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Food Prep Assistant Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Firehouse Subs

Cashier/ Food Prep

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$12.50/hr

General Manager/Assistant Manager/Shift Leader The positions are critical to the daily success of ... Able and willing to complete other restaurant functions such as food preparation or cleaning, per ...

Too Sweet Cakes

Savory Prep

Phoenix, AZ

$17 - $18/hr

This role involves preparing a variety of savory dishes, assisting in food preparation, maintaining ... Lift and restock supplies, and assist with unloading weekly deliveries to ensure the kitchen is ...

Too Sweet Cakes

Savory Prep

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

This role involves preparing a variety of savory dishes, assisting in food preparation, maintaining ... Lift and restock supplies, and assist with unloading weekly deliveries to ensure the kitchen is ...

Too Sweet Cakes

Savory Prep

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

This role involves preparing a variety of savory dishes, assisting in food preparation, maintaining ... Lift and restock supplies, and assist with unloading weekly deliveries to ensure the kitchen is ...

Firehouse Subs

Cashier/ Food Prep

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$12.50/hr

Able and willing to complete other restaurant functions such as food preparation or cleaning, per management direction, or any other duties assigned by the general manager, assistant manager, or ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

El Pollo Loco

EL Cook/Prep

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Shift Leader / Assistant Manager / General Manager Job Overview The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and food items according to El Pollo Loco's recipes, prep procedures, and food ...

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All JobsFood Prep JobsFood Prep Assistant JobsFood Prep Assistant Jobs in Arizona

Food Prep Assistant information

See Arizona salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do food prep assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for food prep assistant in Arizona is $14.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $15.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food prep assistant?

To thrive as a Food Prep Assistant, you need basic food handling knowledge, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food safety protocols, and sometimes a food handler’s certification are important technical requirements. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial to maintaining kitchen efficiency, ensuring food safety, and supporting smooth meal preparation in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Food Prep Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectFood Prep AssistantKitchen Helper
CredentialsNone required or basic food safety certificationsNone required
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cateringRestaurants, cafeterias, catering
Job DutiesPreparing ingredients, assembling dishes, basic food prepAssisting with cleaning, basic prep, support tasks

Food Prep Assistants focus on preparing ingredients and assembling dishes in professional kitchens, often requiring basic food safety knowledge. Kitchen Helpers typically perform support tasks like cleaning and basic prep, with less emphasis on food preparation. While both roles work in similar environments, Food Prep Assistants have more specialized responsibilities related to food preparation.

What are some common challenges faced by food prep assistants in a fast-paced kitchen environment?

Food Prep Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining speed and accuracy during busy meal periods, adhering to strict hygiene and safety standards, and efficiently managing multiple prep tasks simultaneously. Adapting to last-minute menu changes and effectively communicating with chefs and other kitchen staff are also key to ensuring smooth kitchen operations. Developing strong organizational skills and staying calm under pressure can help overcome these common challenges and contribute to a positive team dynamic.

How to become a food prep assistant?

To become a food prep assistant, typically no formal education is required, but a high school diploma or equivalent is preferred. Relevant skills include basic food safety knowledge, ability to follow instructions, and good time management. Some employers may require food handler's permits or certifications, and on-the-job training is common.

What is a food prep assistant?

Food Prep Assistants are entry-level workers in kitchens who help chefs and cooks by preparing ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and organizing supplies. Their tasks often include washing, chopping, and measuring food items, as well as ensuring workstations are sanitary. They play a vital role in keeping kitchen operations running smoothly and efficiently, especially during busy periods. This position is a common starting point for those interested in advancing to more skilled culinary roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Prep jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Food Prep jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Food Prep Assistant jobs in Arizona?

For Food Prep Assistant jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Prep Assistant jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Prep Assistant jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Food Prep Assistant jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Food Prep Assistant job openings:

Food Prep Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Prep Assistant job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,722 per year, or $14.3 per hour.

Food Prep & Runner, Paradise Valley (Opening Fall 2026)

Too Sweet Cakes

Paradise Valley, AZ • On-site

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Food Prep & Runner, Paradise Valley (Opening Fall 2026)
On-site • Paradise Valley, Arizona, United States
Reports to: General Manager
Classification: Part-time, Hourly, Non-Exempt
Pay Rate: $16.50/hour
Hours: Approximately 25 hours per week
Positions to fill: 2
About the Role
Keep Things Moving. Keep the Floor Ready.
We're hiring two part-time Food Prep & Runners for our upcoming Paradise Valley location, opening Fall 2026. You'll split your time between prepping food items for service and keeping the front-of-house floor stocked, organized, and guest-ready at all times.
It's not the most glamorous role - but it's one of the most essential. The right person will take real pride in being the reason everything runs without a hitch.
Responsibilities
Pre-Opening
  • Complete onboarding and training prior to location opening
  • Learn company food handling procedures, product knowledge, and service standards
  • Assist with café setup, stocking, and operational readiness
  • Participate in team training and support grand opening preparation

Food Prep
  • Prepare food items for service according to company standards and daily prep lists
  • Package, label, and organize product for display and service throughout the shift
  • Receive and verify deliveries from the Phoenix production warehouse - organize by type and communicate any discrepancies
  • Rotate stock and maintain proper food storage and organization in back-of-house areas
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and temperature guidelines
  • Restock prep supplies and communicate inventory needs to the Shift Lead or General Manager

Running & Floor Support
  • Run product from the back of house to the FOH floor continuously - keep displays full, fresh, and visually appealing
  • Monitor product levels proactively and restock before items run out
  • Communicate low stock or availability issues to the Shift Lead or Barista team in real time
  • Support the Barista team during busy periods - restock supplies, clear counters, keep the workspace organized
  • Assist with café cleanliness throughout the shift - floors, surfaces, display cases, and back-of-house areas
  • Support opening and closing duties as assigned

Requirements
  • Previous experience in food service, food prep, or retail preferred - we're happy to train the right person
  • Strong work ethic and ability to stay busy and self-directed throughout a shift
  • Detail-oriented - you notice when things are low, off, or out of place
  • Able to move quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment
  • Comfortable with food handling and willing to follow food safety protocols
  • Reliable and punctual
  • Ability to stand for extended periods, move continuously throughout the space, and lift up to 30 pounds
  • Flexible part-time availability - approximately 25 hours per week including potential early mornings, afternoons, and weekends
  • Must be at least 18 years old

Benefits
  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Employee product discounts
  • Flexible part-time scheduling
  • Paid pre-opening training
  • Opportunity to join a growing company and help launch a new location from the ground up

Apply