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Cook Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cook - Per Diem

Wildomar, CA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/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 - Per Diem

Wildomar, CA

$13.75 - $18.25/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 (FULL- TIME)

Torrance, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $36.74/hr

... help them find recovery that endures. Our patients receive the same quality treatment from our ... Experience as a cook or cook's helper in an institutional food service facility is required.

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 (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 ...

Interested in Joining?

Irvine, CA

$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 · 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 Cook

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

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 ...

Food Services Worker (driving)

Visalia, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

COOKS HELPER May select recipes per menu cycle, prepare bakery items, receive, inventory, move and lift foodstuffs and supplies and prepare meals for customers requiring special diets. Follows HACCP ...

Food Services Worker (driving)

Visalia, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

COOKS HELPER May select recipes per menu cycle, prepare bakery items, receive, inventory, move and lift foodstuffs and supplies and prepare meals for customers requiring special diets. Follows HACCP ...

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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:
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 - Anaheim Convention Center - Catering

Cook Helper - Anaheim Convention Center - Catering

Aramark

Anaheim, CA

$21.80/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Aramark rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 1,215 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

335th of 427 rated business services


Job description

Job Description

The Food Prep Worker prepares, and portions food items and performs various duties in accordance with production requirements and Aramark sanitation standards. Uses daily worksheets and standardized recipes to cook meals.This role takes place in an events-based setting, which means that schedules and hours will vary. In general, you will most likely work 3 or 4 events a year. You will turn in an availability  and we will take that into account when we reach you on the scheduling list.   This role is a union position under Unite Here 11. Per the Collective Bargaining Agreement with the union, new hires in this role start at 80% of the negotiated pay rate. After 20 shifts worked, the employee will be raised to 90% of the negotiated pay rate. After 40 shifts worked (20 at 80%, 20 at 90%), the employee will be raised to 100% of the negotiated pay rate. The wage listed on this job posting is the starting wage of 80%.

Compensation Data

COMPENSATION: The Hourly rate for this position is $21.80 to $21.80. If both numbers are the same, that is the amount that Aramark expects to offer. This is Aramark's good faith and reasonable estimate of the compensation for this position as of the time of posting.

BENEFITS: Aramark offers comprehensive benefit programs and services for eligible employees including medical, dental, vision, and work/life resources. Additional benefits may include retirement savings plans like 401(k) and paid days off such as parental leave and disability coverage. Benefits vary by location and are subject to any legal requirements or limitations, employee eligibility status, and where the employee lives and/or works. For more information about Aramark benefits, click here Aramark Careers - Benefits & Compensation

There is no predetermined application window for this position, the position will close once a qualified candidate is selected. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with all applicable laws, including, but not limited to all applicable Fair Chance Ordinances and Acts. For jobs in San Francisco, this includes the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

Job Responsibilities
  • Prepares all food items using prep lists and standard Aramark recipes.
  • Follows proper food handling procedures.
  • Maintains accurate rotation of food to assure top quality and freshness.
  • Manages leftover foods correctly; cover, label, date, and accurately store according to Aramark standards.
  • Maintains clean and orderly refrigerators and work areas.
  • Ensures stations are cleaned, sanitized, and organized at the end of the shift (including cleaning of kitchen equipment).
  • Maintains a safe and sanitary work environment that conforms to all food safety standards and regulations.
  • Follows safety policies and accident reporting procedures.
  • Completes all required training.
     

At Aramark, developing new skills and doing what it takes to get the job done make a positive impact for our employees and for our customers. In order to meet our commitments, job duties may change or new ones may be assigned without formal notice.

Qualifications
  • Minimum one-year prep work or food service-related work preferred.
  • Knowledge of food prep, proper knife handling, temperature control, and sanitation is helpful.
  • Must be able to read and write to facilitate communication with others.
  • Demonstrates basic math and counting skills
     

This role may have physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling and/or extended walking and standing. This role may also require uniforms and/or usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). 

Education
About Aramark

Our Mission

Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet.

At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

About Aramark

The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food and facilities in 15 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at http://www.aramarkcareers.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.


What Aramark employees say

Pay

Benefits

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Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Aramark logo

About Aramark

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food, facilities, and uniform services in 19 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Industry

Hospitality services and facilities support services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US