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

El Pollo Loco

Cook

Stockton, 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 ...

El Pollo Loco

Cook

Los Banos, 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 ...

Dave & Buster's, Inc.

Line Cook

Modesto, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $19.25/hr

The line cook position is responsible for creating an exceptional culinary experience for our ... Controls costs by following prep sheets as designed to ensure the freshest product is served and ...

Dave & Buster's

Line Cook

Modesto, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $19.25/hr

The line cook position is responsible for creating an exceptional culinary experience for our ... Controls costs by following prep sheets as designed to ensure the freshest product is served and ...

Outback Steakhouse / Matilda Management

Cook

Modesto, CA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

We have line cook positions in Salad, Fry, Dessert, Saute, Grill and Make Up along with Kitchen Prep Cooks. * Responsible for maintaining equipment and the cleanliness of your surroundings. * Working ...

Elite Devco, LLC

Black Bear Diner- Cook

Turlock, CA

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Stock and maintain sufficient levels of food products at line stations to assure a smooth service ... Handle, store and rotate all products properly. Assist in food prep assignments during off-peak ...

Texas Roadhouse

Line Cook - Broil/Grill

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20.50/hr

Understanding equipment and prep sheets * Exhibiting teamwork If you think you would be a legendary Broil Cook, apply today! At Texas Roadhouse, our Roadies are the heart and soul of our company. We ...

Texas Roadhouse

Line Cook - Broil/Grill

Tracy, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20.50/hr

Understanding equipment and prep sheets * Exhibiting teamwork If you think you would be a legendary Broil Cook, apply today! At Texas Roadhouse, our Roadies are the heart and soul of our company. We ...

Texas Roadhouse

Line Cook - Broil/Grill

Turlock, CA

$16.90 - $20.50/hr

Understanding equipment and prep sheets * Exhibiting teamwork If you think you would be a legendary Broil Cook, apply today! At Texas Roadhouse, our Roadies are the heart and soul of our company. We ...

Elite Devco, LLC

Black Bear Diner- Cook

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

... line stations to assure a smooth service period. • Portion food products prior to cooking ... prep assignments during off-peak periods as needed. • Complete side work for station and shift ...

TravelCenters of America

Popeyes Cook - PT

Livingston, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Perform prep cook tasks such as washing, chopping, and sorting ingredients. * Perform grill cook tasks, such as setting up broiler, fryer and grill stations according to the line check sheets.

Applebee's

Kitchen

Turlock, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $19/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 ...

Applebee's

Kitchen

Riverbank, CA

$14.50 - $18.75/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 ...

Applebee's

Kitchen

Merced, CA

$13.50 - $17.50/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 ...

Applebee's

Kitchen

Manteca, CA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/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 ...

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All JobsLine Prep Cook JobsLine Prep Cook Jobs in Modesto, CA

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:

Line Prep Cook jobs near you
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.

Cook

El Pollo Loco

Stockton, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Your path begins here at El Pollo Loco

Start on your path towards a brighter future filled with growth and opportunity. Where we lift each other up, push each other further, and take part in something bigger than ourselves - supported by a team committed to you and your success.


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 looking for Full Time and Part Time Team Members.


Responsibilities/Duties:

* Follows company food handling and safety procedures.

* Follows projections through the shift to maintain proper food product levels at expected quality.

* Follows cold and hot preparation recipes according to standards, and inspects all ingredients.

* Maintains dishes clean throughout the shift following manual warewashing standards.

* Provides support to peers such as restocking packed products in coolers for cashiers, packaging cold     prepped items, and other tasks assigned.

* Maintains a clean and sanitized work area, including equipment, tools and storage areas.

* Assists in training new Food Preparation personnel.

* Performs additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.


Physical Requirements:

* Ability to move 50lbs, with assistance is required

* Ability to lift, pull, toss 40lbs trash bags

* Must have a high level of mobility/flexibility

* Ability to reach, bend, stoop, scrub, lift and wipe.

* Exposure to heat, cold, smoke and odor.

* Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time. 

* Must be able to work under stress/pressure during peak periods.


Qualification Standards:

* CA Food Handler Certificate is required

* Must be 18 years of age or older

* Must be able to read company recipes cards in either English or Spanish

* Must have a basic understanding of how to follow a recipe. 


It started with a mother’s recipe and one man’s desire for a quality chicken dinner after a hard day’s work. Over 40 years later, we still grill our chicken the same way, citrus marinated and grilled low and slow over an open flame. In that time, we’ve fed families, connected cultures and have become a Southern California institution.