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Culinary Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice Chocolate Maker

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$26.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Apprentice Chocolate Maker Level: L2 Hours: Full-time, $26.25/hour Department: Production Team ... We prefer that candidates have worked in the food and beverage/culinary or manufacturing industry ...

Housekeeper & Cook's

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Cooking experience is preferred or a culinary apprenticeship * A high School diploma or GED accepted * To be successful you will need to have the ability to handle multiple priorities, effective ...

Housekeeper & Cook's

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Cooking experience is preferred or a culinary apprenticeship * A high School diploma or GED accepted * To be successful you will need to have the ability to handle multiple priorities, effective ...

Kitchen Manager

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

Alongside the Culinary Director, Training Team and Program Manager, the Chef Instructor role supports 20-25 Apprentices each cohort. This role directly supervises 10-12 Farming Hope kitchen staff.

Barista Apprentice - Specialty Coffee

Malibu, CA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Our extensive APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM creates professional baristas from the ground up. New ... love for culinary expression and luxury products. Job Details: * An ideal candidate is detail ...

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Culinary Apprentice information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do culinary apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for culinary apprentice in California is $16.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a culinary apprentice?

Culinary apprentices are individuals who are learning the skills and techniques required to work in a professional kitchen, typically under the guidance of experienced chefs. They combine hands-on training with classroom instruction to gain a comprehensive understanding of cooking methods, food safety, and kitchen operations. Culinary apprenticeships are often part of formal programs that may lead to certification or qualifications recognized in the culinary industry. This role is ideal for those who want to gain practical experience while learning the trade. Apprentices may rotate through different kitchen stations, assisting with food preparation, cooking, and plating, while gradually taking on more responsibility.

What does a culinary apprentice do?

As a Culinary Apprentice, you can expect a hands-on learning experience that includes assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting chefs with various cooking and plating tasks. You'll likely rotate through different kitchen stations to gain exposure to a range of culinary techniques and cuisines. Apprentices are often responsible for ingredient measuring, chopping, and basic cooking, as well as learning proper food safety standards. Collaboration with chefs and other kitchen staff is key, and you'll receive ongoing feedback to help you develop your culinary skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a culinary apprentice?

To thrive as a Culinary Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and a passion for learning, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, knife skills, and sometimes completion of a food handler certification are important for this role. Attention to detail, strong work ethic, teamwork, and the ability to take direction help apprentices excel in fast-paced kitchen environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for building foundational culinary techniques, ensuring safety, and supporting efficient kitchen operations.

What is the difference between Culinary Apprentice vs Culinary Intern?

AspectCulinary ApprenticeCulinary Intern
CredentialsOften requires basic culinary training or certificationMay have limited or no formal credentials, often students
Work EnvironmentApprentices work in professional kitchens, learning hands-on skillsInterns may assist in kitchens or food service settings, focusing on observation and learning
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in culinary schools, restaurants, hotelsTypically found in hospitality or food service programs, internships
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking entry-level culinary training or apprenticeshipsIndividuals exploring internship opportunities in culinary fields

In summary, a Culinary Apprentice is usually engaged in structured training with hands-on experience, often requiring some certification, while a Culinary Intern generally focuses on observational learning, often as part of an educational program. Both roles serve as entry points into the culinary industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Culinary jobs in California?

The most popular types of Culinary jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Culinary Apprentice jobs in California?

For Culinary Apprentice jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Culinary Apprentice jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Culinary Apprentice jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Culinary Apprentice jobs?

Cities in California with the most Culinary Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Culinary Apprentice job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,591 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Bar Apprentice

8451 MELROSE EATERY LLC

West Hollywood, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description:

The Bar Apprentice is responsible for ensuring complete guest satisfaction by serving and assisting in a warm, accommodating and professional manner. The level of service must be consistent with established standards of Alba in every respect. The apprentice is responsible for executing and maintaining the tone and style of the Alba experience for every guest. The apprentice will support the bartender in prompt delivery of beverages and proper management of food orders, all while ensuring complete guest satisfaction by serving in a warm, accommodating and professional manner. The apprentice is also responsible for the cleanliness of the bar, water service for guests, and properly clearing and resetting utensils between courses.


Qualities required:

- Must have a hospitable personality and experience in the luxury hospitality business.

- Able to work at a rapid pace while maintaining attention to detail; ability to multitask.

- Must have good supervisory skills.

- Must have good communication and ability to promote sales.

- Must be skilled in time management. Must have teaching and motivational skills.

- Must have strong cocktail, spirits, wine and food knowledge.


Responsibilities:

- Ensure bar stations are properly set up and stocked to house specifications.

- Cut and juice fruits to daily pars.

- Set up and breakdown of the bar stations before and after each shift.

- Stock and maintain par levels for all bar products, including liquor, N/A, wines, beer, liquor, ice, juice and garnishes.

- Assist with washing and polishing all bar glassware.

- Possess a working understanding of our wine, spirits and beer selections, including technique and service.

- Possess a full knowledge of Alba’s menu items, food preparation techniques and basic culinary terminology.

- Must be able to converse with guests concerning menu items and products in a detailed and articulate manner.

- Apprentices are often required to lift and carry heavy boxes and materials (ice, bar mats, etc.).

- Ensure all side-work is completed thoroughly, expertly, and on time.

- Review the menu for changes, specials, 86’d items, etc.

- Have exceptional knowledge of menu and presentation standards. This includes understanding the menu thoroughly and being able to describe the chef’s style of cuisine.

- Ensure high standards of personal presentation and grooming.

- Always greet and welcome guests promptly in a warm and friendly manner.

- Responsible for clearing, collecting and returning food and beverage items to the proper area.

- Speak with guests and staff using clear and professional language.

- Completes the daily responsibilities that are set for each individual shift.

- Work with fellow staff and managers to ensure that the restaurant achieves its full potential.

- Ensure that the restaurant is always kept clean and organized, both at the front as well as the back of house areas.

- Communicate with the kitchen regarding any menu questions, the length of wait and product availability.

- Always applies service techniques correctly at all times, and serves Food & Beverage items with enthusiasm.

- Anticipate any unexpected guest needs and react promptly and tactfully.

- Communicates effectively to know the daily task assigned.

- Attends training sessions and meetings as and when required.

- Always thank and say farewell to guests conveying anticipation for their next visit.

- All other duties as assigned by management.

Requirements: