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Cooks Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Palermo Union Elementary

Cafeteria Helper

Palermo, CA · On-site

$18.05 - $23.44/hr

Job Summary Assists in the preparation of cooking of food; Serves meals and a la carte food items; Washes dishes, pots, pans, and utensils; Cleans kitchen and related equipment; Accepts money, makes ...

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Cooks

Knights Ferry, CA · On-site

$20/hr

As a Cook, you will perform many different duties that are part of preparing meals. As a ... TBI), a leading provider of specialized workforce solutions, helping clients improve growth and ...

Tacos La Villa

Cooks - Rosedale

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $18.50/hr

Cooks/ Cocinero(a) As a Cook, you'll help prepare fresh ingredients and maintain the quality Tacos La Villa is known for. Como parte del equipo de cocina, ayudars a preparar ingredientes frescos y ...

Tacos La Villa

Cooks - Tehachapi

Tehachapi, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $19.50/hr

Cooks/ Cocinero(a) As a Cook, you'll help prepare fresh ingredients and maintain the quality Tacos La Villa is known for. Como parte del equipo de cocina, ayudars a preparar ingredientes frescos y ...

Gjelina Group

Lead Line Cook - Gjusta LA

Venice, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

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 ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

San Francisco, CA

$26/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: ALASKA AIRLINES LOUNGE - SFO - 72550001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

San Francisco, CA

$24 - $25/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: BRITISH AIRWAYS LOUNGE - SFO - 30193001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

San Marcos, CA

$20 - $21.75/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY-SAN MARCOS - 16631013 Workdays/shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

San Francisco, CA

$26/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: ALASKA AIRLINES LOUNGE - SFO - 72550001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$26/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: #la-location_name Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts, days/hours (open ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22.75/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: #la-location_name Workdays/shifts: ANY SHIFT (OPEN AVAILABILITY). More ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

Yuba City, CA

$25/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: THE FOUNTAINS SKILLED NURSING & REHABILITATION - 54118002 Workdays ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Posted today

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

San Francisco, CA

$24 - $25/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: BRITISH AIRWAYS LOUNGE - SFO - 30193001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

San Diego, CA

$22.75/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: #la-location_name Workdays/shifts : ANY SHIFT (OPENAVAILABILITY). More ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$24 - $25/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: #la-location_name Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts, days/hours (open ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

San Marcos, CA

$20 - $21.75/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: #la-location_name Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

Sodexo

Food Prep Helper

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Prep Helper Location: #la-location_name Workdays/shifts: Afternoon/evenings - varying days ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...

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All JobsCooks Helper JobsCooks Helper Jobs in California

Cooks Helper information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$21

How much do cooks helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks 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 difference between Cooks Helper vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectCooks HelperKitchen Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cafeteriasCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering services
Employer & Industry UsageFood service establishments, hotels, hospitalsFood service establishments, catering, hospitality
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Cooks Helper and Kitchen Assistant roles typically require similar credentials and work in fast-paced kitchen environments. While their duties may overlap, Cooks Helpers often assist with food prep and basic cooking tasks, whereas Kitchen Assistants may focus more on cleaning, prep work, and supporting kitchen staff. Understanding these differences can help job seekers find the right position in the food service industry.

What is a cooks helper?

Cooks Helpers assist chefs and cooks in the preparation and serving of food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their duties often include washing and chopping vegetables, preparing ingredients, cleaning work areas, and sometimes helping with basic cooking tasks. They play a vital role in ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently by supporting the culinary team with day-to-day tasks. Cooks Helpers may also be responsible for stocking supplies and disposing of kitchen waste. This position is often an entry point for those interested in pursuing a career in the culinary arts.

What are some common challenges faced by a cooks helper, and how can they be addressed?

As a Cook's Helper, one common challenge is working efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment, especially during peak hours. Staying organized, communicating clearly with chefs and fellow kitchen staff, and mastering time management are key to overcoming this. Additionally, adapting quickly to changing priorities and maintaining strict food safety standards are essential. Seeking feedback and being proactive in learning new tasks can also help you succeed and potentially advance to higher kitchen positions.

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

To thrive as a Cooks Helper, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen hygiene, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food safety protocols, and inventory systems is often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills that help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient kitchen operations, ensuring food safety, and supporting chefs in delivering quality meals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooks jobs in California? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cooks Helper jobs? Cities in California with the most Cooks Helper job openings:
Cooks Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks Helper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,434 per year, or $17 per hour.

Cafeteria Helper

Palermo Union Elementary

Palermo, CA • On-site

$18.05 - $23.44/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

About the Employer
Thank you for your interest in joining the PUESD family! There is a strong sense of pride in being a part of our district, whether you are a member of our staff, a student, a parent or family member, or a local community member. Palermo Union Elementary School District is a Pre-K through 8th grade district, serving approximately 1,430 students. The district operates 4 school sites: Helen Wilcox, grades TK through 3rd, Golden Hills, grades 4th through 5th, Palermo Middle School, grades 6th through 8th and Honcut, grades Pre-K through 3rd. The District's greatest strength and resource is our outstanding staff members! Our staff members demonstrate extraordinary loyalty and dedication to our students and their success. In partnership with parents and other community stakeholders, it is the mission of Palermo Union Elementary School District to create the conditions necessary to ensure that every Palermo student reaches their highest potential.
Job Summary
Assists in the preparation of cooking of food; Serves meals and a la carte food items; Washes dishes, pots, pans, and utensils; Cleans kitchen and related equipment; Accepts money, makes change, and accounts for receipts; Performs related work as assigned.
Requirements / Qualifications
Comments and Other Information
The Pre-Employment Process includes:
-Drug & Alcohol Screening
-Department of Justice & FBI Clearance
-TB Test
For additional information please contact Chello Metcalf at cmetcalf@palermok8.org or call 530-533-4842
To comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, all new employees must provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Bilingual applicants encouraged to apply. AA/EOE/IX

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