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Entry Level Kitchen Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

California Pizza Kitchen

Host

Mclean, VA · On-site

This is an entry level position. We look forward to meeting you! California Pizza Kitchen is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment based on race ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Host

Richmond, VA

This is an entry level position. We look forward to meeting you! California Pizza Kitchen is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment based on race ...

Bridgewater Retirement Community

Prep Cook

Bridgewater, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for supporting kitchen operations through basic food preparation, ingredient assembly, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. This entry-level position ...

D2 Restaurant Group Abingdon

Dishwasher

Abingdon, VA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

Assists in kitchen where needed. 7.Assists in other areas of the restaurant when needed. 8 ... Entry-level position. Skills and Characteristics Required 1.Must be organized, flexible, and detail ...

Bridgewater Retirement Community

Prep Cook

Bridgewater, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.24/hr

... kitchen operations through basic food preparation, ingredient assembly, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. This entry-level position focuses on following recipes, preparing ...

Boar's Head Resort

Cook III

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Description: We're looking for a motivated Cook III to join our resort's kitchen. This entry-level role is perfect for someone passionate about food and eager to grow their culinary skills. You'll ...

Boar's Head Resort

Cook III

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

This entry-level role is perfect for someone passionate about food and eager to grow their culinary skills. You'll assist with basic food preparation, keep the kitchen clean and organized, and ...

Farmers Restaurant Group

Dishwasher - Tysons

Tysons, VA · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

An entry-level position in our kitchen, these essential team members are part of our growing company and very often the first place we look when hiring new chefs. Hourly Pay: $15 - $17 BENEFITS ...

Founding Farmers

Dishwasher - Tysons

Mclean, VA · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

An entry-level position in our kitchen, these essential team members are part of our growing company and very often the first place we look when hiring new chefs. Hourly Pay: $15 - $17 BENEFITS ...

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Entry Level Kitchen information

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How much do entry level kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level kitchen in Virginia is $15.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to work in a kitchen with no experience?

Entry level kitchen positions often require minimal experience and focus on basic tasks such as food prep, cleaning, and dishwashing. Demonstrating a willingness to learn, good work ethic, and the ability to follow instructions can help you get started; some employers may also provide on-the-job training. Having basic knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation is beneficial.

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.

What is the easiest job in a kitchen?

Entry-level kitchen jobs such as dishwashing or prep cook are generally considered the easiest, as they involve basic tasks like cleaning dishes or preparing ingredients. These roles typically require minimal experience and skills, making them accessible for beginners in a kitchen environment.

What is an entry level kitchen job?

An entry level kitchen job is a position suitable for individuals with little or no prior experience working in a kitchen environment. These roles often include tasks such as food preparation, cleaning, and basic cooking, and may require basic skills, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work in a fast-paced setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Kitchen Worker, and why are they important?

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 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.

Which kitchen position is an entry level role?

An entry-level kitchen position is typically a line cook, prep cook, or dishwasher. These roles usually require minimal experience, focus on basic food preparation skills, and often do not require formal certifications. They serve as starting points for those seeking to build a career in culinary work.

What are entry level kitchen jobs?

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 Virginia? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Kitchen jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Kitchen job openings:
Entry Level Kitchen jobs near you
Host

Host

California Pizza Kitchen

Mclean, VA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago

California Pizza Kitchen rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 86 rated restaurants

Job description

At California Pizza Kitchen, R.O.C.K.S is our philosophy for a culture that rocks!
For over 35 years we've built a culture of Respect, amazing Opportunities, open Communication, acts of Kindness, and epic Service.
Are you ready to join our team and start your #ROCKSolid career?
The Perks
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Flexible Shifts
  • Full and Part-Time Opportunities
  • Benefits
  • Excellent Training Program
  • Unlimited Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Team Member Dining Discounts
  • Diverse Culture
  • Holiday Closures

Epic Service!
Do you love working in a dynamic, fun atmosphere? Do you have a passion for food and an adventurous spirit? Do you like to have friends visit and show them your hospitality? If so, then being a Host at CPK may be for you! Our Hosts bring California creativity to every meal by making each guest their top priority. They ensure that each guest has a memorable dining experience by living out the CPK High 5:
  • We love CPK and we want you to notice.
  • We encourage everyone to have fun and be who they (really) are.
  • We always work as a team to better serve our guests.
  • We're obsessed with service details.
  • We sell what's on our menu because we're passionate about our food and drinks.

Job Duties
Our Hosts are warm, inviting individuals who greets our guests and makes them feel welcome. They inform guests when there is a wait with accurate wait times, while monitoring the wait list. They maintain the highest standard of service, sanitation, and hospitality. Our Hosts work closely with the store management and other employees to create a Team Concept. This is an entry level position.
We look forward to meeting you!
California Pizza Kitchen is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, or any other legally protected classification. Everyone has a seat at our table.
A full job description, including physical demands of the job is available upon request.

What California Pizza Kitchen employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

California Pizza Kitchen logo

About California Pizza Kitchen

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), based in Los Angeles, California, US, operates in the restaurant industry, particularly renowned for its unique style of pizza. Established in 1985 by attorneys Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax, CPK quickly gained popularity for its innovative recipes, including the iconic BBQ Chicken Pizza. With a firm commitment to quality and creativity, the mission at CPK is to give a unique dining experience where authentic California-style cuisine is presented in imaginative ways. The company's offerings extend beyond pizzas to include a wide variety of salads, pastas, soups, sandwiches and desserts among other items.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1985

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