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Chefs Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hashtag Poki, LLC

Chef Assistant

Berkeley, CA · On-site

Company Description Hawaiian Poke Restaurant We are currently looking for a chef assistant to assist with daily food preparation. This position will eventually manage the kitchen few days a week.

Hashtag Poki, LLC

Chef Assistant

Berkeley, CA

Company Description Hawaiian Poke Restaurant We are currently looking for a chef assistant to assist with daily food preparation. This position will eventually manage the kitchen few days a week.

Upper Crust Food Service

Camp Sous Chef

Avalon, CA · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

Camp Sous Chefs assist the Camp Head Chef with food preparation, staff management, and maintaining a clean kitchen and dining area while following safety and sanitation practices. They communicate ...

Amy's Kitchen, Inc.

R&D Chef's Assistant

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

The Chef's Assistant will assist the R&D Chef and R&D Staff in the prepping and executing (cooking) of various tests and tastings, and will assist with all other food preparation in the R&D Kitchen ...

Careers | Il Fornaio

Assistant Chef

San Jose, CA · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

As an Assistant Chef, you'll play a pivotal role in crafting authentic Italian dishes that delight our guests. This onsite position allows you to immerse yourself in our vibrant kitchen culture ...

Il Fornaio Cucina Italiana

Assistant Chef

San Jose, CA · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

As an Assistant Chef, you'll play a pivotal role in crafting authentic Italian dishes that delight our guests. This onsite position allows you to immerse yourself in our vibrant kitchen culture ...

Il Fornaio Cucina Italiana

Assistant Chef

San Jose, CA · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

As an Assistant Chef, you'll play a pivotal role in crafting authentic Italian dishes that delight our guests. This onsite position allows you to immerse yourself in our vibrant kitchen culture ...

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Chefs Assistant information

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How much do chefs assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for chefs assistant in California is $18.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a chef assistant earn?

A chef assistant typically earns between $20,000 and $30,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those working in high-end kitchens can earn higher wages. Compensation may also include tips and benefits based on the employer and work schedule.

What is the difference between Chefs Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectChefs AssistantKitchen Helper
Required CredentialsBasic culinary knowledge, sometimes certificationsMinimal qualifications, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, assisting chefsSupport roles in kitchens, general cleaning and prep
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesFood service establishments, cafeterias
Search & Comparison IntentRoles assisting chefs with food prep and organizationSupport staff helping in kitchen tasks

Chefs Assistants typically have some culinary knowledge and work closely with professional chefs in busy kitchen environments. Kitchen Helpers usually perform basic support tasks like cleaning and prep, often with minimal qualifications. Both roles are essential in food service settings but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What qualifications do you need to be a kitchen assistant?

To be a kitchen assistant, no formal qualifications are typically required, but basic skills in food safety and hygiene are important. Some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, and previous experience in food preparation can be beneficial. Good communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also valuable.

What are some common challenges faced by a Chef's Assistant, and how can they be effectively managed?

As a Chef's Assistant, you may encounter challenges such as working under tight time constraints, adapting to fast-paced kitchen environments, and maintaining consistent food quality. Effective communication with chefs and team members is essential to ensure smooth workflow and prevent errors. Staying organized, being proactive, and continuously learning kitchen procedures can help you manage these challenges successfully while developing valuable culinary skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chef's Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chef's Assistant, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or culinary coursework. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, organized, and high-quality food preparation, supporting the kitchen's smooth operation.

What does a chef's assistant do?

A chef's assistant supports the head chef by preparing ingredients, organizing kitchen tools, and assisting with cooking tasks. They help ensure smooth kitchen operations and may handle cleaning, food prep, and basic cooking under supervision.

What is a chef's assistant called?

A chef's assistant is commonly called a kitchen assistant or culinary assistant. They support chefs by preparing ingredients, cleaning workstations, and assisting with cooking tasks, often requiring knowledge of kitchen safety and basic culinary skills.

What are Chefs Assistants?

Chefs Assistants, also known as kitchen assistants or commis chefs, support chefs in the preparation and cooking of food in professional kitchens. Their duties often include washing, peeling, and chopping ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, organizing kitchen tools, and sometimes helping with basic cooking tasks. Chefs Assistants are crucial for ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently. They often learn essential culinary skills on the job, making this role a common entry point for those interested in a culinary career.
What are popular job titles related to Chefs Assistant jobs in California? For Chefs Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chefs Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Chefs Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Chefs Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Chefs Assistant job openings:
Chefs Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chefs Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,077 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Chef or Chef Assistant

Levant Mediterranean Restaurant - Turkish Cuisine

Hollywood, CA • On-site

$700 - $1.5K/wk

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Mediterranean Chef (Turkish / Persian Cuisine Preferred)

Location: 5527 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Employment Type: Full-Time / Part-Time

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Mediterranean Chef and Chef Assistant with strong knowledge of Arabic, Turkish and/or Persian cuisine. The ideal candidate will be skilled in preparing authentic dishes such as Master Grill, kabobs, rice dishes, and traditional appetizers, while maintaining high standards of food quality, presentation, and kitchen operations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and cook a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including kabobs, rice, and appetizers
  • Ensure consistent food quality, taste, and presentation (plating and decoration)
  • Follow proper food handling, sanitation, and safety regulations
  • Maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment
  • Manage food preparation and daily kitchen operations
  • Monitor and maintain inventory levels
  • Assist with ordering supplies and ingredients
  • Minimize food waste and control kitchen costs
  • Work collaboratively with kitchen staff and management

Qualifications & Requirements:

  • Proven experience as a Mediterranean Chef or similar role
  • Strong knowledge of Turkish and/or Persian cuisine (preferred)
  • Experience preparing kabobs, rice dishes, and traditional appetizers
  • Valid Food Handler Certificate (required)
  • Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong attention to detail in plating and food presentation
  • Good communication and teamwork skills
  • Ability to manage time efficiently and multitask

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in a fine dining or high-volume restaurant
  • Creativity in menu development and plate presentation
  • Familiarity with Mediterranean spices, marinades, and cooking techniques

Compensation:

  • Competitive pay based on experience

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and a brief summary of your experience with Mediterranean cuisine to LEVANTMRC@GMAIL.COM OR call 310-985-9262 ask for Ivan