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Entry Level Chef Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Party Staff

Ventura - Cooks and Prep-Cooks

Ventura, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

... . Entry-level, intermediate, or experienced cooks welcome! What you'll do: * Prep and cook for special events * Work collaboratively with the Chef * Maintain a clean and organized workspace The Party ...

OLS HOTELS

RUNNER - MAR MONTE HOTEL

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$16.50/hr

Communicate food orders to chefs, paying attention to priorities and special requests (e.g. food ... Experience as a Food Expeditor or similar entry-level role in a restaurant * Understanding of ...

ClubCorp

Cook 1

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited Clubs

Cook 1

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited Clubs

Cook 1

Northridge, CA

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited Clubs

Cook 1

San Diego, CA

$17 - $21.50/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited

Cook 1

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

ClubCorp

Cook 1

Tarzana, CA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited

Cook 1

Tarzana, CA

$16.75 - $21/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited Clubs

Cook 1

Tarzana, CA

$17 - $21/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited

Cook 1

Northridge, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

ClubCorp

Cook 1

Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited

Cook 1

Aliso Viejo, CA

$17 - $21.25/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited

Cook 1

Los Angeles, CA

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

ClubCorp

Cook 1

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

ClubCorp

Cook 1

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited Clubs

Cook 1

Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

Invited

Cook 1

Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

ClubCorp

Cook 1

Northridge, CA · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key ...

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All JobsEntry Level Chef JobsEntry Level Chef Jobs in California

Entry Level Chef information

See California salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do entry level chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level chef in California is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $30.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the most entry level chef position?

The most entry-level chef position is typically a line cook or prep cook, responsible for basic food preparation and assisting more experienced chefs. These roles often require minimal experience, focus on learning kitchen skills, and may involve working under supervision in a restaurant or culinary setting.

What is an Entry Level Chef job?

An Entry Level Chef, often called a Commis Chef, is a beginner role in a professional kitchen. They assist senior chefs with food preparation, basic cooking tasks, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. Responsibilities may include chopping ingredients, plating dishes, and learning cooking techniques. This role is a stepping stone for gaining hands-on experience and advancing in the culinary industry. Many Entry Level Chefs work in restaurants, hotels, or catering services while developing their skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Chef position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Chef, you need basic culinary skills, a strong understanding of food safety, and often a high school diploma or culinary certification. Experience with kitchen tools, food preparation equipment, and safe handling procedures is typically required. Attention to detail, the ability to work well under pressure, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills that help you succeed. These skills ensure you can prepare dishes efficiently, contribute positively to kitchen operations, and maintain high standards of cleanliness and cooperation.

How to become an entry level chef?

To become an entry level chef, individuals typically complete a culinary arts program or gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen positions. Developing cooking skills, understanding food safety standards, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects in this field.

What is an entry level chef position?

An entry level chef position is a beginner role in a kitchen, often involving basic food preparation, cooking, and cleaning tasks. It typically requires little prior experience and may involve working under the supervision of more experienced chefs, with opportunities to learn culinary skills and gain certifications like food safety training.

What are the typical career growth opportunities for an Entry Level Chef?

As an Entry Level Chef, you typically start by assisting with food preparation and basic cooking tasks, but there are many opportunities for advancement. With experience and continued training, you can progress to more senior kitchen roles such as Line Cook, Sous Chef, or even Head Chef over time. Many kitchens and restaurants offer on-the-job training, mentorship, and sometimes tuition assistance for further culinary education. Demonstrating strong work ethic, creativity, and a willingness to learn can significantly enhance your advancement prospects within the culinary field.

How to get a chef job with no experience?

Entry level chef positions often do not require prior experience and focus on basic cooking skills, a willingness to learn, and a positive attitude. Gaining experience through volunteering, completing culinary courses, or working in entry-level food service roles can improve chances of securing a chef job. Demonstrating reliability and a strong work ethic is also important in the hiring process.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in California? The most popular types of Chef jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Chef jobs in California? For Entry Level Chef jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Chef jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Chef jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Chef jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Chef job openings:
Entry Level Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Chef job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 9% Full Time, 87% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,554 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
Ventura - Cooks and Prep-Cooks

Ventura - Cooks and Prep-Cooks

The Party Staff

Ventura, CA • On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Party Staff is Hiring Cooks & Prep Cooks in Ventura, CA!

Join our energetic team and create delicious food for exciting events!

We offer full-time & part-time positions with flexible schedules and constant variety. Entry-level, intermediate, or experienced cooks welcome!

What you'll do:

  • Prep and cook for special events
  • Work collaboratively with the Chef
  • Maintain a clean and organized workspace

The Party Staff Advantage:

  • Flexible Schedule: Choose when & where you work with competitive pay.
  • Weekly Pay: Get your paycheck every week!
  • Easy Payments: Get paid fast! Weekly direct deposits of your hard-earned cash.
  • Paid Training: Learn the ropes and get paid.
  • Benefits: Sick leave, health insurance (upon qualification), and 401k match (upon qualification)
  • Growth Opportunities: Gain experience with top-tier clients.
  • Great Team: Work alongside skilled professionals.
  • High-Energy Events: Work on exciting, fast-paced events with renowned clients.
  • Variety of Work: Experience a diverse range of projects to keep your workday dynamic.

We're looking for:

  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends
  • College students encouraged to apply!
  • 6 months to 1 year of experience (a plus)