1

Cook Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

COOK (FULL- TIME)

Torrance, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Experience as a cook or cook's helper in an institutional food service facility is required ... Knowledge/Skills: * Must be able to comprehend and perform oral and written instructions and ...

COOK (FULL- TIME)

Torrance, CA

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Experience as a cook or cook's helper in an institutional food service facility is required ... Knowledge/Skills: * Must be able to comprehend and perform oral and written instructions and ...

Cook - Per Diem

Wildomar, CA · On-site

$21 - $30.38/hr

Qualifications MINIMUM ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCE Ø One year experience as a cook or cook's helper in an institutional food service facility. REQUIRED LICENSURE / CERTIFICATIONS Ø Maintains certification ...

COOK / KITCHEN HELPER

Ontario, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $16.75/hr

Light cooking and cleaning for preschool kids. Wee Care Learning Center 3876 S. Lytle Creek Loop Ontario, CA 91761 Wee Care Learning Center Powered by JazzHR AafxUKgYWT

Apply Early

Interested in Joining?

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

At Taber Company, we are always on the lookout for individuals who embody our core values-integrity, humility, teamwork, safety, accountability, and quality-to join our expanding team. You will have ...

Interested in Joining?

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

At Taber Company, we are always on the lookout for individuals who embody our core values-integrity, humility, teamwork, safety, accountability, and quality-to join our expanding team. You will have ...

Line Cook

San Diego, CA

$19 - $21.50/hr

We need help with cooking, preparing and seasoning soups, meats, pizzas and so much more. We love creativity and people who love cooking! Help us ensure our standard and special menu entrees look and ...

Apply Early

Line Cook

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19 - $21.50/hr

We need help with cooking, preparing and seasoning soups, meats, pizzas and so much more. We love creativity and people who love cooking! Help us ensure our standard and special menu entrees look and ...

Prep cooks help maintain food quality and safety standards, follow recipes precisely, and stay organized throughout the day. Key Responsibilities * Follow prep lists and recipes to prepare ...

Apply Early

This role acts as a bridge between the Sous Chefs and line cooks, helping to ensure standards, systems, and expectations are consistently followed on shift. In addition to cooking responsibilities ...

This role acts as a bridge between the Sous Chefs and line cooks, helping to ensure standards, systems, and expectations are consistently followed on shift. In addition to cooking responsibilities ...

This role acts as a bridge between the Sous Chefs and line cooks, helping to ensure standards, systems, and expectations are consistently followed on shift. In addition to cooking responsibilities ...

Apply Early

Be Seen First

The ideal candidate will assist cooks, maintain cleanliness, and ensure supplies are well-stocked ... helper roles * Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices * Strong teamwork and ...

JOB SUMMARY The Prep Cook/ Sushi Helper supports our sushi chefs by preparing ingredients, maintaining a clean and organized work area, and assisting in the creation of high-quality sushi dishes. The ...

Apply Early

DIETARY AIDE/ASST

Torrance, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Experience as a Cook or Cook's helper in an institutional food service facility is preferred. KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS: * Comprehends and performs oral and written instructions and procedures * Collaborates ...

Cook II - Extra Help

Anderson, CA · On-site

$23.22 - $29.63/hr

The Cook II differs from the Cook I class in that the Cook II must train and supervise trusties/wards as kitchen and laundry help; places orders for perishable goods such as produce and dairy ...

The Cook II differs from the Cook I class in that the Cook II must train and supervise trusties/wards as kitchen and laundry help; places orders for perishable goods such as produce and dairy ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cook Helper information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$21

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 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 and kitchen cleanup under the supervision of chefs or cooks. Their tasks include chopping ingredients, washing dishes, and organizing supplies, often requiring basic cooking skills and knowledge of food safety standards. The role supports efficient kitchen operations and may involve working early mornings, evenings, or weekends.

Can I get paid to cook at home?

Cook helpers typically work in commercial kitchens or food service establishments and are paid for their labor. Cooking at home for personal use is unpaid, but some individuals may earn money by preparing meals for others through catering or meal prep services, which require skills and sometimes certifications. In general, paid cooking jobs are performed in professional environments rather than at home.

How much is the salary for a kitchen helper?

The salary for a kitchen helper typically ranges from $10 to $15 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the establishment. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced helpers or those in high-cost areas may earn more.

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 a cook's helper called?

A cook's helper is often called a kitchen assistant or food prep worker. They assist with basic food preparation, cleaning, and organizing in a kitchen environment, supporting chefs and cooks. This role typically requires basic cooking knowledge and the ability to follow instructions.

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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,434 per year, or $17 per hour.
COOK (FULL- TIME)

COOK (FULL- TIME)

UHS

Torrance, CA • On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Universal Health Services rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 250 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Responsibilities

                                                                                          Full Time Cook Position Opportunity

 

Del Amo Behavioral Health System, a subsidiary of UHS, offers a safe and compassionate environment for individuals looking for hope and healing from emotional, psychiatric and addiction issues.

Del Amo Behavioral Health offers a wide range of options, including inpatient, outpatient and specialty programs that includes children, adolescents, adults and seniors.  Whether addressing the needs of adults, adolescents or children, we are committed to providing our patients with treatment to help them find recovery that endures.  Our patients receive the same quality treatment from our thoughtful and compassionate team no matter the level of care.

Learn more and apply today by visiting our website at: www.delamohospital.com

Benefits include:

  • Competitive Compensation & Generous Paid Time Off
  • Excellent Medical, Dental, Vision and Prescription Drug Plans
  • 401(K) with company match and discounted stock plan
  • Educational Assistance up to $5,250
  • Challenging and rewarding work environment
  • Career development opportunities within UHS and its 300+ Subsidiaries!

 

 

This position prepares food for patients, hospital and medical staff, and maintaining the Food Services Department in a sanitary manner.

As one of the nation’s largest and most respected hospital companies, Universal Health Services, Inc. (UHS) has built an impressive record of achievement and performance. Steadily growing from a startup to an esteemed Fortune 500 corporation, UHS today has annual revenue nearing $10 billion. In 2017, UHS was recognized as one of the World's Most Admired Companies by Fortune; ranked #276 on the Fortune 500, and listed #275 in Forbes inaugural ranking of America's Top 500 Public Companies.

Our operating philosophy is as effective today as it was 40 years ago: Build or acquire high quality hospitals in rapidly growing markets, invest in the people and equipment needed to allow each facility to thrive, and become the leading healthcare provider in each community we serve. Headquartered in King of Prussia, PA, UHS has more than 81,000 employees and through its subsidiaries operates more than 320 acute care hospitals, behavioral health facilities and ambulatory centers in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the United Kingdom.

 

                                                                                                                                                                               EEO Statement

All UHS subsidiaries are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates. UHS subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers and as such, openly support and fully commit to recruitment, selection, placement, promotion and compensation of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

 

                                                                                                                       We believe that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success.


Qualifications

                                                                                                                                                                                 Notice

At UHS and all our subsidiaries, our Human Resources departments and recruiters are here to help prospective candidates by matching skillset and experience with the best possible career path at UHS and our subsidiaries.  We take pride in creating a highly efficient and best in class candidate experience. During the recruitment process, no recruiter or employee will request financial or personal information (Social Security Number, credit card or bank information, etc.) from you via email. The recruiters will not email you from a public webmail client like Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo Mail, etc. If you are suspicious of a job posting or job-related email mentioning UHS or its subsidiaries, let us know by contacting us at: https://uhs.alertline.com or 1-800-852-3449.

 

Education:             High School education diploma or equivalent preferred.

Experience:           Experience as a cook or cook’s helper in an institutional food service facility is required.

Knowledge/Skills:

  • Must be able to comprehend and perform oral and written instructions and procedures;
  • Must have strong verbal, reading and written communication, and customer service skills.
  • Must be able to collaborate with other multidisciplinary team members in an appropriate fashion;
  • Must have math skills to enable calculation of recipes and diets;
  • Must be willing to work flexible hours if necessary to support coverage in the department due to increased census or other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Must be able to adhere to facility and department policies and procedures and comply with the Corporate Compliance Program and Standards of Conduct.
Qualifications:

                                                                                                                                                                                 Notice

At UHS and all our subsidiaries, our Human Resources departments and recruiters are here to help prospective candidates by matching skillset and experience with the best possible career path at UHS and our subsidiaries.  We take pride in creating a highly efficient and best in class candidate experience. During the recruitment process, no recruiter or employee will request financial or personal information (Social Security Number, credit card or bank information, etc.) from you via email. The recruiters will not email you from a public webmail client like Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo Mail, etc. If you are suspicious of a job posting or job-related email mentioning UHS or its subsidiaries, let us know by contacting us at: https://uhs.alertline.com or 1-800-852-3449.

 

Education:             High School education diploma or equivalent preferred.

Experience:           Experience as a cook or cook’s helper in an institutional food service facility is required.

Knowledge/Skills:

  • Must be able to comprehend and perform oral and written instructions and procedures;
  • Must have strong verbal, reading and written communication, and customer service skills.
  • Must be able to collaborate with other multidisciplinary team members in an appropriate fashion;
  • Must have math skills to enable calculation of recipes and diets;
  • Must be willing to work flexible hours if necessary to support coverage in the department due to increased census or other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Must be able to adhere to facility and department policies and procedures and comply with the Corporate Compliance Program and Standards of Conduct.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Universal Health Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Universal Health Services logo

About Universal Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Universal Health Services (UHS) is a major player in the healthcare industry, based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, U.S. Founded in 1978, UHS offers hospital and healthcare services. Their diverse services range from acute care hospitals, behavioral health facilities and ambulatory centers nationwide. The company's mission of enhancing the health and well-being of their patients is reflected in their commitment to 'Helping Individuals Live Longer, Healthier and Happier Lives'. Universal Health Services' consistent growth and success in their industry have been recognized on numerous occasions, including being ranked amongst the Fortune 500 list of largest companies.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

King of Prussia, PA, US