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Kitchen Help Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Panda Inn

$19 - $22/hr

... kitchen. Essential Functions: * Prepare all meats, fish and vegetables for cooking according to ... Help to marinate meats and other ingredients according to Company recipe and procedure * Ensure ...

Yakiya

Kitchen Help - Yakiya (P1-1956726-1)

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$18.57 - $21.57/hr

... kitchen. Essential Functions: * Prepare all meats, fish and vegetables for cooking according to ... Help to marinate meats and other ingredients according to Company recipe and procedure * Ensure ...

Neighborly Ops LLC

Kitchen Manager

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Help Build a Company. Neighborly isn't just another restaurant. We're building the gathering place ... We're looking for a Kitchen Manager who thrives in fast-paced environments, loves developing people ...

On Lok

Kitchen Helper

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23 - $30.66/hr

Your expertise, drive and passion can help us carry out our mission to improve lives and advance ... Under the direction and supervision of the Lead Cook or Nutrition Services Manager, the Kitchen ...

Neighborly Ops LLC

Kitchen Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Help Build a Company. Neighborly isn't just another restaurant. We're building the gathering place ... We're looking for a Kitchen Manager who thrives in fast-paced environments, loves developing people ...

Neighborly Ops LLC

Kitchen Manager

Studio City, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Help Build a Company. Neighborly isn't just another restaurant. We're building the gathering place ... We're looking for a Kitchen Manager who thrives in fast-paced environments, loves developing people ...

On Lok Lifeways

Kitchen Helper

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$17 - $19.75/hr

Your expertise, drive and passion can help us carry out our mission to improve lives and advance ... Under the direction and supervision of the Lead Cook or Nutrition Services Manager, the Kitchen ...

New

On Lok

Kitchen Helper

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23 - $30.66/hr

Your expertise, drive and passion can help us carry out our mission to improve lives and advance ... Under the direction and supervision of the Lead Cook or Nutrition Services Manager, the Kitchen ...

99 Ranch Market

#62 Kitchen Helper

Fremont, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Previous kitchen, culinary, deli, restaurant, kitchen management, cooking or customer service ... For helpful guidance on identifying job scams, visit this link provided by the Indeed website ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsKitchen Help JobsKitchen Help Jobs in California

Kitchen Help information

See California salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do kitchen help jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen help 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 faced by kitchen help staff, and how can they be managed effectively?

Kitchen help staff often face challenges such as working in a fast-paced environment, maintaining cleanliness during busy service hours, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously. Effective communication with chefs and other kitchen staff is essential to ensure smooth operations and avoid mistakes. Staying organized, following established cleaning routines, and asking for clarification when unsure can help manage these challenges and contribute to a positive team atmosphere.

What is the difference between Kitchen Help vs Dishwasher?

AspectKitchen HelpDishwasher
Primary DutiesAssisting with food prep, cleaning, organizingLoading, unloading, and operating dishwashing equipment
Required SkillsBasic kitchen knowledge, teamworkAbility to operate dishwashing machines, attention to cleanliness
Work EnvironmentKitchen, food prep areasKitchen, dishwashing stations
CertificationsNone typically requiredNone typically required

Kitchen Help and Dishwasher roles both support kitchen operations but differ mainly in duties. Kitchen Help assists with food prep and cleaning, while Dishwashers focus on cleaning dishes and maintaining sanitation. Both roles are entry-level, require minimal certifications, and are essential in restaurant and food service settings.

What is kitchen help?

Kitchen help, also known as kitchen assistants or kitchen aides, are staff members who support the kitchen team by performing basic tasks such as cleaning, food preparation, and organizing supplies. They assist chefs and cooks by washing dishes, chopping vegetables, stocking ingredients, and maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen. Kitchen help play a crucial role in ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently, especially during busy service times. Their work helps keep the kitchen safe, sanitary, and organized. This entry-level position is often a stepping stone to more advanced roles in food service.

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

To thrive as Kitchen Help, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation standards, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, dishwashing machines, and sometimes food handler certifications are typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure help individuals excel in this supportive role. These skills and qualities ensure smooth kitchen operations, maintain food safety, and contribute to a positive work environment.

How to work as a kitchen help?

To work as a kitchen help, you should be prepared to perform tasks such as cleaning dishes, food prep, and maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen. Good communication skills, the ability to follow safety protocols, and physical stamina are important. Some positions may require food safety certifications or prior experience in a kitchen environment.
What are popular job titles related to Kitchen Help jobs in California? For Kitchen Help jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Kitchen Help jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Kitchen Help jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Kitchen Help jobs? Cities in California with the most Kitchen Help job openings:
Kitchen Help jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Help job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,628 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Restaurant Kitchen Help (P1-1457100-0)

Panda Inn

Glendale, CA • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Summary of Job Scope and Expectations: Ensure a constant and adequate supply of ingredients are prepared according to company specifications and local health regulations; assist in ensuring a clean and well-organized kitchen.
Essential Functions:
  • Prepare all meats, fish and vegetables for cooking according to company specifications for size, quantity and recipe, using Chinese knife, meat slicer and food processor as needed
  • Help to marinate meats and other ingredients according to Company recipe and procedure
  • Ensure that all food ingredients are prepared in a safe and sanitary manner, following relevant health regulations
  • Ensure that Apportioner's cold table is kept stocked with all ingredients
  • Sweep, mop the floor and wipe or sanitize equipment & work surfaces as often as needed to maintain a safe and sanitary workplace
  • Lift and carry containers of food items between storage, work stations and counter areas as needed to perform or to assist others in performing their duties
  • Perform side jobs as assigned, and other kitchen duties involving lifting, carrying, cleaning as needed
  • Assist Dishwasher at peak periods when needed - Assist Cook(s) in replenishing supplies of spices at Cook's station
  • Assist Kitchen Manager or Cook in receiving procedures, check samples for freshness/quality, lift containers into storage

Job Requirements:
  • Lift and carry 50 lbs vertically, stand without sitting for up to 5 hours, reach at least 36" horizontally and vertically.
  • Perform repetitious cutting/slicing motions at high speed and in a safe manner using a Chinese cook's knife
  • Practice good personal hygiene at all times -
  • Follow instructions and procedures without deviation through many repetitions and without constant supervision -
  • Work and respond quickly to instructions under pressure at peak periods

How we reward you:**
  • Flexible schedules
  • Great pay
  • Free meals while working at Panda
  • Medical, Vision, Dental, Voluntary Short-Term Disability, Cancer Income Protection insurance for full-time associates
  • Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending accounts
  • 401K with company match
  • Vacation, sick leave, bereavement/funeral leave and Leave Share Program for eligible associates
  • Associate discounts for many brands
  • Referral bonus for eligible associates
  • Opportunity to give back to your community
  • Hands-on paid training to prepare you for success
  • On-Going Career & Leadership Development
  • Opportunities for growth into management positions
  • Pre-Tax Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
  • Please refer to https://www.pandacareers.com/files/PRG_HR_Recruiting_Benefits.pdf for details.

**Candidates must meet, and continue to meet if employed, eligibility requirements for each benefit to qualify.
Pay Range: $20 per hour - $23 per hour
*Within the range, individual pay is determined using various factors, including work location and experience.
ADA Statement:
While performing duties, counter areas are often hot with steam from steam table and food vapors. Workspace is restricted and employees are generally expected to remain standing for long periods of time. Employees must prepare hot and cold foods, use Chinese cook knife and other kitchen equipment and work quickly without losing accuracy. Employees must be able to lift up to 50 lbs., stand up to four hours and reach across counter tops measured at 36 inches to serve customers. Kitchens are hot and noise levels are usually high; storage space is limited and shelving is high. Employees must be able to work in a fast-paced work environment, have effective verbal communication skills, ability to adapt to a dynamic environment with changing priorities, and the ability to manage conflicts/difficult situations.
Panda Strong since 1983:
Founded in Glendale, California, we are now the largest family-owned American Chinese Restaurant concept in America. With close to 2,800 locations globally, we continue our mission of delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences by building an organization where people are inspired to better their lives. Whether it's impacting our team or the communities we work in, we're proud to be an organization that embraces family values.
You're wanted here:
Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal opportunity, and does not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by law, including but not limited to sex/gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and related conditions), gender expression, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, and veteran status. Additionally, Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. complies with all federal, state, and local laws regarding requests for workplace accommodation. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability. Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process, for example, sign language interpreters. If you believe you require an accommodation for the application or interview process or for the position for which you are applying, please reach out to TASupport@PandaRG.com .

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