they're at the heart of everything we do. Whether you're growing into a culinary, leadership, or hospitality role, bartaco is the place to learn, succeed, and thrive.
Founded in 2010 and inspired by a healthy, outdoor lifestyle, bartaco combines fresh, upscale street food with a coastal vibe in a relaxed environment. With more than 30 locations across the country, bartaco remains committed to delivering good vibes, inspiration, and joy to one guest, one employee, and one community at a time. We're guest-obsessed and culture-driven.
We're guest-obsessed and culture-driven. Our touchstones - Pride, Good People, Accountability, Growth, Transparency, and Fun - guide how we work together to create unforgettable experiences for our guests.
What you'll do as a Prep Cook:
  • Prepare ingredients and food items according to bartaco's recipes and quality standards
  • Keep the kitchen stocked with fresh, high-quality ingredients for service
  • Assist with receiving, storing, and organizing deliveries
  • Set up and break down prep stations each shift
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe prep area following food safety standards
  • Support the kitchen team to ensure smooth service flow
  • Pitch in with other kitchen tasks as needed to create memorable dining experiences

What we're looking for:
  • Previous prep cook or fast-paced kitchen experience is a plus
  • Knowledge of kitchen equipment, cooking methods, and food safety standards
  • Ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining attention to detail
  • Positive, team-oriented attitude with willingness to learn and help wherever needed
  • Flexible schedule (nights, weekends, holidays)

Perks + Benefits:
  • Competitive pay + career advancement opportunities
  • Meal discounts + fun, fast-paced work environment
  • Paid time off + 401k with match
  • Health, dental, vision insurance
  • Wellness, gym, fitness, + pet care discounts
  • Student loan assistance + language learning opportunities

Requirements
It's a vibe. It's a mindset. It's bartaco.
For more information about living the #bartacolife, visit www.bartaco.com and follow @bartacolife on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
Salary Description
Pay: $19 -$23 per hour

What Bartaco employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply