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Kitchen Help Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Alameda Health System

AHD Kitchen Helper

Alameda, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

The AHD Kitchen Helper for Alameda Hospital assists with the preparation and service of food using proper food handling and food safety techniques. Performs related duties as required. DUTIES ...

Alameda Health System

AHD Kitchen Helper

Alameda, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

The AHD Kitchen Helper for Alameda Hospital assists with the preparation and service of food using proper food handling and food safety techniques. Performs related duties as required. DUTIES ...

Alameda Health System

AHD Kitchen Helper

Alameda, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

The AHD Kitchen Helper for Alameda Hospital assists with the preparation and service of food using proper food handling and food safety techniques. Performs related duties as required. DUTIES ...

Alameda Health System

AHD Kitchen Helper

Alameda, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

The AHD Kitchen Helper for Alameda Hospital assists with the preparation and service of food using proper food handling and food safety techniques. Performs related duties as required. DUTIES ...

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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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 Sep 14, 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 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.

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 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, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,628 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Kitchen Helper

Coalinga, CA • On-site

West Hills Community College District
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about West Hills Community College Districtexternal

$16.90/hr

Temporary

Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary: $16.90 Hourly
Location : Coalinga College, CA
Job Type: Temporary
Job Number: 6400010
Department: Food Services
Opening Date: 07/06/2026
Closing Date: 12/31/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Job Description
Coalinga College
Kitchen Helper
Temporary Employment
$16.90 per hour
-Schedule-
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday
12:45 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.
Position Duties
SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the Food Services Manager, prepare Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner in the cafeteria for students, staff, faculty, and members of the public.
TYPICAL DUTIES:
  • Prepare main dishes, potatoes, vegetables, soups, salads, sauces, and gravies; estimate food quantities needed
  • Prepare a variety of baked goods, including pies, cakes, cobblers, cookies, breads, and pastries
  • Operate, clean, maintain, and store cafeteria equipment and utensils according to proper guidelines; report needed equipment repairs to supervisor
  • Follow established procedures and menus in food preparation; measure ingredients accurately; make appropriate adjustments as needed
  • Monitor and maintain inventory of food supplies; monitor and ensure an adequate amount of food is available for sale
  • Assist in other areas of cafeteria operation as requested; assist in serving food; count and record cash from food sales
  • Prepare food for special events and catered functions as assigned
  • Maintain working area in a safe and sanitary condition
  • Perform other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE OF:
  • Proper methods of preparing, baking, cooking, and serving food in large quantities.
  • Sanitation and safety practices and requirements
  • Operation, cleaning, and maintenance of utensils and equipment
  • Health and safety regulations, standard weights & measures
  • Record-keeping techniques

ABILITY TO:
  • Determine appropriate quantities of food to prepare for the cafeteria
  • Understand and follow instructions; prepare, bake, and cook foods in quantity
  • Operate standard machines found in school cafeterias and kitchens
  • Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others
  • Assist in taking inventory and ordering food
  • Maintain safety and sanitation standards
  • Prepare attractive, appetizing, and nutritionally balanced meals
  • Follow and adjust recipes and menus

WORKING CONDITIONS
ENVIRONMENT:
  • Cafeteria environment.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
  • Lifting moderately heavy objects.
  • Standing for extended periods of time.
  • Hearing and speaking to communicate with student workers.
  • Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate kitchen equipment and cash register.
  • Bending at the waist.
  • Carrying, pushing, or pulling trays and carts.

HAZARDS:
  • Heat from ovens, hot liquids, foods, pots, and pans.

Qualification
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Graduation from High School or GED, and one year of experience in preparing food in large quantities.
Supplemental Information
REQUIRED MATERIALS:
  1. Online District Application
  2. Resume
*Incomplete applications will not be accepted. It is the candidate's responsibility to ensure the application packet is complete. *
West Hills Community College District is an equal opportunity employer committed to nondiscrimination based on race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender status, marital status, pregnancy, age, disability, genetic information, or covered veteran's status consistent with applicable federal and state laws. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for applicants with disabilities who self-disclose.
Background Check: All of our positions require the ability to pass a background check and live scan.
Drug Testing: In accordance with the Drug-Free Environment of WHCCD, the applicant understands that if selected for employment, as part of their employment, they will be required to submit to a drug and alcohol test as part of the health examination.
Selection Process: Depending upon the number of applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, the examination process may include a qualifications screening by a committee. Those demonstrating the strongest backgrounds related to the position will be invited to interview.
West Hills Community College District offers the following to temporary employees.
Benefits offered are as follows:
  • Enrollment into Apple Retirement system
  • Sick Leave (24 hours of sick leave for the year; July through June)

Apply