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Chefs Assistant Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Assistant, Sous Chef

Oakville, CA

$57K - $77K/yr

The Assistant Sous Chef plays a key role in maintaining the highest standards of food preparation ... senior chefs while embracing opportunities for professional growth. Operational and Fiscal ...

Assistant, Sous Chef

Napa, CA · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

The Assistant Sous Chef plays a key role in maintaining the highest standards of food preparation ... senior chefs while embracing opportunities for professional growth. Operational and Fiscal ...

Assistant, Sous Chef

Napa, CA · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

The Assistant Sous Chef plays a key role in maintaining the highest standards of food preparation ... senior chefs while embracing opportunities for professional growth. Operational and Fiscal ...

Assistant, Sous Chef

Oakville, CA · On-site

$57K - $77K/yr

The Assistant Sous Chef plays a key role in maintaining the highest standards of food preparation ... senior chefs while embracing opportunities for professional growth. Operational and Fiscal ...

Chef

Occidental, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Commis Chef Our camp and conference grounds is seeking a dependable, team-oriented Commis Chef to ... Responsibilities * Assist with daily meal preparation and cooking * Prepare ingredients including ...

Chef

Occidental, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Commis Chef Our camp and conference grounds is seeking a dependable, team-oriented Commis Chef to ... Responsibilities * Assist with daily meal preparation and cooking * Prepare ingredients including ...

Sous Chef

Napa, CA · On-site

$70K - $71K/yr

Join Archer Hotel Napa as a Sous Chef and become part of a passionate culinary team focused on ... Reports to work punctually and assist in the event of an emergency. * Lead coach the team towards ...

Sous Chef

Napa, CA · On-site

$70K - $71K/yr

Join Archer Hotel Napa as a Sous Chef and become part of a passionate culinary team focused on ... Reports to work punctually and assist in the event of an emergency. * Lead coach the team towards ...

Chef de Partie

Healdsburg, CA

$21.75 - $27.50/hr

Responsible for the efficient, consistent, accurate and organized production of mise en place requested by the Sous Chefs, Chef de Cuisine, and Executive Chef/Owner. Assist in training and mentoring ...

Sous Chef

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$57K - $77K/yr

Sous Chef Opportunity at Maréla Maréla is a coastal European-inspired restaurant rooted in the ... Maintain cleanliness, organization, and efficiency of all kitchen areas * Assist with scheduling ...

PM Sous Chef

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

In the absence of the Executive Chef, the Sous Chef may assume responsibility for overseeing daily ... * Assist with the planning, preparation, and execution of daily meals, special events, private ...

Responsible for the efficient, consistent, accurate and organized production of mise en place requested by the Sous Chefs, Chef de Cuisine, and Executive Chef/Owner. Assist in training and mentoring ...

Sous Chef

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$80K/yr

Maintain cleanliness, organization, and efficiency of all kitchen areas * Assist with scheduling ... Partner with the Executive Chef on seasonal menu updates and daily features * Contribute ideas that ...

Join Archer Hotel Napa as a Banquet Sous Chef and help lead exceptional culinary experiences for ... Report to work punctually and assist in the event of an emergency. * Lead coach the team toward ...

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Chefs Assistant information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

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How much do chefs assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for chefs assistant in Santa Rosa, CA is $20.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $23.12 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 Santa Rosa, CA? For Chefs Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chefs Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Chefs Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Chefs Assistant jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Chefs Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Chefs Assistant job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,291 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Manufacturing R&D Culinary Assistant

Manufacturing R&D Culinary Assistant

Amy's Kitchen, Inc.

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 hours ago


Amy's Kitchen rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

295th of 433 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

About Amy's
At Amy's Kitchen, we're more than just a food company- we're a family-owned, proudly independent organic, and vegetarian food company on a mission. As a Certified B Corporation®, our purpose is clear: to make it simple and enjoyable for everyone to eat well.
We're committed to crafting authentic, mouthwatering dishes using only the finest organic ingredients sourced with care. From farm to table, we ensure top-notch quality in every bite, making healthy eating accessible and convenient for all. At Amy's, we're not just serving meals; we're serving up a taste of goodness, one delicious dish at a time.
Shift: 1st | 5am start time
Pay: $26-36/hr.
Location: 2330 Northpoint Parkway, Santa Rosa, CA 95407
Amy's Perks:
  • A fun and safe atmosphere where teamwork is encouraged
  • Weeks of on-the-job training for your new role
  • Discount on Amy's products
  • Opportunities to grow and advance your career
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package
  • Affordable Amy's meals on-site for lunch and dinner
  • Bonus incentives based on attendance and safety
  • Referral Bonuses
  • Safety Shoe Program, covered by Amy's
  • 401k program (up to 4% contribution matching after 1 year)
  • Parental Leave Program
  • Education reimbursement; scholarship Program
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Unpaid Time Off options

SUMMARY
The Manufacturing R&D Culinary Assistant will assist in the development of all new and reformulated products for Amy's Kitchen. They will assist in the preliminary preparation, cooking and assembling of new products. The Manufacturing R&D Culinary 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 as needed. The Manufacturing R&D Culinary Assistant will spend some of their day working in the production areas of the plant(s). This role will carry out all R&D activities on the production floor working to ensure proper scale-up of recipes.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Includes the following, other duties may be assigned as needed.
  • Learn and understand the processes for manufacturing our products.
  • Execute recipe cooking in kitchen during scale-up.
  • Maintain R&D samples in holding freezer, making sure all products are organized.
  • Learn and understand formulations and batch sheets.
  • Execute all types of batch sheets and/or formulations, following standard procedures and ensuring that all pertinent information is accurate and properly documented.
  • Track all recipe changes and other pertinent information needed for scale-up activities.
  • Check all ingredients and intermediate foods to verify they match batch sheet requirements, and are made to standard.
  • Independent troubleshooting of scale up issues. Report back to management with recommendations to address issues.
  • Understand the safe use of all equipment (Current equipment as well as new/test equipment units).
  • Instruct production staff on use of equipment for all new production runs.
  • Taste products frequently ensuring they are meeting R&D standards.
  • Execute all instructions given to them by R&D manger and chef.
  • It is the responsibility of all employees to uphold the mission of the Amy's Food Safety and Quality Policy. This includes following all Food Safety and Sustainability programs and participating in all required training.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Strong working knowledge of Amy's Kitchen manufacturing and production processes.
  • Must have ability to communicate effectively.
  • Strong English Skills (both written and verbal) required.
  • Must have ability to multi-task and prioritize.
  • Team oriented.
  • Ability to take initiative; self starter.
  • Basic computer skills/knowledge.
  • Basic math skills.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
  • Culinary technical degree, or five to seven years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS
  • Ability to read and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or government regulations.
  • Ability to write business correspondence.
  • Ability to effectively present information to coworkers at a peer level and respond to questions from coworkers, supervisors or managers.

MATHMATICAL SKILLS
  • Ability to work with basic mathematical concepts (addition, subtraction, etc.)
  • Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.

REASONING ABILITY
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
  • Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral , diagram, or schedule form.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to stand and walk, use hands to handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, talk or hear, and taste or smell. The employee will occasionally push, pull, lift and/or move 50 - 65 pounds, and
team lift over 100 pounds. No specific vision abilities are required for this position.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
While performing the essential functions of the job the employee may be exposed to and/or work near
moving mechanical parts, wet and/or humid conditions or extreme cold. The noise level is usually
moderate. The position requires frequent movement, reaching, stretching, lifting, pulling, pushing and
rapid movements.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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