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Kitchen Prep Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Katella Deli

Kitchen Prep Cook

Los Alamitos, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

The Kitchen Prep Cook is responsible for preparing high-quality food according to recipe ... Follow proper food safety and sanitation procedures to ensure guest safety. * Assist cooks and ...

Katella Deli

Kitchen Prep Cook

Los Alamitos, CA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

The Kitchen Prep Cook is responsible for preparing high-quality food according to recipe ... Follow proper food safety and sanitation procedures to ensure guest safety. * Assist cooks and ...

Katella Deli

Kitchen Prep Cook

Los Alamitos, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Description The Kitchen Prep Cook is responsible for preparing high-quality food according to ... Follow proper food safety and sanitation procedures to ensure guest safety. * Assist cooks and ...

Western Assemblies Home Inc

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Meal Prep Assistant

Claremont, CA · On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

  • Retirement

Non-profit retirement home is hiring a Meal prep assistant -Must be able to work weekends, holidays ... Duties include setting tables, cleaning dining room, kitchen cleaning duties, assisting morning ...

Western Assemblies Home Inc

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Meal Prep Assistant

Claremont, CA · On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

  • Retirement

Non-profit retirement home is hiring a Meal prep assistant -Must be able to work weekends, holidays ... Duties include setting tables, cleaning dining room, kitchen cleaning duties, assisting morning ...

Da Vien Coffee

Kitchen Prep

Arcadia, CA · On-site

$17.40 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Our kitchen team dedicates their time to the kitchen area, ensuring the delightful and consistently ... This position requires the ability to move quickly between tasks, assist multiple customers at once ...

Da Vien Coffee

Kitchen Prep

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$17.40 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Our kitchen team dedicates their time to the kitchen area, ensuring the delightful and consistently ... This position requires the ability to move quickly between tasks, assist multiple customers at once ...

Da Vien Coffee

Kitchen Prep

Stanton, CA · On-site

$17.40 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Our kitchen team dedicates their time to the kitchen area, ensuring the delightful and consistently ... This position requires the ability to move quickly between tasks, assist multiple customers at once ...

Da Vien Coffee

Kitchen Prep

Gardena, CA · On-site

$17.40 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Our kitchen team dedicates their time to the kitchen area, ensuring the delightful and consistently ... This position requires the ability to move quickly between tasks, assist multiple customers at once ...

Da Vien Coffee

Kitchen Prep

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$17.40 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Our kitchen team dedicates their time to the kitchen area, ensuring the delightful and consistently ... This position requires the ability to move quickly between tasks, assist multiple customers at once ...

The Brooklyn Pizza Company

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Prep Cook / Pizza Dough & Sauce Specialist

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Kitchen Utility & Support: Fill in on general prep tasks, assist station cooks during pre-rush periods, and help maintain prep inventory levels. * Sanitation & FIFO: Maintain a clean, sanitized prep ...

New

Horsefeather

Lead Prep Cook

Palo Alto, CA

$20 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Monitor and maintain prep station cleanliness, and general kitchen sanitation. * Communicate prep shortages or overages to management in real time. * Assist with receiving and organizing deliveries ...

Saisamorn Boonthae

Kitchen Prep Person

Irvine, CA · On-site

$16/hr

We are looking for a Prep Cook in Irvine CA Should be able to do prep fruit, veggies and meat for ... Be able to assist the chef and other team members in what ever we need. Would like to have good ...

Bluenami

Kitchen Prep Cook

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

... May assist with product ordering & maintaining inventory when necessary • Other duties as ... kitchen equipment, including stoves, grills, refrigeration, slicer, knives, and warmers • ...

Blue Nami Group

Kitchen Prep Cook

Orangevale, CA

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

... assist with product ordering & maintaining inventory when necessary Other duties as requested by ... major kitchen equipment, including stoves, grills, refrigeration, slicer, knives, and warmers ...

Blue Nami Group

Kitchen Prep Cook

Sacramento, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

... assist with product ordering & maintaining inventory when necessary Other duties as requested by ... major kitchen equipment, including stoves, grills, refrigeration, slicer, knives, and warmers ...

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Kitchen Prep Assistant information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kitchen prep assistant?

To thrive as a Kitchen Prep Assistant, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen hygiene, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, proper knife handling, and food safety certifications (such as ServSafe) are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure food is prepared safely and consistently, supporting the overall efficiency and quality of the kitchen operation.

What is the difference between Kitchen Prep Assistant vs Line Cook?

AspectKitchen Prep AssistantLine Cook
ResponsibilitiesAssists with basic food prep, ingredient organization, and cleaningPrepares and cooks menu items during service
CredentialsMinimal certifications, food safety knowledge preferredFood handler permits, culinary training often required
Work EnvironmentKitchen support roles, less fast-pacedHigh-pressure, fast-paced during service
Industry UsageCommon entry-level support role in restaurantsCore cooking position in kitchens

While both roles work in restaurant kitchens, the Kitchen Prep Assistant focuses on supporting food prep and organization, whereas the Line Cook actively prepares dishes during service. The roles differ mainly in responsibility level and pace, with the Prep Assistant serving as a foundational support role.

What are some common challenges faced by kitchen prep assistants, and how can they be managed?

Kitchen Prep Assistants often work in fast-paced environments where time management and multitasking are essential. One common challenge is maintaining efficiency while ensuring food safety and cleanliness standards. To manage these pressures, it's important to stay organized, communicate effectively with chefs and other kitchen staff, and consistently follow proper food handling procedures. Adapting to varying workloads and being proactive about preparing ingredients can also help minimize stress during peak hours.

What is a kitchen prep assistant?

Kitchen Prep Assistants are entry-level professionals who support chefs and cooks by preparing ingredients and maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment. Their duties typically include washing and chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, portioning food, and ensuring that cooking stations are stocked and ready for service. They also help with basic cooking tasks and are responsible for keeping work areas sanitary to comply with food safety standards. This role is essential for the smooth operation of a restaurant or food service kitchen.

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

The most popular types of Kitchen Prep jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Kitchen Prep Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Kitchen Prep Assistant job openings:

Kitchen Prep Assistant jobs near you

Kitchen Prep - Dana Point

Mother's Market & Kitchen, Inc.

Dana Point, CA • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 25 days ago

Mother's Market & Kitchen rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Kitchen Prep team member at Mother's Market supports daily kitchen operations by preparing ingredients and assisting with food production according to company recipes and quality standards. This role plays an important part in maintaining food safety, consistency, and efficiency while contributing to a clean, organized, and wellness-focused kitchen environment.
Wage Range: $18-$22/hour
Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, & in-store discounts
Key Responsibilities
  • Prepare ingredients by washing, chopping, slicing, and portioning according to recipes
  • Support food production for hot bar, deli, and prepared foods areas
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of prep areas, tools, and equipment
  • Follow proper food safety, sanitation, and handling procedures at all times
  • Label, date, and store prepared items accurately
  • Assist with inventory rotation and waste reduction
  • Support kitchen team members as needed during peak production times
  • Follow all company policies, safety procedures, and food-handling standards
  • Promote Mother's Market values, including wellness, sustainability, and community
  • Work collaboratively with kitchen and store teams
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Previous food prep or kitchen experience a plus, but not required
  • Knowledge of basic food safety practices preferred
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds
  • Flexible availability, including weekends, evenings, and holidays
Desired Traits
  • Reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn
  • Passion for healthy food and quality ingredients
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced kitchen environment
  • Strong team player
Benefits (may vary by position)
  • Competitive pay
  • Employee discount on Mother's Market products
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Opportunities for growth and advancement
  • Supportive, mission-driven work environment
Physical Requirements
  • Standing, walking, bending, and repetitive motions throughout the shift
  • Lifting, carrying, and pushing up to 50 lbs.
  • Exposure to heat, cold, and kitchen equipment
Why Work at Mother's Market?
  • Mission-driven company focused on health, wellness, and sustainability
  • Supportive, team-oriented culture
  • Opportunities for growth and career development
  • Employee discounts on organic food and wellness products
Equal Opportunity Employer
Mother's Market is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected status.
Employment Type: FTR - Regular Full-Time

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