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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bridgewater Retirement Community

Prep Cook

Bridgewater, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.24/hr

Description The Prep Cook is responsible for supporting kitchen operations through basic food ... This entry-level position focuses on following recipes, preparing ingredients, and assisting cooks ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Manhattan Beach, 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 ...

Cpk

$12.75 - $16.25/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 ...

East Bank Club

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL

$20/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for the preparation, cooking, and servicing of all hot bar menu items ... This role is considered entry-level. Job Responsibilities: * Preparation, cooking, and servicing of ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Clinton, MI · On-site

$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 ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

San Diego, CA

$15.25 - $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 ...

The Party Staff, Inc.

Cook & Prep Cook

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15 - $19/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

The Party Staff, Inc.

Cook & Prep Cook

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$11 - $13/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

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$16 - $22.25/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 ...

Cpk

Prep Cook

San Diego, CA

$17.75 - $19.75/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 ...

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

Kapolei, HI · On-site

$16 - $22.25/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

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

Natick, MA · On-site

$15 - $17/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 ...

Cpk

Prep Cook

Manhattan Beach, 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

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $19.75/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 ...

Cpk

Prep Cook

Santa Barbara, 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

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.87 - $19.87/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

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Entry Level Prep Cook information

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$9

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$20

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:
Entry Level Prep Cook jobs near you
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.
Prep Cook

Prep Cook

Bridgewater Retirement Community

Bridgewater, VA • On-site

$14.25 - $19.24/hr

Other

Posted 14 hours ago

Bridgewater Retirement Community rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
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 focuses on following recipes, preparing ingredients, and assisting cooks to ensure timely and efficient meal service for residents, team members, and guests.
Schedule: Part time 8a-4:30p with every other weekend rotation
Essential Functions
  • An individual must be able to successfully perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Prepare ingredients for cooking, including washing, peeling, cutting, chopping, and portioning food items according to recipes and production sheets
  • Measure and assemble ingredients for menu items, ensuring accuracy and consistency
  • Assist cooks with basic food preparation and plating as directed
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen work areas, prep stations, and storage areas
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards in accordance with Health Department regulations
  • Properly store food items, label and date products, and rotate stock using FIFO methods
  • Assist with receiving and stocking deliveries as needed
  • Clean and sanitize kitchen equipment, utensils, and surfaces throughout shift and during closing

Requirements
  • Ability to follow instructions, recipes, and production sheets
  • Basic knife skills and ability to safely handle kitchen equipment (or willingness to learn)
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and as part of a team
  • Prior experience in a kitchen, food service, or similar environment preferred but not required
  • Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
  • Willingness to learn and grow into higher-level kitchen roles

The following physical activities are necessary to perform one or more essential functions of this position.
  • Standing, walking, bending, stooping, and climbing ladders (up to 8 ft)
  • Lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs.; pushing/ pulling carts up to 100 lbs
  • Reaching above shoulder level / Full range of motion in all joints
  • Frequent repetitive motion; visual awareness for kitchen safety and cleanliness
  • Able to work in hot, humid, or cold environments with high noise levels

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