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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Party Staff

San Diego - Cook & Prep-Cook

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Due to continued growth in the San Diego market, we are expanding our back-of-house support team and seeking dependable entry-level prep cooks and kitchen assistants interested in consistent kitchen ...

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Il Pizzaiolo Wood-fired Pizza

Prep Cook

Loomis, CA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... prep cook, etc. so be prepared to learn a lot and work hard if you join the team ... Most of the jobs that we are hiring for are entry level positions. If you are interested in ...

Apply Early

Il Pizzaiolo Wood-fired Pizza

Prep Cook

Loomis, CA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... prep cook, etc. so be prepared to learn a lot and work hard if you join the team ... Most of the jobs that we are hiring for are entry level positions. If you are interested in ...

Il Pizzaiolo Wood-fired Pizza

Prep Cook

Loomis, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... prep cook, etc. so be prepared to learn a lot and work hard if you join the team ... Most of the jobs that we are hiring for are entry level positions. If you are interested in ...

Apply Early

Yamashiro Hollywood

Prep Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

As a Prep Cook, you will be responsible for assisting in the preparation of ingredients, stocking ... Los Angeles , CA , United States Experience Required: Entry Level Date Published: 12 Jul 2023

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Burbank, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Burbank, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

San Francisco, CA

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Irvine, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Glendale, CA

$15 - $19/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Pleasanton, CA

$15.75 - $20/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Irvine, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep cook

Irvine, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Burbank, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.90/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Irvine, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.90/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.90/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Burbank, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.90/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

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All JobsEntry Level Prep Cook JobsEntry Level Prep Cook Jobs in California

Entry Level Prep Cook information

See California salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do entry level prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level prep cook in California is $15.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level prep cooks?

Entry level prep cooks are kitchen workers who assist chefs and cooks by preparing ingredients and performing basic cooking tasks. Their duties often include washing and chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, organizing the kitchen, and ensuring that all food items are ready for use. Prep cooks are essential for maintaining an efficient workflow in restaurants and other food establishments, especially during busy periods. This position is a great starting point for those interested in a culinary career, as it provides hands-on experience in a professional kitchen.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Prep Cook, you need basic culinary knowledge, knife skills, and a willingness to follow recipes and food safety standards, typically with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, proper food handling procedures, and sometimes a food handler's certification are important. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure consistent food quality, maintain kitchen safety, and support smooth kitchen operations in a fast-paced environment.

How to become a prep cook?

To become a prep cook, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic cooking skills. Gaining experience through entry-level kitchen jobs or culinary training programs can help develop necessary skills such as knife handling and food safety. On-the-job training is common, and a willingness to work early mornings, evenings, or weekends is often required.

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

AspectEntry Level Prep CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skillsSimilar; may require more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep area, assisting with ingredient preparationCooking stations, actively preparing dishes during service
Employer UsageEntry-level position in restaurants, hotels, cateringMore experienced role, often with specific station responsibilities

While both roles work in restaurant kitchens, an Entry Level Prep Cook primarily focuses on preparing ingredients and assisting with basic tasks, whereas a Line Cook actively cooks and manages specific stations during service. The prep cook position is ideal for those starting in the culinary industry, with opportunities to advance to a line cook role with experience.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level prep cooks, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level prep cooks often face challenges such as managing time efficiently during busy meal periods, maintaining consistency in food preparation, and adapting quickly to the fast-paced kitchen environment. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and follow recipes and instructions closely. Developing good knife skills and a strong sense of teamwork will also help new prep cooks work more efficiently and confidently as they gain experience.

How to get a prep cook job with no experience?

Entry level prep cook positions often do not require prior experience; instead, employers look for reliability, willingness to learn, and basic kitchen skills. Candidates can improve their chances by demonstrating a positive attitude, punctuality, and a willingness to follow instructions, and may consider completing food safety certifications to enhance their application.

Is a prep cook an entry level job?

Yes, a prep cook position is typically considered an entry level job in the culinary industry. It usually requires basic cooking skills, such as knife handling and food preparation, and often does not require prior professional experience. Many restaurants hire prep cooks as a starting point for a culinary career.

How to get into cooking with no experience?

Entry level prep cooks can start by gaining basic kitchen knowledge, such as food safety and knife skills, through online tutorials or cooking classes. Volunteering or working in fast-food or cafeteria settings can provide practical experience and help build foundational skills for a culinary career.
What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs in California? The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Prep Cook jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Prep Cook job openings:
Entry Level Prep Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Prep Cook job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,201 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
Prep Cook/Dishwasher (51415)

Prep Cook/Dishwasher (51415)

TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION

Truckee, CA • On-site

$19.68 - $27.16/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Tahoe Donner Association is looking for entry level Prep Cook/Dishwashers to join our Food & Beverage Team! The Prep Cook/Dishwasher assists in the preparation, service and restocking of all foods served; washes dishes, pots and pans.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Assist with preparing food and beverage items for the eating establishment.

Restock all food and beverage items in the kitchen.

Clean, scrub and scour cooking utensils, pots, pans and dishes using an industrial dishwashing area.

Clean, scrub, sweep and mop kitchen area.

We have a seasonal opportunity available for the summer season! 

To view the complete job description, please click HERE!!


We offer competitive starting pay based on experience and availability, performance-based advancement, use of Tahoe Donner Association Amenities, free gym membership at Trout Creek Recreation Center, food & beverage discounts and retail discounts!
It's all happening HERE at Tahoe Donner Association!  Come Share the Stoke!

Working knowledge of kitchen sanitation and safety measures.

Knowledge of food handling sanitation.

Knowledge of principles, procedures and equipment used in the storage, care, preparation, cooking and dispensing of food in large quantity.

Knowledge of methods and procedures used in the operations, cleaning and care of utensils, equipment and work areas.

Ability to prepare and cook all food groups.

Follow oral and written instructions and keep records.

Lift an average of 50 lbs. if required in the job.

Read and write at a level appropriate to the position.

Ability to cooperate and work well with others.

Ability to cooperate and work well with others.

Ability to maintain a clean and neat personal appearance.
 

These skills and abilities are typically acquired through the completion of a high school diploma or equivalent and two years of experience performing the duties of a cook or prep cook and/or training in culinary science  or an equivalent combination of formal training, education and experience which demonstrates the ability to perform all of the duties of the position.

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