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Food Preparation Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Tracy, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

Advocate Aurora Health

Preparation Cook

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$19.80 - $29.70/hr

Two years' experience in food services, in a medical environment preferred. LICENSURE ... preparation, service, and safety Ability to work independently and efficiently, taking necessary ...

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Concord, CA

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

Marriott

Banquet Preparation Cook

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and food preparation checklist. Prepare cold foods. Operate ovens, stoves, grills, microwaves, and fryers. Test ...

Marriott

Banquet Preparation Cook

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and food preparation checklist. Prepare cold foods. Operate ovens, stoves, grills, microwaves, and fryers. Test ...

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Concord, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Concord, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Concord, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

San Pablo, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Hayward, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Oakland, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Hayward, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Dublin, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

El Pollo Loco

Food Preparation

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Food Preparation/Dishwasher Food Preparation/Dishwasher Job Summary: Prepare all the delicious side dishes that accompany our chicken, assist in maintaining the kitchen clean and organized.

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Food Preparation Cook information

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How much do food preparation cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for food preparation cook in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food preparation cook?

Food Preparation Cooks, also known as prep cooks, are kitchen staff responsible for preparing ingredients and assisting chefs or line cooks in restaurant and food service settings. Their duties typically include washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, preparing simple dishes, and ensuring the kitchen is clean and organized. Prep cooks play a crucial role in making sure that meals are prepared efficiently and according to recipes. They often work under the supervision of chefs and help maintain a smooth workflow in the kitchen.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food preparation cook?

To thrive as a Food Preparation Cook, you need a solid understanding of basic cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen sanitation, often supported by a food handler’s permit or similar certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and recipe management software is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safety, and smooth kitchen operations in a fast-paced environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by food preparation cooks, and how can they be managed on the job?

Food preparation cooks often face challenges such as working efficiently under time pressure, maintaining consistent food quality, and adhering to strict food safety standards. Balancing multiple tasks, such as prepping ingredients, keeping workstations clean, and assisting chefs, requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Effective communication with team members and a willingness to adapt to changing kitchen demands can help manage these challenges and contribute to a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Food Preparation Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectFood Preparation CookLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary skills, food safety certificationsSimilar culinary skills, often with additional station-specific training
Work EnvironmentKitchen, food prep areas, sometimes in catering or large kitchensHot line stations in restaurants, fast-paced kitchen settings
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, catering services, hotelsRestaurants, hotels, catering
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for kitchen roles involving food prepCompared for station-specific cooking roles

Food Preparation Cooks focus on preparing ingredients and dishes in a variety of kitchen settings, often handling multiple tasks. Line Cooks specialize in cooking specific dishes at designated stations during service. Both roles require culinary skills and food safety knowledge, but Food Preparation Cooks typically handle prep work, while Line Cooks focus on cooking during service hours.

Do food preparation cooks make good money?

Food preparation cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and experience, with median pay around minimum wage to slightly above, depending on the establishment. Experienced cooks or those working in high-end restaurants can earn higher wages, and some may receive tips or benefits. Overall, the pay is generally considered modest compared to other culinary or hospitality roles.

How to get a job as a food preparation cook?

To become a food preparation cook, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience in food handling or cooking. Gaining skills through on-the-job training or culinary courses can improve your chances, and certifications like food safety training are often preferred by employers.

Is a food preparation cook an entry level job?

A food preparation cook is often considered an entry-level position in the culinary industry, suitable for individuals with basic cooking skills and little prior experience. Many entry-level cooks learn on the job, develop skills such as knife handling and food safety, and may progress to higher roles with experience and additional training. Certifications like food handler permits can be beneficial but are not always required for entry-level roles.
More about Food Preparation Cook jobs

What job categories do people searching Food Preparation Cook jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Preparation Cook jobs are:

Food Preparation Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Preparation Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

Food Preparation Cook (Breakfast) Marlin Moon

Ocean City, MD • On-site

Harrison Group
See more jobs at Harrison Groupexternal

$17 - $21/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and creative coastal cuisine, Marlin Moon offers a modern take on Eastern Shore dining in a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Featuring signature seafood dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and a welcoming ambiance, Marlin Moon delivers a memorable experience for both hotel guests and local patrons alike.
Located on 33rd Street inside the DoubleTree by Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront, Marlin Moon serves breakfast and dinner in a high-energy, seasonal resort environment. With a strong reputation for quality, hospitality, and elevated coastal flavors, the restaurant blends casual comfort with exceptional service, making it a favorite destination for both everyday dining and special occasions.
Marlin Moon is proudly operated by The Harrison Group, a multi-property hospitality company with over 50 years of experience in Ocean City and surrounding coastal markets. The Harrison Group is committed to operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and developing hospitality professionals who are passionate about service, leadership, and continuous growth.
Job Summary:
The Food Preparation Cook (Breakfast) is responsible for assisting in the preparation of ingredients and food items according to established recipes and kitchen standards. This role supports kitchen operations by ensuring ingredients are properly prepped, organized, and ready for service while maintaining a clean and sanitary work environment.
Duties/Responsibilities:
  1. Washes, peels, cuts, chops, and prepares ingredients such as vegetables, meats, and other food items.
  2. Measures and mixes ingredients according to recipes and portion standards.
  3. Prepares sauces, dressings, and other basic food components as directed.
  4. Labels, dates, and properly stores food items in accordance with food safety and sanitation standards.
  5. Maintains cleanliness and organization of prep areas, equipment, and storage spaces.
  6. Assists with receiving and stocking deliveries, ensuring proper rotation of food inventory (FIFO).
  7. Cleans and sanitizes workstations, utensils, and equipment before, during, and after shifts.
  8. Supports line cooks and kitchen staff during service as needed.
  9. Performs inventory checks and completes food storage and temperature logs.
  10. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:
  1. Basic written and verbal communication skills.
  2. Strong attention to detail and ability to follow recipes and instructions.
  3. Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
  4. Organizational skills and ability to maintain a clean workspace.
  5. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
  6. Understanding of basic food safety and sanitation practices.

Education and Experience:
  1. High school diploma or GED preferred.
  2. Previous experience in a kitchen or food preparation role preferred but not required.
  3. Basic knowledge of food handling, preparation techniques, and kitchen equipment.
  4. Familiarity with food safety standards is a plus.

Physical Requirements:
  1. Prolonged periods of standing, walking, and performing repetitive food preparation tasks.
  2. Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds at times.
  3. Must be able to work in a kitchen environment with exposure to varying temperatures, including heat and cold.

Harrison Group is an equal opportunity employer of all qualified individuals. We are committed to creating a diverse and welcoming workplace that includes individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We believe that enables us to grow as a company while serving customers throughout our communities. Black, Indigenous and People of Color, women, LGBTQIA+, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
The pay range for this role is:
17 - 21 USD per hour (Ocean City)

Apply