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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Garden Steward

Healdsburg, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $31/hr

The Role The Kitchen Garden Steward supports the daily operations of the Kitchen Garden and Farm at ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in agriculture, environmental studies, or related field preferred ...

Kitchen Garden Steward

Healdsburg, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $31/hr

The Role The Kitchen Garden Steward supports the daily operations of the Kitchen Garden and Farm at ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in agriculture, environmental studies, or related field preferred ...

Executive Chef

Yountville, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Efficiently supervise, guide and train kitchen associates to provide quality food production for both restaurants and banquets, focusing especially on timing, portions, food quality and sanitation ...

Executive Chef

Yountville, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Efficiently supervise, guide and train kitchen associates to provide quality food production for both restaurants and banquets, focusing especially on timing, portions, food quality and sanitation ...

POSITION SUMMARY The Teaching Kitchen (TK) Coordinator will assist the Teaching Kitchen Manager and ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in culinary arts, food and beverage management, hospitality, or a ...

As a Culinary Lead (what we call a Kitchen Lead at Sweetgreen), you are the food quality expert in the kitchen. You own how our food is prepped, cooked, and presented--and you lead by example through ...

As a Culinary Lead (what we call a Kitchen Lead at Sweetgreen), you are the food quality expert in the kitchen. You own how our food is prepped, cooked, and presented--and you lead by example through ...

As a Culinary Lead (what we call a Kitchen Lead at Sweetgreen), you are the food quality expert in the kitchen. You own how our food is prepped, cooked, and presented--and you lead by example through ...

As a Culinary Lead (what we call a Kitchen Lead at Sweetgreen), you are the food quality expert in the kitchen. You own how our food is prepped, cooked, and presented--and you lead by example through ...

As a Culinary Lead (what we call a Kitchen Lead at Sweetgreen), you are the food quality expert in the kitchen. You own how our food is prepped, cooked, and presented--and you lead by example through ...

Cook I / Cook II

Healdsburg, CA ยท On-site

$26.44 - $28.50/hr

Collaborate with associates to meet production goals and ensure smooth kitchen operations * Assist with training new kitchen associates * Supervise and mentor cooks and kitchen staff, providing ...

Showing results 21-40

Kitchen Associate information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$10

$20

$34

How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen associate in Santa Rosa, CA is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kitchen associate?

Kitchen associates are team members who assist with food preparation, cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the overall organization of a kitchen. They typically work under the supervision of chefs or kitchen managers and help with tasks such as chopping ingredients, washing dishes, stocking supplies, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Kitchen associates play a vital role in keeping the kitchen running efficiently and supporting the culinary team in delivering quality meals.

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

To thrive as a Kitchen Associate, you need a solid understanding of food safety, basic cooking techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies ensure efficient kitchen operations, compliance with health standards, and consistently high-quality food preparation.

What are some typical challenges a kitchen associate faces during busy service periods, and how can they be managed?

During peak meal times, Kitchen Associates often face challenges such as high order volumes, tight deadlines, and maintaining quality standards under pressure. To manage these, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and prioritize tasks efficiently. Many kitchens operate with a strong sense of teamwork, so supporting colleagues and asking for help when needed can make a big difference. Developing good time management skills and staying calm under pressure are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Kitchen Associate vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectKitchen AssociateKitchen Helper
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredMinimal formal credentials; on-the-job training provided
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesSimilar environments, often assisting kitchen staff
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in restaurants, hotels, catering companiesCommonly used interchangeably with Kitchen Associate in hospitality
Job ResponsibilitiesFood prep, dishwashing, maintaining cleanlinessAssisting with basic food prep, cleaning, stocking supplies

Overall, Kitchen Associates typically have more defined responsibilities and may require basic certifications, while Kitchen Helpers focus on assisting with daily tasks and cleaning. Both roles are essential in maintaining efficient kitchen operations.

Can I work in a kitchen as a Kitchen Associate with no experience?

Kitchen Associate positions often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training for tasks like food preparation and cleaning. Basic skills such as teamwork, reliability, and a willingness to learn are valued, and some roles may require food safety certifications which can be obtained quickly. Entry-level roles are suitable for individuals new to the industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:

Kitchen Garden Steward

The Kendal Corporation

Healdsburg, CA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

About Enso Village
Enso Village is a Zen-inspired community with a focus on mindful aging, the joys of nature, sustainability and contemplative life and care for adults 60+. Enso Village is a collaborative endeavor between the Kendal Corporation-an esteemed, nationally recognized leader in senior living guided by the Quaker values of its founders-and the San Francisco Zen Center, one of the first Zen Buddhist organizations in the US, founded by Shunryu Suzuki Roshi.
Enso Village is informed by a set of nine Guiding Principles. These are based on the awareness that we are all connected. We share a commitment to compassion and strive to pay careful attention to the details of everyday life.
As America's first and only Zen-inspired senior living community, Enso Village is a workplace like no other place you have ever worked. Here, our staff and residents engage fully and form close and meaningful relationships. We seek to uphold our professionalism and our humanity in equal measure. We listen with open minds and hearts. We learn something meaningful from every person and every experience. Sustaining others is what sustains us.
The Role
The Kitchen Garden Steward supports the daily operations of the Kitchen Garden and Farm at Enso Village. This role plays a key part in advancing the organization's farm-to-table program by assisting in the production of fresh, seasonal vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers that support the culinary experience and overall wellbeing of residents.
Working under the direction of the Kitchen Garden Manager, the Steward contributes to regenerative and sustainable farming practices while maintaining the garden, surrounding landscape, and farm systems to ensure consistent, high-quality yields.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist with soil preparation, cultivation, and bed maintenance
  • Perform planting activities, including direct seeding and transplanting
  • Set up, monitor, and maintain irrigation systems
  • Conduct routine crop care, including weeding, pruning, and pest management
  • Harvest, wash, and prepare produce for delivery to the kitchen
  • Support propagation activities, including seed starting and nursery care
  • Maintain greenhouse operations and growing environments
  • Assist with composting and soil fertility practices
  • Monitor crop health and identify pests, disease, or nutrient deficiencies
  • Operate and maintain farm tools and equipment safely
  • Maintain garden beds, pathways, and farm infrastructure
  • Perform general farm upkeep, including light repairs and maintenance
  • Support surrounding landscape and hardscape maintenance projects
  • Assist with produce distribution and internal deliveries
  • Support community engagement activities, including workshops, tours, and resident programming
  • Perform physically demanding work, including lifting, bending, and extended periods of standing
  • Performs other duties assigned

Qualifications
Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in agriculture, environmental studies, or related field preferred
  • 2-3 years of experience in farming, gardening, or landscaping preferred

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with tools and equipment
  • Strong attention to detail and reliability
  • Ability to follow direction and work independently or as part of a team
  • Effective interpersonal skills and ability to work in a diverse community

Physical Requirements
  • Work is performed primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting required
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly

As a responsible and safety-conscious organization, we are committed to maintaining a secure and drug-free work environment. To ensure the well-being of our team members and uphold our values, we require candidates to undergo a background check and drug testing as part of our selection process.
Compensation and Benefits:
Enso Village is committed to equal pay and transparency. The salary range for this position is $25.00-$31.00 per hour. Compensation is based on experience, education, skills, and business considerations.
We provide team members with a supportive and inclusive work environment focused on health and well-being. Eligible team members are offered comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage available starting on your first day of employment.
  • Life & Disability Insurance: Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability coverage.
  • Retirement Savings: 403(b) plan with a generous employer match to help you plan for the future.
  • Generous Paid Time Off: Paid annual vacation, sick days, personal days, and holidays.
  • Healthy Meals: Subsidized organic, nutritious meals available daily.
  • Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing career growth and development within the organization.

We value applicants of all different backgrounds, experiences, and skill sets. If you think you could excel in this role (regardless of whether you meet all of the qualifications), we encourage you to apply. Enso Village is an equal opportunity employer which means that we consider applicants for hire and make employment decisions without unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, disability, age, genetic information, or other legally protected status. We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to job applicants who request an accommodation.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.