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Assistant Prep Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Prep Cook Position Summary As a Team Member of the Food and Beverage team, the Prep Cook is a CRCR ... assist and cook on the line, wash dishes, and/or unload orders as necessary. • Proper product ...

Assistant Manager CA

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$22 - $23.50/hr

Conducts food safety and prep audits daily. * Conducts daily inventory monitors performance and shares responsibility for cash procedures. * Assist with schedule creation and deploying the team ...

Assistant Manager CA

Santa Nella, CA · On-site

$22 - $23.50/hr

Conducts food safety and prep audits daily. * Conducts daily inventory monitors performance and shares responsibility for cash procedures. * Assist with schedule creation and deploying the team ...

Conducts food safety and prep audits daily. * Conducts daily inventory monitors performance and shares responsibility for cash procedures. * Assist with schedule creation and deploying the team ...

Assistant Manager CA

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$22 - $23.50/hr

Conducts food safety and prep audits daily. * Conducts daily inventory monitors performance and shares responsibility for cash procedures. * Assist with schedule creation and deploying the team ...

Conducts food safety and prep audits daily. * Conducts daily inventory monitors performance and shares responsibility for cash procedures. * Assist with schedule creation and deploying the team ...

Assistant Manager CA

Livingston, CA · On-site

$22 - $23.50/hr

Conducts food safety and prep audits daily. * Conducts daily inventory monitors performance and shares responsibility for cash procedures. * Assist with schedule creation and deploying the team ...

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Assistant Prep information

See Merced, CA salary details

$9

$20

$30

How much do assistant prep jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant prep in Merced, CA is $20.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant prep?

Assistant Prep workers, often called Prep Assistants or Prep Cooks, are entry-level kitchen staff who support chefs and cooks by preparing ingredients and performing basic cooking tasks. Their duties include washing, peeling, chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, and organizing kitchen stations. They help ensure the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently by maintaining cleanliness and following food safety standards. This role is essential in restaurants and food service operations, providing foundational support for meal preparation.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Prep, you need a solid understanding of basic food preparation techniques, kitchen safety, and hygiene standards, often gained through on-the-job training or a food handler’s certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and standard operating procedures is commonly expected. Attention to detail, time management, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, consistent food quality, and a safe working environment.

What does collaboration between an assistant prep and chefs typically look like in a commercial kitchen?

As an Assistant Prep, you’ll work closely with chefs and line cooks to ensure ingredients are ready and properly portioned for meal service. This collaboration often involves clear communication about prep needs, adjusting priorities during busy periods, and assisting with last-minute requests. Being proactive and organized helps streamline kitchen operations and allows chefs to focus on cooking and plating. Teamwork is essential, and you’ll often receive direct feedback and guidance, making it a great environment for learning culinary skills.

What is the difference between Assistant Prep vs Assistant Teacher?

AspectAssistant PrepAssistant Teacher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; some positions may require teaching assistant certification
Work EnvironmentPreschools, daycare centers, early childhood programsPreschools, elementary schools, educational settings
Employer & Industry UsageEarly childhood education providers, daycare centersSchools, educational institutions, tutoring centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles assisting in early childhoodAssisting teachers in classroom management and instruction

Assistant Prep roles typically focus on supporting early childhood programs with basic caregiving and supervision, often requiring minimal certification. Assistant Teachers work more directly with children in educational settings, assisting teachers with instruction and classroom activities, sometimes requiring additional certifications. Both roles are essential in early education but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Assistant Prep jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Assistant Prep job openings:

Prep Cook - Perch FT

Chicken Ranch

Jamestown, CA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Prep Cook
Position Summary
As a Team Member of the Food and Beverage team, the Prep Cook is a CRCR Ambassador and takes personal ownership to ensure all of their actions are in the best interest of the business. The Prep Cook is responsible for all basic cooking tasks, such as preparing produce, soups, sauces, and proteins that will be utilized in dining outlets. The Prep Cook assists the Chef and Line Cooks, ensuring all ingredients are ready to be cooked.
Position Functions
Essential Functions
• Perform routine kitchen tasks.
• Follow the prep list created to plan duties.
• Label and stock all ingredients on shelves so they can be organized and easily accessible.
• Measure ingredients and seasonings to be used in cooking.
• Prepare cooking ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables, cutting meat, and other meal prep.
• Set up workstations and ingredients so food can be prepared according to recipes.
• Undertake basic cooking duties, such as reducing sauces and parboiling food.
• Prepare simple dishes, such as salads and entrees, while at times operating large-volume cooking equipment.
• Maintain a clean and orderly kitchen by washing dishes, sanitizing surfaces, and removing trash.
• Ensure that all food and other items are stored properly.
• Comply with nutrition and sanitation guidelines.
• Create prep lists and see it through to the very end.
• Prepare ingredients for the production line.
• Stock and maintain inventory levels for Line Cooks.
• May assist and cook on the line, wash dishes, and/or unload orders as necessary.
• Proper product rotation in all chillers to minimize wastage/spoilage.
• Maintain a high level of health and safety standards for the kitchen and workstations and regularly clean and sanitize food preparation areas, cooking surfaces, and utensils.
• Administrative tasks.
• Menu planning and ordering supplies.
• Communicate any changes or substitutions to management.
• Other duties as assigned.
Skills
• Strong listening and communication skills.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Must be able to work independently and maintain a high level of performance.
• Must be able to complete tasks in a timely and efficient manner while maintaining business standards.
• Demonstrates a flock mentality, focused on teamwork and collaboration with others.
• Provides exceptional service to internal and external Guests while leveraging the knowledge of the position and the business, ensuring a clucktastic experience for all.
• Stays engaged and motivated with the business, department, and all Team Members at all levels while encouraging growth and development of self and others.
• Builds lasting relationships by demonstrating honesty, integrity, and effective communication.
• Driven to exceed expectations while remaining accountable and fair.
• Communicates well with protected poultry flocks.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements:
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• 1+ years of cooking experience in a professional kitchen or fast casual setting.
• Must be able to obtain a Food Handler Certificate.
• Knowledge of food preparation principles, practices, and standards.
• Knowledge of basic cooking techniques and how a recipe works.
Preferred qualifications:
• 2+ years of kitchen experience.
Disclaimer
This document is for informational purposes only. A formal job description, including working conditions such as physical requirements, work environment, etc., will be provided for signature during the offer process.