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Entry Level Kitchen Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Yamashiro Hollywood

Kitchen Expeditor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced and highly organized Kitchen Expeditor to join our dynamic team at a ... Los Angeles , CA , United States Experience Required: Entry Level Date Published: 27 May 2025

Boudin Bakery

Cook & Kitchen Position

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$18.21 - $18.50/hr

Previous experience in a restaurant/bakery (entry level employees also welcome) * Strong knowledge ... Our Cook / Kitchen Staff is responsible for preparing and executing recipes to standard by ...

Boudin Bakery

Cook and Kitchen Position

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$19.61 - $20/hr

Our Cook / Kitchen Staff is responsible for preparing and executing recipes to standard by ... Previous experience in a restaurant/bakery (entry level employees also welcome) * Strong knowledge ...

Boudin Bakery

Cook and Kitchen Position

Corte Madera, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Our Cook / Kitchen Staff is responsible for preparing and executing recipes to standard by ... Previous experience in a restaurant/bakery (entry level employees also welcome) * Strong knowledge ...

Boudin Bakery

Cook & Kitchen position

Irvine, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.25/hr

Restock kitchen for subsequent shifts * Ensure that the food prep area and kitchen are cleaned and ... Previous experience in a restaurant/bakery (entry level employees also welcome) * Strong knowledge ...

Champagne Bakery

Line Cook & Kitchen Position

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $18.25/hr

... kitchen. Cook Responsibilities: * Contributes to creating an excellent service experience for our ... Previous experience in a restaurant/bakery (entry level employees also welcome) * A desire to work ...

Champagne Bakery

Line Cook & Kitchen Position

Encinitas, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $17.50/hr

... kitchen. Cook Responsibilities: * Contributes to creating an excellent service experience for our ... Previous experience in a restaurant/bakery (entry level employees also welcome) * A desire to work ...

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Entry Level Kitchen information

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How much do entry level kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level kitchen in California is $15.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Kitchen vs Line Cook?

AspectEntry Level KitchenLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary trainingSimilar credentials; some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentFast-paced kitchen, assisting with prep and basic tasksCooking on the line, preparing dishes during service
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position in restaurants, hotels, cateringMid-level position in kitchens, often requiring some experience

Entry Level Kitchen roles focus on basic kitchen tasks and prep work, serving as an introduction to culinary work. Line Cooks are more experienced, responsible for cooking dishes during service. Both roles share similar credentials and work environments, but Line Cooks typically require more skills and experience.

Can I work in an entry level kitchen with no experience?

Entry level kitchen positions often do not require prior experience and are suitable for beginners. Employers typically look for a willingness to learn, good work ethic, and the ability to follow instructions; basic skills like knife handling and food safety knowledge can be learned on the job. Certifications such as a food handler's permit may be required or preferred.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level kitchen worker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Kitchen Worker, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety guidelines, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, sanitation procedures, and sometimes a food handler’s certification are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to follow instructions are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, maintain food safety standards, and support a positive working environment.

What is the easiest job in an entry level kitchen?

The easiest job in an entry-level kitchen is often a dishwasher or dish pit worker, as it requires minimal skills and involves basic tasks like cleaning dishes and kitchenware. These roles typically do not require prior experience and may have flexible schedules, making them accessible for beginners.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level kitchen staff and how can they be overcome?

Entry level kitchen staff often face challenges such as working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and learning to follow strict food safety protocols. It's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and be open to feedback from more experienced colleagues. Consistent practice, asking questions when unsure, and being adaptable can help new team members quickly build confidence and improve their performance.

How to start working in an entry level kitchen with no experience?

To start working in an entry level kitchen with no experience, apply for positions such as dishwasher, prep cook, or entry-level cook, which often require minimal skills. Gaining basic knowledge of food safety, cleanliness, and kitchen tools can improve your chances, and being willing to learn and work flexible hours is important for entry-level roles.

What is an entry level kitchen job?

Entry level kitchen jobs are positions in restaurant or food service kitchens that require little to no previous experience. Common roles include dishwasher, prep cook, or kitchen assistant. These jobs involve basic tasks such as washing dishes, prepping ingredients, cleaning, and assisting chefs or cooks. Entry level kitchen jobs are a great way to learn fundamental kitchen skills, gain experience in the food industry, and advance to higher positions over time.

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

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in California are:

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

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

Entry Level Kitchen jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Kitchen 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 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,628 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Ponderosa Kitchen Manager/Chef

MOUNT HERMON ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED

Mount Hermon, CA

$20.53 - $30.27/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

General Qualifications:

The Ponderosa Lodge (“PL”) Kitchen Manager/Chef is a Ministerial position. Ministerial staff render their work, stewardship, relationships and behavior as evidence of being followers of Jesus Christ while embracing and affirming Mount Hermon Association, Inc.’s (“MHA”) Christian mission, vision, beliefs, culture code and standards of conduct. They are responsible for defining, cultivating and leading MHA’s Christian community, conference programs and retreats. All staff are expected to join gatherings, which includes prayer, worship, and Bible-centered teaching.

 Position Objective:

The PL Kitchen Manager is responsible for all PL food operations including but not limited to, preparing meals, food and supply ordering and inventory, personnel management, and equipment upkeep in a manner consistent with MHA’s mission, vision, beliefs, culture code and standards of conduct.

 Key Job Accountabilities:
  • Oversee all PL food operations including but not limited to, preparing meals, food and supply ordering and inventory, personnel management, and equipment upkeep.
  • Recruit, train, schedule, supervise and continually monitor food service staff.
  • Reports and works closely with direct supervisor and MHA management in support of the Food Service Department vision.

     Create recipes & review menus and group information to provide production sheets for all areas and communicate order needs in a timely and accurate manner.

  • Monitor cost per meal, supplies, and labor vs. budget.
  • In cooperation with the hosts and custodial department, ensure the dining room is in a set, clean and sanitary state for each meal.
  • Supervise and coordinate clean up duties with Summer Staff and Guest Groups.

     Communicate with department supervisors & MHA management supporting the Food Service Department vision by achieving operational, financial & guest experience goals.

 
  • Enforce and ensure service staff are appropriately dressed and prepared.
  • Periodically train staff in injury and illness prevention plans per standards.
  • Respond to emergencies as needed and report suspected food borne illness to Health Services.
  • Coordinate maintenance, repair, and deep cleaning with maintenance and custodial.

     Document food consumption and leftovers and donations; direct utilization of food surpluses and leftovers.

     Manage kitchen staff by communicating expectations, providing training, team meetings, staff coaching, staff reviews and evaluating performance goals and engages in departmental spiritual formation.

  • Enforce & train health and safety codes and procedures as well as building security, and proper care and treatment of facilities.
  • Other duties as assigned by management.
 Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • All PL food service staff including but not limited to, p/t cooks, p/t dishwashers, volunteers.
 Education/Certifications/Licenses:
  • Culinary education preferred or comparable work experience.
  • Serve Safe Certified.
 Work Experience:
  • Minimum 3 years’ experience supervising food service staff.
  • Minimum 3 years of culinary or cooking experience.
  • Minimum 1 year of Kitchen Management preferred.
  • Christian Ministry or Volunteer experience preferred.
 Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Must possess excellent communication, problem solving and organizational skills.
  • Must be able to cook and prepare a variety of foods in a timely, clean and sanitary manner.
  • Demonstrated ability to produce delicious and appetizing meals in large quantities.
  • Excellent knife skills required.
  • Able to use and supervise dishwashing & kitchen cleaning tasks.
  • Ability to be pleasant and courteous with people while under stress.
  • Professional demeanor, sense of humor, adaptable, flexible, self-motivated.
  • Ability to take directions and follow procedures.
  • Demonstrated competence in making judgments concerning food taste, palatability, and aesthetics of food quality.
  • Working knowledge of menu and recipe development, presentation, portion control and costing.
  • Ability to effectively manage a dynamic, part-time, entry-level work force.
  • Cooperative spirit and desire to learn and improve.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to use MS Excel and Word, skilled in food service math.

     Bilingual skills a plus; fluency in English (reading, writing, and speaking) a must.

 Physical Demands:
  • Ability to lift and carry at least 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand and move around most of the workday.
  • Ability to work in hot and cold environments.
  • Requires standing, sitting, squatting, stooping, twisting, seeing, grasping, among other physical labor tasks.
  • Ability to safely use a variety of kitchen tools, chemicals, equipment, and utensils, including sharp objects.
 
 Additional Requirements:
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including early mornings, late nights and weekends and most major holidays with a flexible schedule.
  • Must have a clean driving record of at least three years and agree to and comply with MHA’s employee driving guidelines for MHA-owned vehicles and use of personal vehicles for business purposes.
  • Adherence to the basic principles as expressed in MHA’s Mission, Vision, Culture Code and Standards of Conduct.
  • Adherence to company dress code and professional standards for personal grooming and appearance.
  • Satisfactory completion of background investigation, or valid work permit, as well as ability to provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

Education/Certifications/Licenses:

  • Culinary education preferred or comparable work experience.
  • Serve Safe Certified.

Work Experience:

  • Minimum 5 years' experience leading in large quantity food service, catering and or restaurant services.
  • Minimum 3 years' experience supervising food service staff.
  • Minimum 3 years of culinary or cooking experience.
  • Minimum 1 year of Kitchen Management preferred.
  • Christian Ministry or Volunteer experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Must possess excellent communication, problem solving and organizational skills.
  • Must be able to cook and prepare a variety of foods in a timely, clean and sanitary manner.
  • Demonstrated ability to produce delicious and appetizing meals in large quantities.
  • Excellent knife skills required.
  • Able to use and supervise dishwashing & kitchen cleaning tasks.
  • Ability to be pleasant and courteous with people while under stress.
  • Professional demeanor, sense of humor, adaptable, flexible, self-motivated.
  • Ability to take directions and follow procedures.
  • Demonstrated competence in making judgments concerning food taste, palatability, and aesthetics of food quality.
  • Working knowledge of menu and recipe development, presentation, portion control and costing.
  • Ability to effectively manage a dynamic, part-time, entry-level work force.
  • Cooperative spirit and desire to learn and improve.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to use MS Excel and Word, skilled in food service math.
  • Bilingual skills a plus; fluency in English (reading, writing, and speaking) a must.

Physical Demands:

  • Ability to lift and carry at least 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand and move around most of the workday.
  • Ability to work in hot and cold environments.
  • Requires standing, sitting, squatting, stooping, twisting, seeing, grasping, among other physical labor tasks.
  • Ability to safely use a variety of kitchen tools, chemicals, equipment, and utensils, including sharp objects.

Additional Requirements:

  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including early mornings, late nights and weekends and most major holidays with a flexible schedule.
  • Must have a clean driving record of at least three years and agree to and comply with MHA's employee driving guidelines for MHA-owned vehicles and use of personal vehicles for business purposes.
  • Adherence to the basic principles as expressed in MHA's Mission, Vision, Culture Code and Standards of Conduct.
  • Adherence to company dress code and professional standards for personal grooming and appearance.
  • Satisfactory completion of background investigation, or valid work permit, as well as ability to provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

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