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Junior Chef Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cluck & Char

Be Seen First

Junior Chef

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

This is a rare opportunity to become the first chef hired by the company and help establish the culinary foundation from day one. We are not looking for a celebrity chef or a six-figure executive ...

New

RMD Group, LLC

Junior Sous Chef

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Junior Sous Chef Hourly | Full-Time | $23.00-$25.00/hr + Tips We're seeking a motivated, hands-on Junior Sous Chef to support culinary operations at Rustic Root. This role is ideal for an experienced ...

San Manuel Casino

Junior Sous Chef

Highland, CA

$49K - $67K/yr

The Junior Sous Chef operates as a representation of the culinary team's best-in-class culture, championing the goals and priorities of the Tribe in a manner that reflects and upholds the Tribal ...

Palace Casino Resort

Jr. Specialty Chef - elementa

Pala, CA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

Pala, CA Under the direction of the Senior Executive Chef/Specialty Sous Chef, the Junior Specialty Chef supports culinary management and hourly staff in daily overall kitchen operations for the ...

San Manuel Casino

Prep Cook

Highland, CA

$14.25 - $18/hr

Under the direction of the Sous Chef - F&B, the Prep Cook will assist the Junior Chef in the preparation of dim sum Chinese BBQ and Wok station food, food orders as well as control production levels ...

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

Prep Cook

Highland, CA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Under the direction of the Sous Chef - F&B, the Prep Cook will assist the Junior Chef in the preparation of dim sum Chinese BBQ and Wok station food, food orders as well as control production levels ...

Yaamava' Resort & Casino at San Manuel

Prep Cook

Highland, CA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Under the direction of the Sous Chef - F&B, the Prep Cook will assist the Junior Chef in the preparation of dim sum Chinese BBQ and Wok station food, food orders as well as control production levels ...

Sifted LLC

Junior Sous Chef

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$32/hr

About the role Sifted is hiring a Junior Sous Chef in our Redwood City kitchen to support the Managing Chef in daily food production and kitchen operations. What you'll be doing * Leading production ...

New

Hotel Figueroa

Junior Sous Chef

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$53K - $72K/yr

Overview The Junior Sous Chef assists the Sous Chef and Executive Chef in the daily operation of the kitchen, ensuring high-quality food preparation, efficient kitchen operations, and compliance with ...

Highgate Hotels

Junior Sous Chef

Los Angeles, CA

$53K - $72K/yr

The Junior Sous Chef assists the Sous Chef and Executive Chef in the daily operation of the kitchen, ensuring high-quality food preparation, efficient kitchen operations, and compliance with all food ...

Hotel Figueroa

Junior Sous Chef

Los Angeles, CA

$53K - $72K/yr

Overview The Junior Sous Chef assists the Sous Chef and Executive Chef in the daily operation of the kitchen, ensuring high-quality food preparation, efficient kitchen operations, and compliance with ...

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All JobsChef JobsJunior Chef JobsJunior Chef Jobs in California

Junior Chef information

See California salary details

$18.8K

$51.8K

$86.8K

How much do junior chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior chef in California is $51,775.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,500.00 and $56,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior chef?

Junior Chefs are entry-level culinary professionals who assist in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of food in kitchens. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced chefs, such as Sous Chefs or Head Chefs, and help with basic tasks like chopping vegetables, maintaining cleanliness, and following recipes. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and is often the first step in a culinary career, allowing individuals to learn essential kitchen skills and gain exposure to a professional kitchen environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Chef, you need a basic knowledge of culinary techniques, food safety standards, and a relevant qualification such as a culinary diploma or certificate. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, recipe management systems, and HACCP protocols is important for daily operations. Strong teamwork, time management, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills that set standout Junior Chefs apart. These competencies ensure efficient kitchen performance, consistent food quality, and smooth collaboration in a demanding culinary environment.

What are some common challenges a junior chef might face when working in a fast-paced kitchen environment?

Junior Chefs often encounter challenges such as maintaining composure during busy service hours, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and learning complex recipes quickly. Adapting to the kitchen's fast pace while ensuring consistency and quality in dishes can be demanding, especially when working alongside more experienced chefs. Developing strong communication skills and a keen sense of organization will help you overcome these hurdles and succeed in this collaborative environment.

What is the difference between Junior Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectJunior ChefLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training or certificationOften similar, may require experience in kitchen
Work EnvironmentAssists senior chefs, works in kitchenPrepares specific dishes on the line during service
Employer UsageHotels, restaurants, cateringRestaurants, hotels, catering
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level culinary rolesLearning specific station duties in kitchen

Junior Chefs and Line Cooks both work in kitchens and require culinary training. Junior Chefs often assist senior staff and may have broader responsibilities, while Line Cooks focus on preparing dishes at specific stations during service. Both roles are common in similar settings, but Junior Chefs typically have a slightly higher level of responsibility and may be on a career path toward higher culinary positions.

How do you become a junior chef?

To become a junior chef, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue culinary training through vocational schools or culinary programs. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level kitchen positions helps develop basic cooking skills and knowledge of kitchen safety and hygiene standards.

How much do junior chefs make?

Junior chefs typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $10 to $15, with annual salaries between $20,000 and $30,000 depending on location, experience, and establishment. Entry-level positions often require basic culinary skills and may include on-the-job training.

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

The most popular types of Chef jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Chef jobs in California?

For Junior Chef jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Chef jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Chef jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Junior Chef jobs?

Cities in California with the most Junior Chef job openings:

Junior Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Chef job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,775 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Junior Chef

Cluck & Char

Foothill Ranch, CA • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

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Job description

Cluck & Char is not just another chicken restaurant.

We're building a modern fast-casual brand centered around fire, flavor, speed, hospitality, and consistency. Our menu features roasted chicken, handcrafted sandwiches, fresh sides, and bold sauces—all designed with quality in mind.

This is a rare opportunity to become the first chef hired by the company and help establish the culinary foundation from day one.

We are not looking for a celebrity chef or a six-figure executive chef.

We're looking for a talented Level 2 Chef who has recently graduated from culinary school, is eager to learn, enjoys working with systems, and wants to grow alongside an expanding company.

The Position

Level 2 Chef (Hourly) – Entry-level culinary position with significant growth potential

What You'll Do

●       Prepare and execute recipes with precision and consistency

●       Assist in recipe development and testing

●       Help standardize recipes and operating procedures for future scaling

●       Maintain food quality, safety, and presentation standards

●       Work directly alongside ownership during the startup phase

●       Manage inventory and contribute to food cost control

●       Maintain an organized, clean, and professional kitchen

●       Learn every station and develop deep culinary skills

Requirements

●       Recent graduate of an accredited culinary school or entry level chef experience

●       Fluent in English (speaking, reading, writing) and Spanish is an asset.

●       Passion for cooking and continuous learning

●       Strong work ethic and positive attitude

●       Team oriented mindset

●       Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment

●       Authorized to work in the United States

Who This Position Is Perfect For

Someone who wants to grow with an emerging restaurant company, is excited about building processes from the beginning, takes pride in consistency and execution, and is looking for opportunity—not just another kitchen job.

Company Description

Cluck & Char is a new concept centered around rotisserie chicken, salad and rice bowls and wraps.