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Entry Level Food Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SusieCakes

Dishwasher/Food preparer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Previous dishwashing or entry level food handling experience a plus * Must be able to safely utilize all bakery equipment * Attention to detail * Ability to work in cross functional roles as needed ...

New

SusieCakes

Dishwasher/Food preparer

San Jose, CA

$19 - $20/hr

Previous dishwashing or entry level food handling experience a plus * Must be able to safely utilize all bakery equipment * Attention to detail * Ability to work in cross functional roles as needed ...

Los Angeles Dodgers

Culinary Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Previous dishwashing or entry level food handling experience a plus * Must be able to safely utilize all kitchen equipment * Attention to detail * Excellent customer service * Excellent time ...

Key Skilled Personnel

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Machine Operator - Entry Level

Pomona, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Machine Operator I, Entry Level Location: Pomona, CA Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Shift: 2nd ... Follow GMPs, SOPs, PPE requirements, and all safety and food sanitation procedures. * Report unsafe ...

Claiborne County Schools

Food Service

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$13.50 - $19.92/mo

Most Tennessee districts require a High School Diploma or GED, though some entry-level or ... food safety certifications. Background Checks: Must pass a criminal history background check ...

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Entry Level Food information

What is an entry level food job?

Entry level food jobs are positions in the food industry that require little to no previous experience or specialized training. These roles often include tasks such as food preparation, serving, cashiering, dishwashing, and assisting cooks or chefs. People in these jobs typically work in restaurants, cafeterias, fast food outlets, or catering services, and they gain valuable experience that can help them advance to higher positions in the food service industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry level food service position, and why are they important?

To thrive in an entry-level food service role, basic food preparation skills, a high school diploma or equivalent, and an understanding of food safety standards are generally required. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, kitchen equipment, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are often expected. Strong teamwork, time management, and customer service skills help individuals excel in fast-paced environments. These skills ensure efficient service, maintain health standards, and contribute to positive customer experiences in the food industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Food vs Food Service Worker?

AspectEntry Level FoodFood Service Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, catering servicesRestaurants, fast food outlets, cafeterias
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food production industriesWidely used in food service establishments and hospitality

Entry Level Food roles typically involve basic food preparation, cleaning, and customer service tasks. Food Service Worker positions are similar, focusing on serving customers, maintaining cleanliness, and supporting kitchen operations. Both roles require minimal experience and certifications, making them accessible entry points into the food industry. The main difference lies in specific job duties and work settings, but they often overlap in daily responsibilities.

How to get an entry level food service job with no experience?

To get an entry-level food service job with no experience, focus on creating a simple resume highlighting soft skills like communication and teamwork. Apply to local restaurants, cafes, or fast-food outlets, and be prepared to start with flexible hours or shifts. Demonstrating a positive attitude and willingness to learn can increase your chances of being hired.

What does a typical day look like for someone in an entry level food service position?

A typical day in an entry-level food service role usually involves preparing basic food items, maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen or dining area, and assisting with customer service tasks such as taking orders or serving food. Employees often work as part of a team, collaborating closely with cooks, servers, and managers to ensure smooth operations. Entry-level staff are also responsible for following food safety protocols and may perform routine tasks like restocking supplies or handling simple cash register transactions. This role offers valuable experience in time management, teamwork, and customer interaction, laying the groundwork for future advancement in the food service industry.

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

The most popular types of Food jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Food jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Food job openings:

Entry Level Food jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Dishwasher/Food preparer

SusieCakes

San Jose, CA • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

SusieCakes rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 48 rated bakeries

Job description

At SusieCakes, we make old-fashioned, sentimental dessert favorites - just like you may remember from your childhood! Our bakeries are filled with the delicious tastes and sweet smells of cakes, cupcakes, cookies, pies, and bars- all baked from scratch, on-site daily, using the freshest and finest ingredients. Our signature Celebration Cake is a birthday staple on tens of thousands of tables. Our bakeries mix the nostalgia of the past with the warmth and feel of a modern, neighborhood bakery. "Connecting through Celebration" is our purpose and what we strive for every day with our team members, our guests and our community.
Our bakeries are lively and bustling with genuinely friendly people who have the "hospitality gene." They understand the importance of what they do every day and are empowered to make days better. Their connections to our guests and to each other are what separates SusieCakes from other bakeries.
BENEFITS & PERKS:
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Free non-slip shoes (annually!)
  • Birthday month PTO with complimentary cake
  • Company holidays off (Thanksgiving, December 25th-27th, and New Year's Day)
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance
  • Vacation, 401k, FSA
  • Pet rescue reimbursement and pet insurance
  • Flexible return to work schedule for maternity leave
  • Generous discounts to all our delicious desserts!

Clean and store all bakery pots, pans, utensils and dishes either by hand or utilizing dishwashing equipment. Perform basic culinary food preparation and other duties as assigned.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Operate dishwasher/pot sinks to wash and store pots, pans, utensils, and dishware
  • Perform side work as needed, i.e. break down boxes and remove trash, receive and put away paper and food orders
  • Perform daily cleaning, i.e. sinks, drains, metro shelves, trash bins, floors, walk-in freezer/refrigerator, grease traps (if applicable)
  • Prepare baked goods according to recipes and standard operating procedures including, but not limited to, scooping cookies, cutting bars/cookies, mixing buttercreams, etc.
  • Ensure all food is prepared, handled and stored according to all required food safety code standards
  • Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment in accordance with state and federal health department standards
  • Report any sanitation or janitorial issues to manager on duty
  • Operate and properly use bakery equipment according to recipes/standard operating procedures, i.e. mixers, induction burners, dishwasher, etc.
  • Monitor cleaning supplies inventory levels
  • Assist culinary team with production as needed

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Previous dishwashing or entry level food handling experience a plus
  • Must be able to safely utilize all bakery equipment
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to work in cross functional roles as needed (front-of house & back-of-house)
  • Must have reliable transportation

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Frequent walking, kneeling, bending, and reaching overhead
  • Able to stand for extended periods of time
  • Must be able to lift, move and carry up to 50 pounds

EDUCATION:
  • High school diploma or GED

LANGUAGE SKILLS:
  • Must be able to speak and read English for safety purposes

OTHER:
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as needed

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