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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cpk

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 ...

Cpk

Prep Cook

Irvine, 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

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

Manhattan Beach, 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

Culver City, 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

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$19.18 - $21.18/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

San Francisco, CA

$19.18 - $21.18/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

Simi Valley, 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 ...

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

Simi Valley, 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

Riverside, 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

Manhattan Beach, 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 ...

Hope The Mission

$21/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.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPrep Cook 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 Aug 15, 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 is an entry level prep cook?

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.

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 an entry level prep cook with no experience?

To become an entry level prep cook with no experience, focus on developing basic cooking skills, understanding food safety practices, and demonstrating reliability. Many employers provide on-the-job training, so a positive attitude and willingness to learn are valuable. Having a high school diploma or equivalent can also improve your chances of getting hired.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,201 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Prep Cook

Cpk

Burbank, CA • On-site

$16.90 - $18.90/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 6 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.

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