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Food Prep Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

noun cafe

Food Prep

Marina Del Rey, CA · On-site

$20/hr

... food items (FIFO). * Receive and organize deliveries. * Monitor prep levels and communicate ... Wash dishes and assist with general kitchen cleaning as needed. * Support the kitchen team during ...

Western Assemblies Home Inc

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Meal Prep Assistant

Claremont, CA · On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

Non-profit retirement home is hiring a Meal prep assistant -Must be able to work weekends, holidays ... Need to have current Food Handlers Certificate .Hours will vary from 6-2pm, 8:30-2pm 10am to 6:30pm ...

Western Assemblies Home Inc

Be Seen First

Meal Prep Assistant

Claremont, CA · On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

Non-profit retirement home is hiring a Meal prep assistant -Must be able to work weekends, holidays ... Need to have current Food Handlers Certificate .Hours will vary from 6-2pm, 8:30-2pm 10am to 6:30pm ...

R & R Breakfast Spot

Food Prep Cook

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Keep prep stations, storage areas, coolers, and freezers clean and organized * Assist cooks during busy service periods as needed * Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department ...

Ember Korean BBQ

Food Prep

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

... prep and clean up. They are integral in ensuring an efficient daily operation and keeping the food ... Clean-up and maintenance of back pantry station and dry/wet storage areas * Assist the team with ...

Holiday Inn Redding

Food Prep Cook

Redding, CA · On-site

$20/hr

We're looking for an enthusiastic food prep worker who can deliver outstanding results in the ... * Assist other cooks in the kitchen as needed with preparing simple recipes such as soups, sauce ...

Sizzler

Salad Bar-Food Prep

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Will assist different departments and team mates, other than primary job code, as needed. * Guest ... Food Safety and Sanitation: Will be certified in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements ...

Sizzler

Salad Bar/Food Prep

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.87 - $18/hr

Will assist different departments and team mates, other than primary job code, as needed. * Guest ... Food Safety and Sanitation: Will be certified in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements ...

Sizzler

Salad Bar/Food Prep

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $16.75/hr

Will assist different departments and team mates, other than primary job code, as needed. * Guest ... Food Safety and Sanitation: Will be certified in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements ...

Sizzler

Salad Bar/Food Prep

Downey, CA · On-site

$17.27 - $17.50/hr

Will assist different departments and team mates, other than primary job code, as needed. * Guest ... Food Safety and Sanitation: Will be certified in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements ...

Sizzler

Salad Bar/Food Prep

Hayward, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Will assist different departments and team mates, other than primary job code, as needed. * Guest ... Food Safety and Sanitation: Will be certified in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements ...

Sizzler

Salad Bar/Food Prep

Montebello, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $17.50/hr

Will assist different departments and team mates, other than primary job code, as needed. * Guest ... Food Safety and Sanitation: Will be certified in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements ...

Sizzler

Salad Bar/Food Prep

Culver City, CA · On-site

$17.87/hr

Will assist different departments and team mates, other than primary job code, as needed. * Guest ... Food Safety and Sanitation: Will be certified in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements ...

Sizzler

Salad Bar/Food Prep

Torrance, CA · On-site

$17.87 - $18.50/hr

Will assist different departments and team mates, other than primary job code, as needed. * Guest ... Food Safety and Sanitation: Will be certified in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements ...

Sizzler

Salad Bar/Food Prep

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.28 - $17.50/hr

Will assist different departments and team mates, other than primary job code, as needed. * Guest ... Food Safety and Sanitation: Will be certified in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements ...

Sizzler

Salad Bar/Food Prep

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Will assist different departments and team mates, other than primary job code, as needed. * Guest ... Food Safety and Sanitation: Will be certified in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements ...

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Food Prep Assistant information

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$15

$20

How much do food prep assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for food prep assistant in California is $15.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $16.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

How to become a food prep assistant?

To become a food prep assistant, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic cooking or food handling skills. On-the-job training is common, and knowledge of food safety standards and proper sanitation is important. Some employers may prefer previous experience in food service or culinary skills.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food Prep Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Prep Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,068 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Food Prep

Marina Del Rey, CA • On-site

noun cafe
See more jobs at noun cafeexternal

$20/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Join Our Team!

We’re looking for a dependable, organized, and passionate Prep Cook to join our growing café. If you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, take pride in quality, and love being part of a team that creates exceptional guest experiences, we’d love to meet you.

Position Summary

As a Prep Cook, you’ll be responsible for preparing fresh ingredients, maintaining kitchen organization, and ensuring our culinary team has everything needed for smooth daily operations. This role is essential to delivering consistent, high-quality food while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and food safety.

Responsibilities
  • Prepare vegetables, fruits, proteins, sauces, dressings, and other ingredients according to recipes.
  • Assist with sandwich, salad, breakfast, and café menu preparation.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary workstation throughout each shift.
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department guidelines.
  • Label, date, rotate, and properly store all food items (FIFO).
  • Receive and organize deliveries.
  • Monitor prep levels and communicate inventory needs to management.
  • Wash dishes and assist with general kitchen cleaning as needed.
  • Support the kitchen team during busy service periods.
  • Maintain a positive attitude and contribute to a collaborative work environment.
Qualifications
  • Previous prep cook or kitchen experience preferred 
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong attention to detail and organization.
  • Reliable, punctual, and team oriented.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
  • Food Handler Certification 
What We’re Looking For
  • Positive attitude
  • Strong work ethic
  • Sense of urgency
  • Dependability
  • Coachable mindset
  • Pride in cleanliness and quality
  • Passion for hospitality and great food
Schedule
  • Part-time available
  • Morning and weekend availability preferred
  • Flexible scheduling
What We Offer
  • Competitive hourly pay 
  • Employee meal and beverage discounts
  • Opportunities for growth and advancement
  • Positive, team-focused work culture
  • Consistent hours and supportive leadership

If you’re someone who enjoys preparing fresh food, working with a great team, and helping create memorable guest experiences, we’d love to hear from you!

More detail about noun cafe, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/954751-noun-cafe