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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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

Can produce noticeably more than an entry level prep cook. Advancement opportunity to Line Cook-Level 2. Team Member Responsibilities: * Responsible for preparing and cooking all food by following ...

Prep Cook (1918)

Madison, WI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Prep Cook Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly Compensation : $16- $19/hour Availability: Flexible. Part- and ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

Prep Cook Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly Compensation : $16- $19/hour Availability: Flexible. Part- and ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

Line Cook-Level 1

Vernon, NJ · On-site

$17/hr

Can produce noticeably more than an entry level prep cook. Advancement opportunity to Line Cook-Level 2. Team Member Responsibilities: * Responsible for preparing and cooking all food by following ...

Prep Cook (3054)

Madison, WI

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing cooking ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

Prep Cook (3054)

Madison, WI · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing cooking ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

Prep Cook

Charleston, SC · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of prep areas, equipment, and utensils. * Assist line cooks ... Experience in a professional kitchen (helpful, but sometimes entry-level)

Prep Cook

Clinton Township, MI

$14 - $17.75/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 ...

Prep Cook

Kapolei, HI

$14.25 - $18.25/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 ...

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 ...

Prep Cook

Natick, MA

$14.75 - $18.50/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 ...

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 ...

Prep Cook

Honolulu, HI

$14 - $17.75/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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Entry Level Prep Cook information

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

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level prep cook in the United States is $15.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

More about Entry Level Prep Cook jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Prep Cook jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Prep Cook job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs? The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Prep Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Prep Cook jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Prep Cook job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,628 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Food Prep

• Following recipes accurately and maintaining food preparation processes such as chopping herbs; dicing, cutting, and slicing vegetables

• Completing hot and cold food preparation assignment accurately, neatly, and in a timely fashion

• Preparing food throughout the day as needed, anticipating and reacting to guest volume

• Maintaining appropriate portion control and consistently monitoring food levels on the line

• Maintaining proper food handling, safety, and sanitation standards while preparing and cooking food

All of our crew will play the role of dishwasher, cashier, server, host, cook, 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 interviewing for a restaurant general manager or assistant restaurant manager position and have previous restaurant management experience you can contact us for more opportunities as we may have some of those positions available. Most of these management positions are filled internally but there are some exceptions.