ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Internship Prep Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

University of California San Francisco

Cook

Oakland, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Multi-tasks to cook and prep multiple food items at once. * Cook and preps multiple food items at ... Participates in training new employees and Dietetic Interns for shift duties as assigned. * Reports ...

University of California San Francisco

Cook

Oakland, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Multi-tasks to cook and prep multiple food items at once. * Cook and preps multiple food items at ... Participates in training new employees and Dietetic Interns for shift duties as assigned. * Reports ...

SoLa Impact

Part-Time Line Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Maintain organized refrigerators, freezers, dry storage, and prep areas. Teamwork & Professionalism ... Experience working alongside students, interns, or trainees is a plus. * Current California Food ...

SoLa Impact

Part-Time Line Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Maintain organized refrigerators, freezers, dry storage, and prep areas. Teamwork & Professionalism ... Experience working alongside students, interns, or trainees is a plus. * Current California Food ...

SoLa Impact

Part-Time Line Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Maintain organized refrigerators, freezers, dry storage, and prep areas. Teamwork & Professionalism ... Experience working alongside students, interns, or trainees is a plus. * Current California Food ...

Far Niente Winery

Commis Chef

Napa, CA

$25 - $28/hr

Commis Chef / Prep Cook Reports To: Executive Chef Join Our Culinary Team Do you have a passion for ... internships, or personal passion • Ability to work on your feet throughout the shift • Ability ...

New

Far Niente Winery

Commis Chef

Napa, CA

Commis Chef / Prep Cook Reports To: Executive Chef Join Our Culinary Team Do you have a passion for ... internships, or personal passion • Ability to work on your feet throughout the shift • Ability ...

FIRST LIGHT RESORTS LLC

PM Sous Chef

Groveland, CA

$25/hr

PM Sous Chef responsibilities include management, cooking, prep, ordering, inventory, cleaning and ... Support team members and interns while fostering a positive work environment * Work safely, address ...

FIRST LIGHT RESORTS LLC

PM Sous Chef

Groveland, CA · On-site

$25/hr

PM Sous Chef responsibilities include management, cooking, prep, ordering, inventory, cleaning and ... Support team members and interns while fostering a positive work environment * Work safely, address ...

National Health Foundation

Kitchen Lead, Arleta, CA

CA · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

... cooked and adhere to recipe standards. * Maintain a clean and manageable kitchen prep & 3-sink area ... internship programs. * Always follow NHF policies and procedures. Requirements * Must have a ...

Golden Hippo

Visual Design Intern

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Able to prep, export, and optimize assets for digital and print, ensuring deliverables meet quality ... Strong design portfolio * 0-2 years of design experience (internships, freelance, or academic work ...

Golden Hippo

Visual Design Intern

Los Angeles, CA

$18 - $20/hr

Able to prep, export, and optimize assets for digital and print, ensuring deliverables meet quality ... Strong design portfolio * 0-2 years of design experience (internships, freelance, or academic work ...

Golden Hippo

Visual Design Intern

Los Angeles, CA

$18 - $20/hr

Able to prep, export, and optimize assets for digital and print, ensuring deliverables meet quality ... Strong design portfolio * 0-2 years of design experience (internships, freelance, or academic work ...

All JobsPrep Cook JobsInternship Prep Cook JobsInternship Prep Cook Jobs in California

Internship Prep Cook information

What are internship prep cooks?

Internship prep cooks are individuals, often culinary students or recent graduates, who work in kitchens as part of an internship program to gain hands-on experience in food preparation. They assist chefs and other kitchen staff by performing tasks such as chopping vegetables, preparing ingredients, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. This role helps them develop essential cooking skills, learn kitchen operations, and build a foundation for future roles in the culinary industry. An internship as a prep cook is a valuable stepping stone for those interested in pursuing a culinary career.

Is a prep cook an entry level job?

Yes, a prep cook position is generally considered an entry-level job in the culinary industry. It typically requires basic cooking skills, such as knife handling and food preparation, and often does not require prior professional experience. Many employers offer on-the-job training for prep cooks.

What is a cooking internship called?

A cooking internship is often referred to as a culinary internship or kitchen internship. It provides hands-on experience in food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen operations, often requiring basic culinary skills and sometimes certifications like food safety training.

How much do prep chefs get paid?

Prep cooks typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Entry-level prep cooks may start at the lower end, while those with more skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Pay can also include tips and benefits in some settings.

How to get a prep cook job with no experience?

To get a prep cook job with no experience, focus on demonstrating a willingness to learn, punctuality, and a strong work ethic. Entry-level positions often require basic kitchen skills, so gaining familiarity with food safety and knife skills through online tutorials or volunteering can improve your chances. Applying to restaurants that offer on-the-job training and highlighting any relevant soft skills can also help you secure a prep cook role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Internship Prep Cook, and how do they support the kitchen team?

As an Internship Prep Cook, your daily responsibilities usually include preparing ingredients, such as chopping vegetables, portioning meats, and assembling sauces, to ensure that the line cooks and chefs have everything they need for meal service. You may also be responsible for maintaining cleanliness in your prep area, labeling and storing food items, and assisting with basic cooking tasks under supervision. This role is highly collaborative, requiring strong communication with chefs and other kitchen staff to keep the workflow smooth and efficient. The experience gained in this position is essential for building foundational culinary skills and understanding the fast-paced environment of a professional kitchen.

What is the difference between Internship Prep Cook vs Prep Cook?

AspectInternship Prep CookPrep Cook
CredentialsMinimal; often students or entry-levelExperience preferred; culinary certifications optional
Work EnvironmentTraining-focused, entry-level kitchenEstablished kitchen, more responsibilities
Employer UsageInternship programs, culinary schoolsRestaurants, hotels, catering services

The main difference is that an Internship Prep Cook is typically a training position for those gaining experience, often part of a culinary program, while a Prep Cook is a more experienced role responsible for preparing ingredients and assisting in kitchen operations. Internships focus on learning, whereas Prep Cooks are expected to have some foundational skills and contribute to daily kitchen tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Prep Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Prep Cook, you need basic culinary knowledge, knife skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with enrollment in a culinary program. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food safety protocols, and inventory systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring food is prepared safely, efficiently, and to a high standard in a dynamic kitchen environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs in California? The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Internship Prep Cook jobs in California? For Internship Prep Cook jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Internship Prep Cook jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Internship Prep Cook jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Internship Prep Cook jobs? Cities in California with the most Internship Prep Cook job openings:
Internship Prep Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Internship Prep Cook job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Food Service Interns and On-Call Positions

THE HARKER SCHOOL

San Jose, CA • On-site

$18.45 - $24/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Join The Harker School's Food Service team and gain valuable hands-on experience in a fast-paced, collaborative kitchen environment. Whether you're looking for an internship to build your culinary skills or an on-call opportunity with flexible scheduling, you'll work alongside experienced food service professionals while helping provide high-quality meals to our school community.
Responsibilities may include preparing cold and hot foods for breakfast and lunch, assisting with meal preparation, cooking, baking, portioning, plating, and serving food, as well as maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen. Team members support the overall operation by working closely with the Kitchen Manager, Cooks, Pastry Chef, and other food service staff.
Food Service Interns and On-Call employees are expected to support the school's mission, goals, policies, and procedures while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, food safety, and customer service.
Schedules vary based on the position. Internship opportunities are generally Monday through Friday, up to 40 hours per week, with occasional weekend hours as needed. On-call positions are scheduled based on departmental needs.
Click here to learn more about our Food Service Program: http://www.harker.org/food-program
  • Must be currently enrolled in culinary school
  • Ability to receive fingerprint clearance from a federal and state background check
  • Ability to receive a negative TB (Tuberculosis) test result
  • Ability to accept guidance, supervision, and instruction
  • Willingness to work a varied schedule of hours and days assigned in order to fulfill the needs of the food service department of The Harker School

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Assists with menu planning
Prep sandwiches
Prep and maintain salad bar
Help prep food for special events
Stock work station
Assist in prep/preparing and serving meals
Pack field trip lunches when needed
Wrap, label, and date all unused food
Maintain, clean and sanitize kitchen
Prep menu foods needed for the next day
Help stock, prepare, and serve food for snack bar
Organize and clean walk-in, freezer, storeroom and put orders away in proper F.I.F.O
Other Duties and Responsibilities
Assist in other areas, including Dish room, Catering, etc.
Other duties as needed and assigned by the Cook, Kitchen Manager or Food Service Director
Knowledge, Skill & Ability Requirements
Thorough knowledge of proper food handling procedures
The ability to change tasks efficiently and complete assigned jobs on time
The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
Developed knowledge of knife skills and cooking techniques
Knowledge of and ability to operate kitchen equipment safely and effectively
Ability to work cooperatively in a kitchen environment
Ability to work both individually and in a team environment
Ability to understand, accept, and follow; guidance, instruction, supervision, and requests for assistance
Working Conditions:
  • Must work in a noisy and crowded environment
  • Must work in and around fumes and odors
  • Exposure to varying temperatures
  • Exposure to chemicals used in washing dishes, utensils, and surrounding areas of the kitchen
  • Frequently immerses hands in water
  • Must wear proper slip-resistant shoes at all times
  • Must wear required uniform at all times

Our Mission: Our mission is to educate students for success at college and beyond, and to foster kindness, respect and integrity within a safe and nurturing environment. We achieve academic excellence through the development of intellectual curiosity, personal accountability and love of learning. Our comprehensive program and exceptional faculty and staff help students discover, develop and enjoy their unique talents. We honor individuality, embrace diversity, and promote leadership and service, preparing students to take their place as global citizens.

Apply