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Cooking Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LEE KUM KEE

Cooking Operator

La Puente, CA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

With more than 300 products to choose from, Lee Kum Kee takes the mystery out of cooking authentic and delicious Asian foods in the comfort of your kitchen. Lee Kum Kee is committed to providing ...

Charlies Classic Cooking

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Culinary Arts Teacher

Poway, CA · On-site

$500 - $1K/wk

Cooking Camp Teacher Part-time Poway Summer Camp Are you energetic and passionate about cooking? Poway Summer Camp is looking for a few enthusiastic individuals to assist with our Kids Cooking Camp ...

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Enrichment Teacher (Cooking)

Castro Valley, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The Cooking Enrichment Teacher plays a key role in delivering engaging, hands-on culinary experiences within the after-school program. This position is responsible for designing and facilitating ...

VTCSM

Cooking Crew Supervisor ASC20260505

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$20.08/hr

The Cooking Crew Supervisor provides training to 3-4 adults with developmental disabilities in the preparation and cooking bulk meals. For more information visit our website: www.vtc-sm.org ESSENTIAL ...

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How much do cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking in California is $16.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Cook, foundational skills in food preparation, kitchen safety, and menu planning are essential, often supported by a culinary degree or relevant experience. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food safety certifications (such as ServSafe), and inventory management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for success in a busy kitchen environment. These abilities ensure consistent food quality, efficient operations, and a positive dining experience for customers.

What are some common challenges cooks face in a busy kitchen environment?

Cooks in fast-paced kitchens often deal with high-pressure situations, especially during peak dining hours when multiple orders need to be prepared quickly and accurately. Maintaining consistency in taste and presentation while juggling various tasks can be demanding. Communication and teamwork are crucial, as cooks must coordinate closely with other kitchen staff and servers to ensure timely service. Adapting to last-minute menu changes or handling special dietary requests can also add to the complexity of the role.

What does a cook do?

A cook is responsible for preparing and cooking food in a variety of settings, such as restaurants, cafeterias, or private households. Duties typically include following recipes, measuring ingredients, operating kitchen equipment, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Cooks may also be involved in menu planning, inventory management, and collaborating with other kitchen staff to deliver high-quality meals on time.

What is the difference between Cooking vs Food Preparation Worker?

AspectCookingFood Preparation Worker
CredentialsMay require food safety certificationsTypically no formal certifications needed
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cateringFood production lines, cafeterias, fast food outlets
Job DutiesPreparing, cooking, and presenting dishesChopping, assembling ingredients, basic food prep
Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesFood manufacturing, cafeterias, quick-service restaurants

Cooking involves preparing and cooking dishes, often requiring culinary skills and certifications. Food Preparation Workers focus on basic food assembly and prep tasks, usually without formal credentials. Both roles are essential in food service environments but differ in complexity and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in California? The most popular types of Cooking jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Cooking jobs in California? For Cooking jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooking jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cooking jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cooking jobs? Cities in California with the most Cooking job openings:
Cooking jobs near you
After School Children's Cooking Instructor

After School Children's Cooking Instructor

Sticky Fingers Cooking

Fullerton, CA • On-site

$36.67/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to TURNIP the BEET on what Kids Eat®?

SFC OC NORTH dba Sticky Fingers Cooking® is looking for enthusiastic part-time Chef Instructors to help us Cultivate COOLinary Curiosity in Kids®!

If you're passionate about cooking, have experience working with kids, and are looking for a fun, flexible, and meaningful part-time job, we want to meet you!

Why You'll Love This Job

  • Make an Impact: Teach kids about cooking, nutrition, and healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.
  • Flexibility: Perfect for your schedule-classes are typically held on weekdays (2-5 PM).
  • Supportive Team: We provide all the tools, training, and recipes you need to succeed.
  • Fun Atmosphere: Enjoy creating a hands-on, dynamic learning experience for kids aged 3-18.

What You'll Do

  • Lead Hands-On Cooking Classes: Teach kids how to chop, mix, measure, and create healthy, exciting recipes from around the world.
  • Spark Creativity: Introduce kids to new ingredients, cuisines, and cultures in an engaging, interactive way.
  • Stay Organized: Prepare for classes using provided curricula, shop for fresh ingredients, and set up fun, safe kitchen environments.
  • Be the Face of Fun: Inspire and encourage kids as they gain confidence in the kitchen.

Who You Are

  • Experienced in working with kids of various ages and backgrounds.
  • Available to teach 1 hour classes (on campus approx 90 mins) at least 2 days a week between 2-5 PM, Mondays- Fridays.
  • Punctual, reliable, and comfortable managing groups of 8-14 kids. Must arrive on campus 20-30 minutes prior to scheduled class time. Varies per school.
  • Able to commit to teaching sessions that run 4-12 weeks.
  • Have or willing to obtain a ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Mandated Reporter Training.
  • Lift up to 30 lbs to store and transport materials.
  • Must have a reliable means of transportation.
  • Must pass state and FBI background checks as a condition of employment.

What We Offer

Competitive Pay: $36.67 per hour ($55 per class + $14 food reimbursement + grocery shopping time per class + cell phone/internet reimbursement each month).

**Each class is roughly 1.5 hours on campus. This includes 15 minutes of preparation prior to your scheduled class, and 5-15 minutes of clean up after your scheduled class.

  • $18/hour grocery shopping time
  • $18/hour for trainings and staff meetings
  • $5 Cellphone/internet reimbursement (monthly)
  • $14 reimbursement per class for groceries purchased
  • Sick leave at the rate of 1 hour per 30 worked
  • Ongoing Support.
  • All tools and equipment provided, this includes our special Chef tool kit valued at $175
  • A chance to join a team that's passionate about making a difference.

A Day in the Life

As a Sticky Fingers Cooking® instructor, you'll travel to different schools in your area to bring "the kitchen" to kids. Using our tried-and-true recipes, you'll teach them essential cooking skills, food safety, and the history and culture behind each dish-all while fostering creativity and confidence. From slicing and dicing to learning about global cuisines, kids will have a blast in your classes, and so will you!

About Sticky Fingers Cooking®

Since 2011, Sticky Fingers Cooking® has been bringing the joy of cooking to thousands of kids across the country. We believe in making cooking fun, educational, and accessible for children, and we couldn't do it without passionate instructors like YOU!

Join Our Team and Get Kids Cooking!

If this sounds like your jam, apply today! We can't wait to meet you and welcome you to our team.

Meet some of our amazing Chefs here!


All employees are required to complete and clear a background check