ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cpk

Prep Cook

Glendale, CA

$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 ...

Cpk

Prep Cook

Burbank, CA

$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 ...

The Party Staff, Inc.

Cook & Prep Cook

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

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

Cpk

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

Glendale, 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 ...

Cpk

Prep Cook

Burbank, CA

$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 ...

Hope The Mission

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for that foundation -- and without it, production does not happen ... This is an entry-level production role, but entry does not mean low-stakes. Every vegetable ...

TS RESTAURANTS GROUP

PREP COOK

La Jolla, CA

$20 - $23/hr

We are looking for skilled PREP COOKS to join the Duke's La Jolla team! The starting rate is $20 ... This is an entry-level position with opportunity to learn and advance into other kitchen roles.

nha

PREP COOK - NUTRITION SERVICES

San Diego, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Under supervision, the Prep Cook maintains cleanliness of kitchen equipment, dishes, and facility ... This is an entry level position; however, 1 year of food service experience is required. High ...

nha

PREP COOK - NUTRITION SERVICES

San Diego, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Under supervision, the Prep Cook maintains cleanliness of kitchen equipment, dishes, and facility ... This is an entry level position; however, 1 year of food service experience is required. High ...

Whole Foods Market

Prep Cook

Concord, CA

$19 - $25.40/hr

New entry level Team Members who successfully complete their first 90-days of employment and who remain actively employed in an eligible role, may be eligible for a base rate increase after their 90 ...

The Party Staff

San Jose - Cook

San Jose, CA

$24 - $27/hr

Prep & cook delicious food for parties & events * Work with our chefs to complete assigned dishes ... We welcome entry-level, intermediate & experienced cooks! College students highly encouraged to ...

The Party Staff

San Francisco - Cook

San Francisco, CA

$21 - $23/hr

Prep & cook delicious food for parties & events * Work with our chefs to complete assigned dishes ... We welcome entry-level, intermediate & experienced cooks! College students highly encouraged to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 14, 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.

Is a prep cook a good entry level job?

A prep cook position is generally considered a good entry-level job in the culinary industry, as it requires basic cooking skills, food safety knowledge, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. It provides opportunities to learn kitchen operations, develop culinary skills, and gain experience for advancement in food service careers.

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 become a prep cook with no experience?

To become an entry-level prep cook with no experience, focus on developing basic cooking skills, such as knife handling and food safety, often through online tutorials or cooking classes. Many restaurants hire prep cooks without prior experience and provide on-the-job training, so a positive attitude and willingness to learn are important. Having a high school diploma or equivalent can also improve your chances of getting hired.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Entry-level prep cooks typically do not earn $10,000 a month; such high earnings are uncommon without significant experience or specialized skills. Jobs that can reach this level often involve entrepreneurship, sales, real estate, or skilled trades, but usually require experience, certifications, or business ownership rather than entry-level positions.

How to start cooking with no experience?

To start cooking as an entry-level prep cook with no experience, focus on learning basic kitchen skills such as knife handling, food safety, and ingredient preparation. Gaining familiarity with common cooking techniques and following simple recipes can help build confidence and competence in a professional kitchen environment.
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 2% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 62% Physical, and 38% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,201 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Prep Cook

Cpk

Glendale, CA

$16.90 - $18.90/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

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? If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members 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 Prep Cooks maintain the highest standards for food quality and sanitation. This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and techniques. They assist in the receiving of goods, daily inventory of prepared foods, and maintain proper storage and rotation of products. They practice and teach safe/sanitary handling of cutting boards, counter tops, knives, and equipment. They maintain the proper temperature of equipment and perform station opening/closing and side work duties each shift.

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.

The current pay range for this position is USD:

$16.90 - $18.90

Various benefits are available for this position if coverage requirements are met, including 401K, health, dental, and disability insurance (state mandated offerings available) through CPK's designated providers. CPK regularly reviews its benefits offerings and may change benefits and providers from time to time. Server, Bartender, Take Out, Host, and Busser positions are all eligible for tips at CPK.

Apply