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Chef In Training Jobs in Nipomo, CA (NOW HIRING)

Brigaid

Santa Maria Brigaid Chef

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Santa Maria Program Chef Location: Santa Maria, CA Compensation: $70,400 plus full benefits ... Providing ongoing training and professional development for foodservice teams in culinary ...

Brigaid

Santa Maria Brigaid Chef

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Santa Maria Program Chef Location: Santa Maria, CA Compensation: $70,400 plus full benefits ... Providing ongoing training and professional development for foodservice teams in culinary ...

Brigaid

Santa Maria Brigaid Chef

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Santa Maria Program Chef Location: Santa Maria, CA Compensation: $70,400 plus full benefits ... Providing ongoing training and professional development for foodservice teams in culinary ...

Happy Senior Living Inc

Chef

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

Ensures that all food and supplies are in place properly stored. * Maintains all Title 22 ... Maintains all annual required training for kitchen personnel through Relias. * Ensures cleanliness ...

Brigaid

Santa Maria Brigaid Chef

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

Santa Maria Program Chef Location: Santa Maria, CA Compensation: $70,400 plus full benefits ... Providing ongoing training and professional development for foodservice teams in culinary ...

Rose Care Group Inc

Chef (Per Diem)

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Ensures that all food and supplies are in place properly stored. * Maintains all Title 22 ... Maintains all annual required training for kitchen personnel through Relias. * Ensures cleanliness ...

Compass Group

CHEF, SOUS I

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

We are challenging the norm and setting new standards by investing in high-tech, food-infused ... Supervisory, leadership, training, management, and coaching skills. * ServSafe or Department of ...

Compass Group

CHEF, SOUS I

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

We are challenging the norm and setting new standards by investing in high-tech, food-infused ... Supervisory, leadership, training, management, and coaching skills. * ServSafe or Department of ...

VTCSM

Chef Manager CSLO20260511

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$25/hr

The Chef Manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day kitchen operations in accordance with ... Experience supervising and training staff in a food service environment preferred. Communication ...

VTCSM

Chef Manager CSLO20260511

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$26/hr

The Chef Manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day kitchen operations in accordance with ... Experience supervising and training staff in a food service environment preferred. Communication ...

BEACON

Chef Manager CSLO20260511

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

The Chef Manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day kitchen operations in accordance with ... Experience supervising and training staff in a food service environment preferred. Communication ...

BEACON

Chef Manager CSLO20260511

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$25/hr

The Chef Manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day kitchen operations in accordance with ... Experience supervising and training staff in a food service environment preferred. Communication ...

Branzino

Line Cook

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

... in the world like Chef Michael Mina and Chef Daniel Elmaleh, and worked at internationally ... Benefits Training & career growth opportunities 50% discount on-shift meals 30% discount off-shift ...

Lure Fish House

Kitchen Supervisor

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

They work under the Executive Chef and are in charge of a team of cooks. We offer: - Rate $65,000 ... Formal culinary training in food preparation and culinary management * Proficiency in various ...

Fishlovers SLO LLC

Kitchen Supervisor

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

They work under the Executive Chef and are in charge of a team of cooks. We offer: - Rate $65,000 ... Formal culinary training in food preparation and culinary management * Proficiency in various ...

Lure Fish House

Kitchen Supervisor

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

They work under the Executive Chef and are in charge of a team of cooks. We offer: - Rate $65,000 ... Formal culinary training in food preparation and culinary management * Proficiency in various ...

VTCSM

Cook 1 BR20260504

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$22.48/hr

Any variations to recipes must be approved by the Executive Chef. * Prepares all food items in ... Participates in ongoing training and professional development as required by the dining facility.

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All JobsChef In Training JobsChef In Training Jobs in Nipomo, CA

Chef In Training information

See Nipomo, CA salary details

$10

$25

$46

How much do chef in training jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef in training in Nipomo, CA is $25.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $32.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chef in training?

A Chef In Training is someone who is learning the skills and techniques needed to become a professional chef. This role typically involves working under the supervision of experienced chefs, assisting with food preparation, and learning about kitchen operations. The position can be part of a formal culinary school program or an apprenticeship in a restaurant. Chef In Training roles are essential for gaining hands-on experience and building a foundation in the culinary arts.

What are some common challenges faced by chefs in training during their early stages in a professional kitchen?

Chefs in training often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and learning to work efficiently under pressure. Adjusting to the high standards of food quality and presentation, as well as building effective communication with experienced chefs and kitchen staff, can also be demanding. However, overcoming these obstacles is essential for skill development and can lead to valuable mentorship and growth opportunities within the culinary field.

Is 25 too late to become a chef in training?

There is no age limit to becoming a chef in training, as many culinary programs and kitchens welcome individuals of various ages. Starting at 25 can be advantageous, as you may bring maturity, life experience, and a strong work ethic that are valuable in culinary environments. Success depends on dedication, skill development, and gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chef in training, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chef In Training, you need basic culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and a high school diploma or culinary school enrollment. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food handling protocols, and industry-standard tools like knives and mixers is essential. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that set aspiring chefs apart. These competencies ensure a solid foundation for learning, maintaining kitchen safety, and contributing positively to a professional kitchen environment.

What is the difference between Chef In Training vs Line Cook?

AspectChef In TrainingLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training, sometimes a culinary school backgroundPractical kitchen experience, often on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentLearning-focused, under supervision, assisting chefsFast-paced kitchen, preparing specific dishes
Industry UsageEntry-level culinary role, part of career developmentOperational role in restaurants, hotels, catering

Chef In Training and Line Cook roles both serve as entry points in the culinary industry. While Chef In Training focuses on learning and skill development under supervision, a Line Cook is responsible for executing specific dishes in a busy kitchen environment. Both positions require practical experience, but the Chef In Training role emphasizes education and mentorship, whereas the Line Cook role emphasizes hands-on cooking skills.

What job categories do people searching Chef In Training jobs in Nipomo, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Chef In Training jobs in Nipomo, CA are:

What cities near Nipomo, CA are hiring for Chef In Training jobs?

Cities near Nipomo, CA with the most Chef In Training job openings:

Chef In Training jobs near you

Santa Maria Brigaid Chef

Brigaid

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Santa Maria Brigaid Chef
Job Status: Full-time Exempt (with summers off)
Brigaid Supervisor: Santa Maria Program Chef
Location: Santa Maria, CA
Compensation: $70,400 plus full benefits (inclusive of a paid summer holiday break)
We're hiring a chef to support our work in Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD)!
Since 2016, we've been redefining what it means to be a successful chef by partnering with institutional foodservice programs across the US. Our team brings the systems and solutions to help kitchens consistently and confidently prepare high-quality meals. Demand for our services is growing faster than ever. In the past 5 years alone, we've expanded from a team of 5 chefs to a coast-to-coast network of 70 and counting.
About Our Partnership With SMJUHSD:
Located in northern Santa Barbara County, Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) serves more than 9,000 students across three high schools.
The district's foodservice program serves breakfast and lunch daily from three full-service production kitchens. As part of this partnership, the Brigaid Chef will provide hands-on culinary, operational, and training support to advance the district's foodservice goals, including:
  • Supporting the district-wide implementation of at least eight outdoor serving areas with serving carts across all three high school campuses during the initial rollout and continued expansion of the program
  • Providing ongoing training and professional development for foodservice teams in culinary techniques, scratch cooking, food safety, recipe execution, National School Lunch Program (NSLP) compliance, and operational best practices
  • Supporting the implementation and expansion of scratch cooking through standardized recipes, production systems, and staff development
  • Improving the quality, consistency, and presentation of menu offerings
  • Increasing student satisfaction and meal participation by improving meal quality, service, and accessibility through expanded points of service
  • Supporting standardized systems and continuous improvement across all district kitchens

As a Brigaid Chef, you'll work in SMJUHSD through the school year (with summers off), collaborating closely with the Santa Maria Program Chef to support the above goals. A focus of your work will be to implement serving carts in various locations across all campuses, both indoors and outdoors. Although the district will have ultimate authority over the program's strategic direction, you'll be instrumental in driving change.
What the Position Entails:
Your work will depend on the needs of the program. You may be asked to fulfill any of the following responsibilities.
Training
  • Work with the Santa Maria Program Chef to implement new systems/protocols (such as kitchen organization, serving line setup, food storage, and HACCP programs).
  • Conduct regular staff training across sites on basic culinary, safety, and operational best practices in accordance with our standards.
  • Work with the Santa Maria Program Chef to roll out kitchen signs and tools across sites from our catalog of training materials.
  • Regularly visit sites to assess progress.

Recipes/Menus
  • Work with the Santa Maria Program Chef to develop recipes and menus in compliance with the NSLP.
  • Work with the Santa Maria Program Chef to develop and implement a plan to roll out new menu items with an eye towards consistency and quality across all sites.
  • Work with the Santa Maria Program Chef to plan and execute student tastings for new menu items. Gather staff and student feedback and incorporate it into menu planning as appropriate.

Other
  • Participate in occasional district- or community-wide events, such as career fairs, back-to-school nights, and community meals.
  • Document your progress in a daily journal and discuss with the Santa Maria Program Chef during regular Zoom calls.
  • Participate in meetings with your district's foodservice director and/or other stakeholders.
  • Adhere to all of our protocols and standards as well as those of the district as outlined in our respective employee handbooks.
  • Adhere to all United States Department of Agriculture and Department of Health guidelines and regulations.
  • Assist with any other job-related tasks, including, but not limited to, receiving and storing food and supplies, setting up and breaking down kitchens, scaling recipes, preparing, packing and serving food, cleaning kitchens, and doing dishes.

How You'll Be Successful:
  • Model the highest standards for food quality and safety, organization, and professionalism.
  • Demonstrate a genuine passion for institutional foodservice.
  • Remain open to different visions of "good food."
  • Display a strong understanding of (or an ability to learn) NSLP guidelines.
  • Exhibit excellent leadership and teaching abilities.
  • Work effectively and patiently with teammates and colleagues of different professional backgrounds. Be eager to collaborate.
  • Understand how to develop, organize, and drive projects forward while working with multiple stakeholders.
  • Exhibit expert knowledge of foundational cooking techniques as well as an ability to train people of various experience levels on them.
  • Demonstrate basic computer literacy, including Microsoft and Google programs and Zoom.
  • Be flexible in accommodating changes in schedule.
  • Understand how to prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively.

Professional Requirements:
  • At least 3 years of professional cooking experience in a non-institutional setting (High-volume cooking experience is a plus.)
  • ServSafe Manager certified or the ability to take a Brigaid-sponsored 8-hour ServSafe Manager course and pass the exam during your initial training period
  • Successful completion of two to three background checks prior to your start date

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to travel across sites in an efficient manner (with the possibility of carrying kitchen/culinary equipment during this travel)
  • Ability to lift and carry objects up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to walk around and stand for long periods of time
  • Ability to perform duties outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions, including direct sun and heat
  • Proof of a negative skin prick TB test

Why Us:
Our goal is for every team member to feel empowered and excited by their work. We cheer each other on, celebrate big and small wins, and foster professional growth through a comprehensive leadership training series.
We're proud to offer:
  • 100% company-paid health insurance for you and your family - a gold level plan through Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield with a platinum level plan buy-up option as well
  • 100% company-paid dental insurance for you and your family through Guardian
  • 100% company-paid vision insurance for you and your family through Guardian
  • 100% company-paid short- and long-term care insurance through Guardian
  • 6 paid vacation days to start
  • Paid summer vacation
  • 15 paid company holidays
  • 6 paid sick days
  • A 401k with a 4% company match and immediate vesting

How to Apply:
Please submit a resume. We'll contact qualified candidates to participate in a first-round, 30-minute Zoom interview. After that, selected candidates will be invited to a 3-hour in-person practical interview in Santa Maria, CA. To be considered, you must be able to attend this in-person interview. A travel stipend of $250 will be offered to each candidate living more than 120 miles away from Santa Maria. Should you live farther than 120 miles from Santa Maria and get offered the position, we will support your relocation to an area commutable to Santa Maria by providing you with a one-time, lump sum $5,000 moving stipend (subject to tax).
Please note: We read every application! However, due to the high volume of applicants, our team is only able to contact qualified candidates. Although we appreciate your excitement, we kindly ask that you refrain from emailing or calling us about your application status. Thank you!
We're an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, socio-economic status, marital status, national or ethnic origin, age, religion or creed, disability, political or sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic under state or federal law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities as defined by the ADA to perform the essential functions of the job.

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