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Line Prep Cook Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Prep Cook assists the Chef and Line Cooks, ensuring all ingredients are ready to be cooked. Position Functions Essential Functions • Perform routine kitchen tasks. • Follow the prep list ...

Check out our Benefits! - -benefits Line Cooks/Prep Cooks at Kura are: * Team players that go above and beyond * Committed to preparing and providing fresh, tasty, and quality food to our guests

Prep Cook

Modesto, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22/hr

Ensure prep items are always available on the cook line and restock as needed. * Prepare food items according to recipe, portion, and presentation specifications. * Maintain clean, sanitary, and ...

Prep Cook

Modesto, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22/hr

Ensure prep items are always available on the cook line and restock as needed. * Prepare food items according to recipe, portion, and presentation specifications. * Maintain clean, sanitary, and ...

Kitchen

Riverbank, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Line Cooks and Preop Cooks at Applebee's complete all assigned prep work and sets up cook's station. They maintain product presentations, product quality and cook time standards. Prepares all menu ...

Kitchen

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Line Cooks and Preop Cooks at Applebee's complete all assigned prep work and sets up cook's station. They maintain product presentations, product quality and cook time standards. Prepares all menu ...

Kitchen

Modesto, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Line Cooks and Preop Cooks at Applebee's complete all assigned prep work and sets up cook's station. They maintain product presentations, product quality and cook time standards. Prepares all menu ...

Kitchen

Atwater, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Line Cooks and Preop Cooks at Applebee's complete all assigned prep work and sets up cook's station. They maintain product presentations, product quality and cook time standards. Prepares all menu ...

Kitchen

Manteca, CA · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Line Cooks and Preop Cooks at Applebee's complete all assigned prep work and sets up cook's station. They maintain product presentations, product quality and cook time standards. Prepares all menu ...

Kitchen

Merced, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Line Cooks and Preop Cooks at Applebee's complete all assigned prep work and sets up cook's station. They maintain product presentations, product quality and cook time standards. Prepares all menu ...

Join us! The Line Cook will accurately and efficiently prepare, portion, cook, and present a ... Complete all prep items according to prep sheet. * Plate food as ordered with attention to ...

Line Cook

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Join us! The Line Cook will accurately and efficiently prepare, portion, cook, and present a ... Complete all prep items according to prep sheet. * Plate food as ordered with attention to ...

Cook

Modesto, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Prior experience as a cook, grill cook, fry cook, prep cook, line cook, chef, or restaurant crew member, team member or other BOH part time restaurant jobs is not required but preferred. We are ...

Cook

Riverbank, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Prior experience as a cook, grill cook, fry cook, prep cook, line cook, chef, or restaurant crew member, team member or other BOH part time restaurant jobs is not required but preferred. We are ...

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Line Prep Cook information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do line prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for line prep cook in Modesto, CA is $16.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a line prep cook?

Line prep cooks are kitchen professionals responsible for preparing ingredients and assembling dishes according to restaurant recipes and standards. They work on the 'line,' a station in the kitchen where food is cooked and plated before being served. Their tasks often include chopping vegetables, portioning ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring that all items are ready for the chefs and other line cooks. Line prep cooks play a crucial role in maintaining efficiency and consistency during meal service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a line prep cook?

To thrive as a Line Prep Cook, you need a solid understanding of food safety, basic cooking techniques, knife skills, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and food handling certifications, such as a ServSafe certificate, are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure consistent food quality, maintain kitchen safety standards, and support smooth kitchen operations during busy service periods.

What are some common challenges faced by line prep cooks during busy service periods?

Line prep cooks often experience high-pressure situations, especially during meal rushes when quick and accurate food preparation is crucial. Maintaining organization, multitasking effectively, and communicating clearly with the kitchen team are essential to keep up with orders and ensure food quality. Adapting to last-minute menu changes or special dietary requests can also be challenging, but these experiences help build valuable skills in time management and teamwork.

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

AspectLine Prep CookLine Cook
ResponsibilitiesPreparing ingredients, chopping, portioning, and setting up stationsCooking dishes, assembling plates, and executing menu items during service
Skills & CertificationsBasic culinary skills, food safety certifications (e.g., ServSafe)Advanced cooking skills, experience in various cooking techniques
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep area, early shifts, less pressure during serviceFront-line during service, high-pressure environment

While both roles work in the kitchen, a Line Prep Cook focuses on preparing ingredients and setting up stations, whereas a Line Cook actively cooks and plates dishes during service. The Prep Cook's role is essential for smooth operations, but the Line Cook handles the core cooking tasks. Both positions require food safety knowledge and culinary skills, but the Line Cook typically has more experience and technical cooking expertise.

Can I become a line prep cook with no experience?

Yes, many restaurants hire entry-level line prep cooks with little or no experience, as the role often provides on-the-job training. Basic skills such as knife handling, understanding food safety, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are helpful for starting in this position.

Do line prep cooks make a lot of money?

Line prep cooks typically earn an hourly wage that is close to minimum wage or slightly above, depending on experience and location. They usually earn between $10 and $15 per hour, with higher pay possible in some regions or establishments, but overall, the role is considered an entry-level position with limited earning potential compared to more advanced culinary roles.

Do line prep cooks make money?

Line prep cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and experience, with the national average ranging from minimum wage up to $15-$20 per hour. Some may receive tips or benefits, and wages can increase with skill development and tenure in the role.

Where do line prep cooks make the most money?

Line prep cooks tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living, such as major metropolitan areas or cities with a strong culinary industry. States or cities with a high demand for restaurant staff and a competitive labor market often offer increased pay rates for prep cooks. Experience, certifications, and working in upscale or high-volume establishments can also influence earning potential.

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Line Prep Cook jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Line Prep Cook job openings:

Infographic showing various Line Prep Cook job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, and 59% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,074 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Prep Cook - Perch FT

Chicken Ranch

Jamestown, CA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Prep Cook
Position Summary
As a Team Member of the Food and Beverage team, the Prep Cook is a CRCR Ambassador and takes personal ownership to ensure all of their actions are in the best interest of the business. The Prep Cook is responsible for all basic cooking tasks, such as preparing produce, soups, sauces, and proteins that will be utilized in dining outlets. The Prep Cook assists the Chef and Line Cooks, ensuring all ingredients are ready to be cooked.
Position Functions
Essential Functions
• Perform routine kitchen tasks.
• Follow the prep list created to plan duties.
• Label and stock all ingredients on shelves so they can be organized and easily accessible.
• Measure ingredients and seasonings to be used in cooking.
• Prepare cooking ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables, cutting meat, and other meal prep.
• Set up workstations and ingredients so food can be prepared according to recipes.
• Undertake basic cooking duties, such as reducing sauces and parboiling food.
• Prepare simple dishes, such as salads and entrees, while at times operating large-volume cooking equipment.
• Maintain a clean and orderly kitchen by washing dishes, sanitizing surfaces, and removing trash.
• Ensure that all food and other items are stored properly.
• Comply with nutrition and sanitation guidelines.
• Create prep lists and see it through to the very end.
• Prepare ingredients for the production line.
• Stock and maintain inventory levels for Line Cooks.
• May assist and cook on the line, wash dishes, and/or unload orders as necessary.
• Proper product rotation in all chillers to minimize wastage/spoilage.
• Maintain a high level of health and safety standards for the kitchen and workstations and regularly clean and sanitize food preparation areas, cooking surfaces, and utensils.
• Administrative tasks.
• Menu planning and ordering supplies.
• Communicate any changes or substitutions to management.
• Other duties as assigned.
Skills
• Strong listening and communication skills.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Must be able to work independently and maintain a high level of performance.
• Must be able to complete tasks in a timely and efficient manner while maintaining business standards.
• Demonstrates a flock mentality, focused on teamwork and collaboration with others.
• Provides exceptional service to internal and external Guests while leveraging the knowledge of the position and the business, ensuring a clucktastic experience for all.
• Stays engaged and motivated with the business, department, and all Team Members at all levels while encouraging growth and development of self and others.
• Builds lasting relationships by demonstrating honesty, integrity, and effective communication.
• Driven to exceed expectations while remaining accountable and fair.
• Communicates well with protected poultry flocks.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements:
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• 1+ years of cooking experience in a professional kitchen or fast casual setting.
• Must be able to obtain a Food Handler Certificate.
• Knowledge of food preparation principles, practices, and standards.
• Knowledge of basic cooking techniques and how a recipe works.
Preferred qualifications:
• 2+ years of kitchen experience.
Disclaimer
This document is for informational purposes only. A formal job description, including working conditions such as physical requirements, work environment, etc., will be provided for signature during the offer process.