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Lead Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ASM Global

Lead Cook

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$25.80/hr

Lead Cook The Role: The Lead Cook position will report to the Executive Chef and will be responsible for coordinating the day-to-day operations of the Concessions and Premium kitchens.

Aramark

Lead Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

The Lead Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food using standard recipes and production guidelines while following food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual in ...

Luna Grill

Lead Cook

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$20.50/hr

Luna Grill, a fast casual/QSR concept, is looking for LEAD COOKS to bring our menu to life, maintain high food quality standards, and keep the kitchen running efficiently. This is a great opportunity ...

Aramark

Lead Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

The Lead Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food using standard recipes and production guidelines while following food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual in ...

Meridian at Anaheim Hills

Lead Cook

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

We're looking for a Lead Cook with experience in a Senior living community to join our Culinary department! As a Cook, you will play a pivotal role in creating a delightful culinary experience for ...

lunagrill

Lead Cook

San Diego, CA

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Luna Grill, a fast casual/QSR concept, is looking for LEAD COOKS to bring our menu to life, maintain high food quality standards, and keep the kitchen running efficiently. This is a great opportunity ...

Communal Cafe

Lead Cook

Nevada City, CA

$20 - $22/hr

Lead the Culinary Charge as Head Cook/BOH Manager at Communal Cafe! Are you a seasoned culinary professional with a passion for creating exceptional food and leading a dynamic team? Communal Cafe ...

Discovery Land Company

Market Lead Cook

La Quinta, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

The Market Lead Cook is responsible for preparing and executing high-quality food items in a Luxury Private Club market or food service environment. This role ensures food quality, consistency ...

Kitchens for Good

Lead Cook - YTC

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Lead Cook REPORTS TO : Food Service Manager FLSA STATUS : Non-Exempt COMPENSATION : $25.00-$27.00 LOCATION: Youth Transition Campus (YTC) San Diego, CA Who we are: Kitchens for Good transforms lives ...

New

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Milpitas, CA

$7.25 - $25.79/hr

Lead Cook Location: Manufacturing Company - 48902001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Lead Cook Location: BRITISH AIRWAYS LOUNGE - SFO - 30193001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours, and rotating weekends. More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$25.79/hr

Lead Cook Location: Manufacturing Company - 48902001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment ...

Kitchens for Good

Lead Cook - YTC

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Lead Cook REPORTS TO : Food Service Manager FLSA STATUS : Non-Exempt COMPENSATION : $25.00-$27.00 LOCATION: Youth Transition Campus (YTC) San Diego, CA Who we are: Kitchens for Good transforms lives ...

New

Pacific Hospitality Group

Lead Cook

Napa, CA · On-site

$29/hr

Previous lead cook or supervisory experience preferred * Experience working in multi-outlet or resort environments is strongly preferred * Strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Rosemead, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Lead Cook Location: EDISON INTERNATIONAL UPA, ROSEMEAD - 65122001 Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process.

Sodexo

Lead Cook

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$7.25 - $30.22/hr

Lead Cook Location: Nourish - 79488001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Orange, CA · On-site

$20 - $25.79/hr

Lead Cook Location: CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY - 52404002 Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Lead Cook Location: AMERICAN EXPRESS LOUNGE - LAX - 48897011 Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process.

New

SodexoMagic

Lead Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Lead Cook Location: AMERICAN EXPRESS LOUNGE - LAX - 48897011 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process.

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Foster City, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.79/hr

Lead Cook Location: GILEAD SCIENCES HQ, FOSTER CITY - 95945001 Workdays/shifts : Weekdays - morning shifts. More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type: Full-time Pay ...

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All JobsLead Cook JobsLead Cook Jobs in California

Lead Cook information

See California salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do lead cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead cook in California is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead cook?

A lead cook is the head of the kitchen who oversees restaurant operations and the other cooks. As a lead cook, you work closely with restaurant managers, cooks, and front of house staff to coordinate food preparation and ensure the operations of the dining facility are running smoothly. Depending on the work environment, you may create menu dishes, order food supplies and equipment, review food and beverage purchases, and train other cooks. You typically need to gain several years of experience working as a line cook before beginning a career as a lead cook. Educational requirements vary, but professional training through vocational programs, culinary institutes, and degree programs may offer a competitive edge. Additional qualifications include excellent knowledge of cuisine, communication and organizational skills, and the ability to lead and manage others.

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

To thrive as a Lead Cook, you need strong culinary skills, experience with food preparation, kitchen management, and often a culinary degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food safety systems, and inventory management software is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and the ability to work under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, consistent food quality, and a positive team environment in fast-paced settings.

How does a lead cook typically collaborate with kitchen staff and management to ensure smooth kitchen operations?

A Lead Cook plays a central role in coordinating kitchen activities by communicating clearly with line cooks, prep staff, and servers to ensure that dishes are prepared correctly and timely. They work closely with management to implement menu changes, manage inventory, and uphold food safety standards. Effective collaboration involves training team members, delegating tasks based on skill level, and addressing any issues that arise during service. This teamwork not only keeps the kitchen running efficiently but also fosters a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Lead Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectLead CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training often preferred
Work EnvironmentKitchen leadership, supervising staff, managing kitchen operationsPreparing dishes on the line, following recipes, working under supervision
ResponsibilitiesOversees kitchen staff, ensures quality, manages inventoryPrepares specific dishes, maintains station, follows head chef instructions

The main difference between a Lead Cook and a Line Cook is that the Lead Cook has supervisory responsibilities and oversees kitchen operations, while the Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes at their station. Lead Cooks often have more experience and may be responsible for training staff, whereas Line Cooks execute specific tasks within the kitchen. Both roles require culinary skills, but the Lead Cook's role includes leadership and management duties.

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What job categories do people searching Lead Cook jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Cook jobs in California are:

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Cities in California with the most Lead Cook job openings:

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Lead Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Cook job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,455 per year, or $19 per hour.

Lead Cook

ASM Global

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$25.80/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago

ASM Global rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

146th of 260 rated facilities management

Job description

Lead Cook

The Role:

The Lead Cook position will report to the Executive Chef and will be responsible for coordinating the day-to-day operations of the Concessions and Premium kitchens.

Responsibilities:

  • Set up and prepare all food items; opening and closing duties; replenishment and rotation of stock as directed by the Executive Chef.
  • Set up of non-food items for shift; high level of sanitation awareness and conscientiousness; professional, safe, and efficient manner.
  • Inputting daily event sheets and daily reports.
  • Production of menu items in a timely manner and in accordance with company standards.
  • Ability to follow directions precisely and consistently; maintenance of work area and proper food storage; opening and closing duties.
  • Adheres to company guidelines and house rules, always exceeds guest expectations.
  • Work as a team with fellow associates and other service departments within the arena.

Qualifications:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Professional training through a culinary education or working in a fast-paced, high-volume fine dining restaurant/catering facility; full-service casual dining preferred.
  • Ability to interact with co-workers.
  • Extensive knowledge of food and beverage menu, specials, and services offered.
  • Ability to assure compliance with company service standards, company inventory and cash control procedures.
  • Basic knowledge of food and beverage preparations, service standards, guest relations and etiquette.
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced, team orientated setting.
  • Ability to read, speak, and write in English.
  • Ability to lift and transport food and other items weighing up to 30 pounds, occasionally 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work all Venue events, including extended hours, nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Mobility to perform assigned production tasks, including constant reaching, bending, stooping, wiping, pushing, and pulling for extended periods of time.
  • Must have two (2) to three (3) years working in a fast-paced, high-end club or restaurant.

Follow and encourage your team to follow all safety policies and procedures, including but not limited to looking for and reporting any unsafe work conditions, and complete company-wide safety training and any additional job-specific safety training.


Report all safety incidents (injuries and illnesses) into the company's risk management system (Origami Risk) on the same day that the safety incident has been reported to you.

Compensation:

Starting rate: $25.80 per hour

Legends is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or genetic information.

What ASM Global employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

ASM Global logo

About ASM Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ASM Global was formed in October 2019 from the merger of AEG Facilities, the global innovator in live entertainment venues, and SMG, the gold standard in event management. ASM Global is a venue management powerhouse that spans five continents, 14 countries and more than 300 of the world's most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention and exhibit centers, and performing arts venues. As the world's most trusted venue manager, ASM Global provides venue strategy and management, sales, marketing, event booking and programming, construction and design consulting, and pre-opening services. Among the venues in our portfolio are landmark facilities such as McCormick Place & Soldier Field in Chicago, the Los Angeles Convention Center, Tele2 Arena in Stockholm, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Conference Centre in Shenzhen, China and Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place & DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids, Michigan. ASM Global also offers food and beverage operations through its concessions and catering companies.

Industry

Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2019

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