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Assistant Prep Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Food Manager

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$17 - $23.79/hr

Assistant Food Manager Kwik Trip is seeking energetic, outgoing, and positive people to make a ... and food prep • Ability to get others motivated to complete tasks and meet goals • ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Food Manager

Parkersburg, IA · On-site

$16 - $22.26/hr

Assistant Food Manager Kwik Trip is seeking energetic, outgoing, and positive people to make a ... and food prep • Ability to get others motivated to complete tasks and meet goals • ...

Jiffy Lube

Assistant General

Waterloo, IA · On-site

We are seeking an Assistant General Manager with prior Retail Service Management experience ... Employee Assistance Program, Will Prep, Travel Assistance * Full-time employees only Equal ...

Sports Clips

Salon Coordinator

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$10 - $11/hr

... * Assist in marketing efforts, including local neighborhood marketing, social media updates and promotions. * Participate in Sport Clips training - we prep you to feel confident behind the chair by ...

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Assistant Prep information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$8

$18

$28

How much do assistant prep jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant prep in Waterloo, IA is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Assistant Prep jobs near you

Metal Prep - Paint

Life Line Emergency Vehicles

Sumner, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Join the Team That Builds Life-Saving Vehicles

Why Life Line?

At Life Line, you won’t just build parts — you’ll help build ambulances that save lives every day. When you join our team, you become part of something bigger. We foster a supportive, team-oriented environment where your skills grow, your hard work is valued, and your contributions truly make a difference.

Position Summary

The Metal Prep-Paint is responsible for preparing and finishing metal surfaces on ambulance components and assemblies, ensuring smooth, defect-free surfaces ready for painting, coating, or assembly. This role is critical for maintaining high-quality standards and supporting the production of durable and visually appealing emergency vehicles.

Key Responsibilities

  • Inspect and prepare metal surfaces of ambulance components for painting or assembly, including sanding, grinding, and smoothing imperfections.
  • Operate hand and power sanding tools, grinders, and related equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Remove rust, weld spatter, and other surface imperfections from metal parts.
  • Apply primers or sealers to prepared metal surfaces as required by specifications.
  • Collaborate with Painters, Buffers, Assemblers, and Quality Control to ensure surfaces meet visual and structural standards.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
  • Assist with moving, staging, and organizing metal components for production workflow.
  • Document and communicate progress, issues, and completed work to supervisors and team leads.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives in surface preparation processes, tools, and materials.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous experience in metal finishing, automotive, or manufacturing industries preferred.
  • Proficiency with hand and power sanding tools, grinders, and surface preparation techniques.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Ability to work in a team environment and follow instructions precisely.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and reach for extended periods
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Ability to work around paint fumes, solvents, and polishing compounds with appropriate PPE

Preferred Experience (Not Required)

  • Experience in ambulance, emergency vehicle, RV, automotive, marine, or aerospace manufacturing
  • Knowledge of aluminum and stainless steel finishing
  • Experience working in a high-mix, custom manufacturing environment

Contingencies of Employment

  • Successful completion of a background check, pre-employment drug screen and physical examination
  • Successful completion of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, if applicable to the position

Equal Opportunity Employer

Life Line is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Work Authorization:
Life Line Emergency Vehicles does not offer employment sponsorship. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.