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Buffet Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pastry Cook

Big Sur, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Are you interested in working as a Pastry Cook to support a creative culinary team, where you will ... buffet and a spectacular setting with endless ocean views. Guests can relax by the pools and take ...

Banquet Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22.47/hr

Under general guidance of the Executive Chef, check and set-up menu items and replace as necessary, prepare buffet items as needed, prepare and cook menu items, and perform banquet preparation and ...

Are you interested in working as a Pastry Cook to support a creative culinary team, where you will ... buffet and a spectacular setting with endless ocean views. Guests can relax by the pools and take ...

Are you interested in working as a Pastry Cook to support a creative culinary team, where you will ... buffet and a spectacular setting with endless ocean views. Guests can relax by the pools and take ...

Cook

Cypress, CA

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Basic understanding of buffet receptions, upscale plated menu items, volume batch cooking ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Interacts in a positive, professional manner with patients ...

Cook

Cypress, CA

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Basic understanding of buffet receptions, upscale plated menu items, volume batch cooking ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Interacts in a positive, professional manner with patients ...

Cook

Cypress, CA

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Basic understanding of buffet receptions, upscale plated menu items, volume batch cooking ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Interacts in a positive, professional manner with patients ...

Cook

Cypress, CA

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Basic understanding of buffet receptions, upscale plated menu items, volume batch cooking ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Interacts in a positive, professional manner with patients ...

Banquet Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22.47/hr

Under general guidance of the Executive Chef, check and set-up menu items and replace as necessary, prepare buffet items as needed, prepare and cook menu items, and perform banquet preparation and ...

Showing results 41-60

Buffet Cook information

See California salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do buffet cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for buffet cook in California is $15.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by buffet cooks and how can they be managed effectively?

Buffet cooks often face the challenge of maintaining food quality and safety while producing dishes in large quantities. Managing multiple dishes at different temperatures and ensuring that food is replenished promptly without waste requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Effective communication with front-of-house staff is essential to anticipate guest needs and respond quickly to changes in demand. Staying calm during busy periods and being adaptable are key traits that help buffet cooks thrive in this fast-paced environment.

What does a buffet cook do?

A Buffet Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting a variety of dishes for buffet-style dining. They ensure that food stations are well-stocked, visually appealing, and meet food safety standards. Buffet Cooks often work in restaurants, hotels, or catering events, coordinating with other kitchen staff to maintain a steady flow of fresh food. Their role includes monitoring food temperatures, replenishing items as needed, and sometimes interacting with guests to accommodate special requests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a buffet cook?

To thrive as a Buffet Cook, you need solid culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and experience in preparing large quantities of food efficiently. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food temperature monitoring systems, and sometimes a food handler’s certification are typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and strong teamwork are essential soft skills for maintaining quality and ensuring smooth operations during busy service times. These abilities are crucial to delivering consistent, safe, and appealing food presentations for high volumes of guests.

What are popular job titles related to Buffet Cook jobs in California?

For Buffet Cook jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Buffet Cook jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Buffet Cook jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Buffet Cook job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,903 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description


Are you interested in working as a Pastry Cook to support a creative culinary team, where you will be encouraged to be the best, and have the freedom to play with local Big Sur ingredients? We invite you to join a friendly and innovative team of dedicated hospitality professionals to provide a world class guest experience at Post Ranch Inn. 
Sierra Mar
, the world renowned restaurant at the Post Ranch Inn, is looking for an experienced Pastry Cook with full time availability. The right candidates will have prior experience cooking in a fine dining restaurant or boutique hotel, and will have a flexible schedule - able to work mornings, evenings, holidays and weekends as necessary. 
Essential Requirements:

  • 2 - 3 Years experience as a Pastry Cook at a 4/5 star hotel or restaurant.
  • CA Food Handler Permit OR ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
  • Ability to communicate legibly in English with guests, co-workers and management to their understanding.
  • Ability to do basic arithmetic.

Pay range for the Pastry Cook position is $22.00 - $24.00 per hour
ABOUT US: Post Ranch Inn is one of the most acclaimed luxury resorts in the world and is consistently listed as one of the world's best places to stay. Embracing the dramatic beauty of the California coastline with its cliffs, mountains, and panoramic ocean views, the 39 guest rooms and private homes blend rustic elegance with luxury and comfort, intertwined with a strong commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
Post Ranch Inn is a member of the prestigious Preferred Boutique Hotel group, and hotel amenities include the Sierra Mar restaurant.  This Wine Spectator Grand-Award winning restaurant offers exquisite dining with a menu that changes daily, complimentary gourmet breakfast buffet and a spectacular setting with endless ocean views. Guests can relax by the pools and take in the splendid views; rejuvenate with an in-room massage, spa treatment or yoga class; or explore all that nature has to offer.  Picturesque Monterey and Carmel are a short drive away.
Post Ranch Inn offers its employees a chance to experience Big Sur at its finest. We offer very competitive benefits which include affordable insurance plans, paid vacation and sick time, 401K Retirement Matching Contribution, discounts throughout the property and Guest Experience Stays. Post Ranch Inn is also proud to offer onsite employee housing (based on availability - not currently available for this role)