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Food Prep Associate Jobs in Altadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

Meal Prep Associate

Chino, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Our prepared meal and rotisserie chicken associates prepare fresh food items daily for our members through following recipes and preparing our always warm and ready rotisserie chicken. We'll also ...

Meal Prep Associate

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Our prepared meal and rotisserie chicken associates prepare fresh food items daily for our members through following recipes and preparing our always warm and ready rotisserie chicken. We'll also ...

Meal Prep Associate

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Our prepared meal and rotisserie chicken associates prepare fresh food items daily for our members through following recipes and preparing our always warm and ready rotisserie chicken. We'll also ...

Meal Prep Associate

South Gate, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Our prepared meal and rotisserie chicken associates prepare fresh food items daily for our members through following recipes and preparing our always warm and ready rotisserie chicken. We'll also ...

Meal Prep Associate

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Our prepared meal and rotisserie chicken associates prepare fresh food items daily for our members through following recipes and preparing our always warm and ready rotisserie chicken. We'll also ...

Meal Prep Associate

Glendora, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Our prepared meal and rotisserie chicken associates prepare fresh food items daily for our members through following recipes and preparing our always warm and ready rotisserie chicken. We'll also ...

Meal Prep Associate

La Habra, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Our prepared meal and rotisserie chicken associates prepare fresh food items daily for our members through following recipes and preparing our always warm and ready rotisserie chicken. We'll also ...

Meal Prep Associate

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $27.50/hr

Our prepared meal and rotisserie chicken associates prepare fresh food items daily for our members through following recipes and preparing our always warm and ready rotisserie chicken. We'll also ...

Meal Prep Associate

El Monte, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Our prepared meal and rotisserie chicken associates prepare fresh food items daily for our members through following recipes and preparing our always warm and ready rotisserie chicken. We'll also ...

PREP COOK

Universal City, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a full time PREP COOK position. * Location : NBCUniversal - 100 ... of food supply. * Resolves customer concerns. * Performs other duties as assigned. Associates at ...

PREP COOK (FULL TIME)

Universal City, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a full time PREP COOK position. * Location : NBCUniversal - 100 ... of food supply. * Resolves customer concerns. * Performs other duties as assigned. Associates at ...

PREP COOK (FULL TIME)

Universal City, CA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a full time PREP COOK position. * Location : NBCUniversal - 100 ... of food supply. * Resolves customer concerns. * Performs other duties as assigned. Associates at ...

Be Seen First

Kitchen Associate at Bafang Dumpling will be assigned specifically to support our Kitchen operation, including dumpling wrapping, food prep, grill & fry, etc. We are looking to immediately hire ...

The decisions, actions and attitudes of our associates earn the trust and loyalty of our clients ... Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ...

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

PREP COOK

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Previous prep cooking experience is preferred. * Pay Range: $18.00 per hour to $18.75 per hour ... of food supply. * Resolves customer concerns. * Performs other duties as assigned. Associates at ...

PREP COOK

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Prior prep cook experience is required. * Pay Range: $18.00 per hour to $18.25 per hour. *Internal ... of food supply. * Resolves customer concerns. * Performs other duties as assigned. Associates at ...

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Food Prep Associate information

See Altadena, CA salary details

$10

$18

$23

How much do food prep associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for food prep associate in Altadena, CA is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges food prep associates face during busy meal times?

Food Prep Associates often experience high-pressure situations during peak meal times, such as lunch and dinner rushes. Managing time efficiently, keeping workstations organized, and maintaining food safety standards can be challenging when orders are coming in quickly. Effective communication with kitchen staff and front-of-house teams is crucial to ensure orders are accurate and timely. Adapting to changing priorities and staying calm under pressure are essential skills for success in this fast-paced environment.

How to become a food prep associate?

To become a food prep associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience in food handling or kitchen work. Basic skills include knowledge of food safety practices, ability to follow instructions, and familiarity with kitchen tools and equipment. Some employers may require food safety certifications such as ServSafe.

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

AspectFood Prep AssociateKitchen Helper
ResponsibilitiesPreparing ingredients, assembling dishes, following recipesAssisting with basic kitchen tasks, cleaning, and supporting cooks
CredentialsHigh school diploma often preferred; food safety certificationsMinimal formal credentials; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesSimilar settings, often in fast-paced kitchens
Industry UsageCommonly used in restaurants and food serviceOften used interchangeably with Food Prep Associate in entry-level roles

While both roles support kitchen operations, Food Prep Associates focus more on preparing ingredients and assembling dishes, whereas Kitchen Helpers assist with basic tasks and cleaning. The roles often overlap, but Food Prep Associates typically require some food safety knowledge and specific prep skills, making them slightly more specialized.

What is a food prep associate?

Food Prep Associates are workers responsible for preparing ingredients and assisting with basic cooking tasks in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their duties often include washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen, and following food safety procedures. They support chefs and cooks to ensure efficient meal preparation and service. This role is essential for keeping kitchen operations running smoothly and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food prep associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Prep Associate, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications (like ServSafe), and inventory systems is often required. Attention to detail, time management, teamwork, and a positive attitude are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality food preparation in a fast-paced environment, directly impacting customer satisfaction and operational success.
What cities near Altadena, CA are hiring for Food Prep Associate jobs? Cities near Altadena, CA with the most Food Prep Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Prep Associate job openings in Altadena, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,640 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Kitchen Prep Associate - Barista and Apps

Din Tai Fung

Brea, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Din Tai Fung Restaurant rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 87 rated restaurants


Job description

As a Kitchen Prep Associate - Apps, you play a key dual role in bringing the Din Tai Fung (DTF) experience to life behind the scenes. You'll prepare all beverages at the Boba station, plate appetizer items at the side station, and carefully pack takeout orders at the Packing Station, all in alignment with our established recipes and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
This role is all about precision, consistency, and teamwork. You'll keep all three stations clean, organized, and fully stocked, taking inventory and restocking as needed to ensure service flows smoothly.
Note: The Kitchen Prep Associate - Apps position is a Back of House (Kitchen) role.
WHY JOIN DIN TAI FUNG?
Din Tai Fung is a globally celebrated, family-owned restaurant brand founded in 1972 and internationally renowned for its iconic Xiao Long Bao. With more than 165 locations across 13 countries including 20 in North America. DTF is Michelin-recognized and admired for its uncompromising quality, authentic flavors, and warm, gracious hospitality. Each location delivers an elevated yet inviting cultural dining experience designed to delight guests on any occasion.
LOCATION: 1401 Brea Mall, Brea, CA 92821, USA ( Opening Soon )
**Please note interviews will be scheduled to take place between June 29 - July 15**
PAY RATE FOR Kitchen Prep Associate - Apps : $20.00 per hour
BENEFITS AND PERKS:
  • Competitive Pay & Benefits
  • Employer Contribution for individuals and eligible dependents' medical insurance
  • Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Commuter Spending Accounts
  • 401(k) Plan with company match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Discounts through BenefitHub
  • Employee Meal Discounts
  • Opportunities for growth; we love promoting within!

JOB REQUIREMENTS FOR Kitchen Prep Associate - Apps:
We are searching for friendly, energetic, highly motivated people who will thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
  • Experience preferred but not required
  • Open Availability
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time
  • Positive and Professional Attitude

NOTE: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying the position. Employees will be required to perform any other job-related duties assigned by their supervisor.
Applicant must be 18 years of age or older and able to provide documentation to work in the United States legally
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Din Tai Fung North America is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment and welcome all qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status, in accordance with applicable federal, state/provincial, and local laws.
U.S. Employment Eligibility:
In the United States, Din Tai Fung North America participates in E-Verify to confirm work authorization for all new hires. To learn more, please visit: https://www.e-verify.gov/employees.

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