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Kitchen Hand Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

At California Pizza Kitchen, we bring the biggest and best parts of ourselves to work and to our ... Employee driven assistance program called the Kindness Fund which lends a helping hand to our team ...

At California Pizza Kitchen, we bring the biggest and best parts of ourselves to work and to our ... Employee driven assistance program called the Kindness Fund which lends a helping hand to our team ...

New

Kitchen Manager

Chino Hills, CA · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

At California Pizza Kitchen, we bring the biggest and best parts of ourselves to work and to our ... Employee driven assistance program called the Kindness Fund which lends a helping hand to our team ...

At California Pizza Kitchen, we bring the biggest and best parts of ourselves to work and to our ... Employee driven assistance program called the Kindness Fund which lends a helping hand to our team ...

New

At California Pizza Kitchen, we bring the biggest and best parts of ourselves to work and to our ... Employee driven assistance program called the Kindness Fund which lends a helping hand to our team ...

At California Pizza Kitchen, we bring the biggest and best parts of ourselves to work and to our ... Employee driven assistance program called the Kindness Fund which lends a helping hand to our team ...

Highly Skilled Kitchen Staff Needed at Sonic Drive-In Are you a talented cook with a passion for ... We take pride in serving 100% pure beef patties, hand-made onion rings, and real ice cream. Our ...

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The Kitchen Manager is responsible for overseeing employees in the continual pursuit of ... it by hand in our restaurants. Produce is delivered fresh to our kitchens several times a week.

DELI KITCHEN CLERK - PREP COOK REGULAR PART TIME - $19.00-22.00/HR SHIFTS: COMPLETE OPEN ... Wash, soak, cut, peel and chop ingredients by hand or machine. * Package, weigh, and label products ...

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Learning first-hand from an experienced Operator and Restaurant Leaders * Intentional growth and ... Keep the kitchen neat, clean and orderly at all times * Keep up-to-date with new products rolled ...

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Kitchen Manager

Rohnert Park, CA · On-site

$74K - $85K/yr

Kitchen Manager - Cattlemens Restaurants Be Part of a Family-Owned Steakhouse Tradition for Over 55 ... We are one of the only family-owned and operated steakhouses in the West, proudly serving hand-cut ...

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Learning first-hand from an experienced Operator and Restaurant Leaders * Intentional growth and ... Keep the kitchen neat, clean and orderly at all times * Keep up-to-date with new products rolled ...

Kitchen Assistant

Livermore, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Description: Residential Kitchen Assistant Work Location: Galt, CA POSITION SUMMARY: The ... hand, grasp and reach as needed. · Ability to provide first aid as needed. BENEFITS · Medical ...

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At California Pizza Kitchen, we bring thebiggestandbestparts of ourselves to work and to our ... Employee driven assistance program called the Kindness Fund which lends a helping hand to our team ...

At California Pizza Kitchen, we bring thebiggestandbestparts of ourselves to work and to our ... Employee driven assistance program called the Kindness Fund which lends a helping hand to our team ...

New

At California Pizza Kitchen, we bring thebiggestandbestparts of ourselves to work and to our ... Employee driven assistance program called the Kindness Fund which lends a helping hand to our team ...

New

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Kitchen Hand information

See California salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do kitchen hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen hand in California is $15.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges kitchen hands face during busy service periods, and how can they manage them effectively?

Kitchen hands often encounter fast-paced and high-pressure environments during peak meal times, where multitasking and time management are crucial. Some common challenges include keeping up with dishwashing loads, maintaining cleanliness, and quickly restocking supplies while ensuring safety standards are met. To manage these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with chefs and other team members, and anticipate needs before they arise. Developing a routine and staying calm under pressure can greatly improve efficiency and job satisfaction.

What is the difference between Kitchen Hand vs Kitchen Porter?

AspectKitchen HandKitchen Porter
CredentialsNone typically requiredNone typically required
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cafesHotels, restaurants, catering services
Job DutiesAssisting with food prep, cleaning, dishwashingCleaning kitchen areas, dishwashing, basic support
Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food serviceOften used interchangeably with Kitchen Hand in hospitality

Both roles involve cleaning and basic support tasks in kitchens, with slight variations in terminology depending on the employer. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Kitchen Hand' is more common in Australia, while 'Kitchen Porter' is frequently used in the UK and other regions.

What is a kitchen hand called?

A kitchen hand is a person who assists in food preparation, cleaning, and maintaining the kitchen environment. They often perform tasks such as washing dishes, cleaning surfaces, and supporting chefs and cooks in a fast-paced setting.

What is the work of a kitchen hand?

A kitchen hand assists in basic food preparation, cleaning dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment, and maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen environment. They support chefs and kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations and may need to follow safety and hygiene standards. The role often requires physical stamina and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced setting.

What are kitchen hands?

Kitchen hands are essential support staff in commercial kitchens, responsible for assisting chefs and cooks by performing tasks such as washing dishes, cleaning kitchen areas, preparing ingredients, and maintaining overall hygiene. They help ensure the smooth running of food service operations by handling routine but vital duties. Kitchen hands often work in restaurants, cafes, hotels, and catering companies, and their role is crucial for maintaining a clean and organized workspace. This entry-level position can provide valuable experience for those interested in pursuing further careers in hospitality or culinary arts.

What is the easiest job in a kitchen?

A kitchen hand is often considered one of the easiest roles in a kitchen, involving basic tasks such as washing dishes, cleaning, and assisting with food prep. This position typically requires minimal experience and skills, making it accessible for entry-level workers. It also provides a good opportunity to learn about kitchen operations and develop foundational skills.

What is another name for a kitchen hand?

A kitchen hand is also commonly called a kitchen porter or kitchen assistant. These roles involve basic food preparation, cleaning, and supporting kitchen staff in a fast-paced environment. The position often requires teamwork and familiarity with kitchen hygiene standards.

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

To thrive as a Kitchen Hand, you need basic food handling knowledge, physical stamina, and attention to cleanliness, often supported by a food safety certificate. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, dishwashers, and cleaning supplies is commonly required. Reliability, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure a safe, hygienic, and smoothly run kitchen, supporting overall kitchen operations and food quality.
What are popular job titles related to Kitchen Hand jobs in California? For Kitchen Hand jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Kitchen Hand jobs? Cities in California with the most Kitchen Hand job openings:
Infographic showing various Kitchen Hand job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,628 per year, or $15.2 per hour.
Kitchen Manager

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


California Pizza Kitchen rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 86 rated restaurants


Job description

At California Pizza Kitchen, we bring the biggest and best parts of ourselves to work and to our communities, and are guided by our ROCKS philosophy (Respect, Opportunity, Communication, Kindness and Service). We are committed to moving people forward and encourage everyone to apply their passion at CPK. So go ahead…be bold, be epic, be YOU!

THE PERKS

  • Comprehensive eight-week training program utilizing several methods of learning including online, book and shoulder-to-shoulder teaching.
  • Tremendously passionate, one-of-a-kind company culture.
  • Opportunities for growth and development. We love promoting from within!
  • Unique electronic learning platform appropriately titled “The Proof” to engage continuous development.
  • All the pizza you can eat! Manager meals while working and a Management Dine-Out card to enjoy with your family and friends.
  • An environment where you can express your unique talents and skills.
  • Employee driven assistance program called the Kindness Fund which lends a helping hand to our team members encountering life challenges.
  • Industry competitive compensation package including bonus potential.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision and more.

OUR EXPECTATIONS

  • Delivering a phenomenal guest experience. 
  • Overseeing the day-to-day functioning of the kitchen, ensuring smooth coordination between food preparation, cooking, and plating. Maintain optimal workflow during peak periods and adapt, as necessary.
  • Leading and inspiring the team with a people-first mentality to build on CPK's best in class culture.
  • Building a team around hospitality and culinary execution and developing top talent to drive the business forward - fostering career growth and cross training for the team.
  • Building sales, profitability, and guest counts.
  • Managing the P&L for the restaurant.
  • Meeting financial objectives by forecasting, adjusting labor expenditures, practicing portion controls, preparing budgets, and analyzing variances. 
  • Utilizing excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively interact with employees, guests, suppliers and senior management. Proficiency in Spanish is a plus.
  • Maintaining a safe and healthy environment by establishing, following, and complying with sanitation standards and procedures

WHO IS CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN

We are passionate individuals committed to inspiring others by bringing California creativity to every meal! Founded in 1985, former federal prosecutors Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax combined their fervor for food and fresh ingredients to create innovative, hearth-baked pizzas such as The Original BBQ Chicken, California Club and Thai Chicken that are created in a lively open kitchen. The concept gave California a place in the pizza revolution alongside Chicago and New York. CPK has since become the place for taste makers, rule breakers and earth shakers who conquer challenges by daring to work on the edge and thinking outside the box. 

REQUIREMENTS

  • Minimum of two years BOH management experience in a high volume, faced paced restaurant. 
  • Strong communication skills – verbal and written.
  • Exceptional leadership skills – ability to motivate, inspire and develop a team.
  • Passionate about execution, hospitality and service. 

While performing the duties of this job the employee is frequently exposed to computer terminals. The noise level and temperature is moderate. The employee has the ability to sit, stand and/or walk for up to 10 hours a day. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, bend or kneel, lift up to 40 lbs. and perform other diverse physical tasks as needed. The vision requirements include: close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

NOTE: CPK reserves the right to revise or change the position plan as the need arises. This position plan is not all inclusive of total job responsibilities nor does it constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

A full job description, including physical demands of the job is available upon request.

The current salary range for this position is USD $70,000 to $75,000

Various benefits are available for this position, including 401K, health, dental, vision, and disability insurance through CPK’s designated providers. CPK regularly reviews its benefits offerings and may change benefits and providers from time to time.

California Pizza Kitchen is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, or any other legally protected classification. Everyone has a seat at our table.


What California Pizza Kitchen employees say

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California Pizza Kitchen logo

About California Pizza Kitchen

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), based in Los Angeles, California, US, operates in the restaurant industry, particularly renowned for its unique style of pizza. Established in 1985 by attorneys Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax, CPK quickly gained popularity for its innovative recipes, including the iconic BBQ Chicken Pizza. With a firm commitment to quality and creativity, the mission at CPK is to give a unique dining experience where authentic California-style cuisine is presented in imaginative ways. The company's offerings extend beyond pizzas to include a wide variety of salads, pastas, soups, sandwiches and desserts among other items.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1985