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Cooking Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

El Pollo Loco

Cook

Los Banos, CA

$20 - $21/hr

Prior experience as a cook, grill cook, fry cook, prep cook, line cook, chef, or restaurant crew member, team member or other BOH part time restaurant jobs is not required but preferred. We are ...

Pinnacle Hospitality

Cook

Merced, CA

$15 - $20/hr

An Associate in this position prepares menu items served to restaurant guests; continually ensures the highest quality by observing the appropriate procedures and cooking times, maintains proper ...

Denny's

Cook

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

... cooking and presenting food to order, following established company standards, completing assigned 'prep work'as needed, storing and rotating stock, cleaning, sanitizing and organizing work area ...

Denny's

Cook

Gustine, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

... cooking and presenting food to order, following established company standards, completing assigned 'prep work'as needed, storing and rotating stock, cleaning, sanitizing and organizing work area ...

Multi Concept Management, LLC

Cook

Gustine, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

... cooking and presenting food to order, following established company standards, completing assigned "prep work"as needed, storing and rotating stock, cleaning, sanitizing and organizing work area ...

Covenant Living

Line Cook

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Produces small to large batch goods using advanced and full range of classical cooking techniques. Responsible for the preparation of food for residents in a Senior Living / Healthcare environment.

Multi Concept Management, LLC

Cook

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

... cooking and presenting food to order, following established company standards, completing assigned "prep work"as needed, storing and rotating stock, cleaning, sanitizing and organizing work area ...

The Holmstad

Line Cook

Turlock, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Produces small to large batch goods using advanced and full range of classical cooking techniques. Responsible for the preparation of food for residents in a Senior Living / Healthcare environment.

Chicken Ranch Casino

Line Cook - TWLV FT

Jamestown, CA

$21.14/hr

... cooking food items to ensure the highest quality of product and experience for every Guest. Assists with keeping the kitchen organized and running efficiently. Ensures and monitors proper food ...

Chicken Ranch

Line Cook - TWLV FT

Jamestown, CA · On-site

$21.14/hr

... cooking food items to ensure the highest quality of product and experience for every Guest. Assists with keeping the kitchen organized and running efficiently. Ensures and monitors proper food ...

Texas Roadhouse

Line Cook - Broil/Grill

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20.50/hr

Understand cooking steak temperatures * Meat seasoning, searing, and cooking * Meat seasoning, searing, and grilling * Using proper safety and sanitation guidelines * Understanding equipment and prep ...

Texas Roadhouse

Line Cook - Broil/Grill

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20.50/hr

Understand cooking steak temperatures * Meat seasoning, searing, and cooking * Meat seasoning, searing, and grilling * Using proper safety and sanitation guidelines * Understanding equipment and prep ...

Texas Roadhouse

Prep Cook

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $19/hr

As a Prep Cook your responsibilities would include: * Reading a prep sheet * Following Texas Roadhouse legendary recipes * Keeping the walk-in refrigerator clean and organized * Maintaining and using ...

Texas Roadhouse

Prep Cook

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $19/hr

As a Prep Cook your responsibilities would include: * Reading a prep sheet * Following Texas Roadhouse legendary recipes * Keeping the walk-in refrigerator clean and organized * Maintaining and using ...

Hotel Mission de Oro

Line Cook

Gustine, CA · On-site

Line Cooks: Broiler and Sauté Starting At $18.00hr.- $28.00 hr. (Depending on Experience) Located in Santa Nella, California right off I-5, Hotel Mission De Oro is at the heart of a peaceful and ...

Hotel Mission de Oro

Line Cook

Santa Nella, CA · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Line Cooks: Broiler and Sauté Starting At $18.00hr.- $28.00 hr. (Depending on Experience) Located in Santa Nella, California right off I-5, Hotel Mission De Oro is at the heart of a peaceful and ...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers

Line Cook

Turlock, CA

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

You will be preparing food the Red Robin way, which includes cutting, sauteing, broiling, frying, and cooking various meals including meats, fish, poultry, vegetables, soups, salads, and other ...

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All JobsCooking JobsCooking Jobs in Merced, CA

Cooking information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$18

$23

How much do cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking in Merced, CA is $18.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

In the cooking industry, executive chefs or restaurant owners can earn $10,000 or more per month through high-end establishments or successful businesses, often requiring extensive experience, culinary skills, and business acumen rather than formal degrees. These roles typically involve long hours, leadership responsibilities, and a strong reputation in the culinary field.

What jobs can you do with cooking?

Jobs related to cooking include chef, line cook, pastry chef, sous chef, and kitchen manager. These roles typically require culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and experience working in food service environments. Opportunities exist in restaurants, hotels, catering companies, and institutional food services.

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 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 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 jobs can I do if I like to cook?

Jobs for those who enjoy cooking include chef, line cook, pastry chef, and kitchen assistant, often requiring culinary skills and food safety knowledge. Other options include catering, food styling, and food service management, which may involve working in restaurants, hotels, or catering companies. Certifications like a culinary degree or food handler's permit can enhance job prospects.

What cooking jobs make the most money?

Executive chefs and head cooks typically earn the highest salaries in cooking careers, often exceeding $70,000 annually, especially in high-end restaurants or hotel establishments. Specialized roles such as pastry chefs, sous chefs, and culinary directors with advanced skills and certifications can also command higher wages. Experience, location, and the size of the establishment influence earning potential in cooking jobs.
What are popular job titles related to Cooking jobs in Merced, CA? For Cooking jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooking jobs in Merced, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Cooking jobs in Merced, CA are:
What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Cooking jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Cooking job openings:
Cooking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooking job openings in Merced, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, and 49% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,576 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Cook

El Pollo Loco

Los Banos, CA

$20 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Your path begins here at El Pollo Loco

Start on your path towards a brighter future filled with growth and opportunity. Where we lift each other up, push each other further, and take part in something bigger than ourselves - supported by a team committed to you and your success.


Prior experience as a cook, grill cook, fry cook, prep cook, line cook, chef, or restaurant crew member, team member or other BOH part time restaurant jobs is not required but preferred. We are looking for Full Time and Part Time Team Members.


Responsibilities/Duties:

* Follows company food handling and safety procedures.

* Follows projections through the shift to maintain proper food product levels at expected quality.

* Follows cold and hot preparation recipes according to standards, and inspects all ingredients.

* Maintains dishes clean throughout the shift following manual warewashing standards.

* Provides support to peers such as restocking packed products in coolers for cashiers, packaging cold     prepped items, and other tasks assigned.

* Maintains a clean and sanitized work area, including equipment, tools and storage areas.

* Assists in training new Food Preparation personnel.

* Performs additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.


Physical Requirements:

* Ability to move 50lbs, with assistance is required

* Ability to lift, pull, toss 40lbs trash bags

* Must have a high level of mobility/flexibility

* Ability to reach, bend, stoop, scrub, lift and wipe.

* Exposure to heat, cold, smoke and odor.

* Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time. 

* Must be able to work under stress/pressure during peak periods.


Qualification Standards:

* CA Food Handler Certificate is required

* Must be 18 years of age or older

* Must be able to read company recipes cards in either English or Spanish

* Must have a basic understanding of how to follow a recipe. 


It started with a mother’s recipe and one man’s desire for a quality chicken dinner after a hard day’s work. Over 40 years later, we still grill our chicken the same way, citrus marinated and grilled low and slow over an open flame. In that time, we’ve fed families, connected cultures and have become a Southern California institution.