ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cook Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TEAM SAN JOSE

Cook Helper

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28.64/hr

A Cook Helper assists the Chef or Cook accordingly and must work under supervision. This is an on-call union position, and all individuals in this role are represented by UNITE HERE! Local 19.

Bizzell

Cook Helper

Long Beach, CA

$17.65/hr

Cook Helper Reports To: Food Services Supervisor Department: Food Services FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt Primary Position Objectives Assists the Cooks in preparing, serving, and sanitation of the dining ...

Bizzell Group

Cook Helper

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$17.65/hr

Cook Helper Reports To: Food Services Supervisor Department: Food Services FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt Primary Position Objectives Assists the Cooks in preparing, serving, and sanitation of the dining ...

Bizzell Group

Cook Helper

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$17.65/hr

Cook Helper Reports To: Food Services Supervisor Department: Food Services FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt Primary Position Objectives Assists the Cooks in preparing, serving, and sanitation of the dining ...

CG Staffing Solutions

Be Seen First

cook's Helper

Seaside, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Treat with delimer chemical twice a month. · Cleans and disinfects sink areas, carts, overhead racks and adjacent shelves at the end of each day. · Uses green abrasive pads on cooking equipment.

Lyons Magnus LLC

Cook Helper (Day Shift)

Fresno, CA · On-site

$18/hr

The Cook Helper is responsible for support in the areas of production and related activities in a manner that supports the operations of production of the organization at the Fresno, CA plant. Pay ...

Lyons Magnus LLC

Cook Helper (Day Shift)

Fresno, CA · On-site

$18/hr

The Cook Helper is responsible for support in the areas of production and related activities in a manner that supports the operations of production of the organization at the Fresno, CA plant. Pay ...

Fresh Curry Chefs

Dishwasher / Cook Helper

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

We are seeking a Dishwasher / Cook Helper to join our dedicated kitchen staff! You will assist in the cooking preparation, dishwashing and cleaning in the restaurant. Responsibilities: * Dishwashing ...

Fresh Curry Chefs

Dishwasher / Cook Helper

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

We are seeking a Dishwasher / Cook Helper to join our dedicated kitchen staff! You will assist in the cooking preparation, dishwashing and cleaning in the restaurant. Responsibilities: * Dishwashing ...

TRACY HARBOUR FISH & CHIPS

Cook-Kitchen helper

Tracy, CA

$17.25 - $22/hr

Join Our Team as a Cook-Kitchen Helper at Tracy Harbour Fish and Chips LLC! Looking to dive into the world of food service and be part of a friendly, hardworking team? Tracy Harbour Fish and Chips ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCook Helper JobsCook Helper Jobs in California

Cook Helper information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$21

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in California is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the work of cook helper?

A cook helper assists in food preparation, such as chopping ingredients, cleaning kitchen equipment, and organizing supplies. They support cooks and chefs in maintaining a clean and efficient kitchen environment, often working under supervision and following safety standards.

What's the difference between a cook and a kitchen helper?

A cook is responsible for preparing and cooking food, often with more advanced skills and experience, while a kitchen helper assists with basic tasks such as cleaning, prepping ingredients, and supporting cooks. Kitchen helpers typically perform entry-level duties and may require less training, working under supervision in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cook Helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cook Helper, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and inventory tracking systems is beneficial. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to follow instructions help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, food safety, and effective support for chefs and cooks.

What is the difference between Cook Helper vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectCook HelperKitchen Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skillsHigh school diploma; general kitchen knowledge
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesRestaurants, cafeterias, food service establishments
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in food service industry to assist cooksUsed across various food service settings to support kitchen operations

Cook Helper and Kitchen Assistant roles often overlap, with both supporting kitchen staff in food prep and cleaning. However, Cook Helpers typically focus more on assisting cooks with specific culinary tasks, while Kitchen Assistants handle broader support duties like cleaning and basic prep. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in maintaining efficient kitchen operations.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include high-level positions such as specialized surgeons, senior corporate executives, or successful entrepreneurs. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or significant investment and are less common for entry-level positions like cook helpers.

What are Cook Helpers?

Cook Helpers assist chefs and cooks in preparing and serving food in kitchens. Their duties often include washing and chopping ingredients, cleaning kitchen equipment, organizing supplies, and helping with basic cooking tasks. They play an essential role in maintaining kitchen hygiene and ensuring that food preparation runs smoothly and efficiently. Cook Helpers typically work in restaurants, cafeterias, hotels, or other food service establishments.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 a month without a degree include roles such as certain sales positions, real estate agents, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers who have gained experience and certifications. These jobs often require strong skills, certifications, or licenses, and may involve variable income based on performance or project volume.

What are some common challenges Cook Helpers face during busy meal service times?

Cook Helpers often face the challenge of working efficiently under pressure during peak meal service times. They must keep up with rapidly changing orders, maintain cleanliness, and ensure ingredients are prepped and available for cooks. Balancing speed with attention to detail is crucial, as mistakes can impact food quality and kitchen workflow. Strong communication and teamwork help Cook Helpers support chefs and contribute to a smooth, successful service.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in California? The most popular types of Cook jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in California? For Cook Helper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities in California with the most Cook Helper job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in CA? For Cook Helper jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cook Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,434 per year, or $17 per hour.
Cook Helper

Cook Helper

TEAM SAN JOSE

San Jose, CA • On-site

$28.64/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

A Cook Helper assists the Chef or Cook accordingly and must work under supervision.

This is an on-call union position, and all individuals in this role are represented by UNITE HERE! Local 19.


POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Prepares all the prep work for hot and cold areas.
  • Responsible to supply assigned work station with all needed products and culinary equipment for prompt production.
  • Stores all food in refrigerated boxes including covers, labels and dates, using the proper containers to protect against waste and spoilage.
  • Maintain kitchen area and tools of the trade clean and organize according to department and ECO-SURE standards.
  • Perform other related duties as required.


POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

  • Able to speak, read and write in the English language effectively.
  • Must have a minimum of six (6) months experience in food preparation and fundamentals of cooking.
  • Scheduling flexibility is essential, willing to work evenings, nights, weekends and holidays.
  • MUST have a valid California Food Handler Card.
  • Must have basic knowledge of ECO-SURE sanitation standards.
  • Must have knowledge of operating all kitchen equipment, i.e., stoves, ovens, broilers, slicers, steamers, kettles.
  • Basic mathematical skills necessary to understand recipes, measurements, and portion sizes.
  • Ability to use manual dexterity of hands to move (rotate) goods weighing a maximum of 50 lbs. on a continuous schedule and use all kitchen equipment, i.e., knives, spoons, spatulas, tong, slicers, etc.
  • Ability to perform duties within extreme temperature ranges.
  • Must be able to work in a high stress environment.
  • Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time.
  • Ability to work in confined spaces for long periods of time and perform repetitive tasks.
  • Ability to lift/carry items using proper lifting/carrying procedures up to 80lbs., move heavy items and stand long periods of time.

Team San Jose is an equal opportunity employer.