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

Kitchen

Modesto, 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 ...

Kitchen

Atwater, CA · On-site

$14 - $18/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 ...

Tracy - Cook

Tracy, CA · On-site

$20/hr

We'll provide the training you need to feel confident working at any station - fry, cashier, prep ... Responsible for setup and sanitation of the stations on the line * Maintain clean food preparation ...

We'll provide the training you need to feel confident working at any station - fry, cashier, prep ... Responsible for setup and sanitation of the stations on the line * Maintain clean food preparation ...

Cook

Modesto, CA

$16.90 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while ...

Cook

Modesto, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while ...

Cook

Modesto, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while ...

Cook

Modesto, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while ...

Cook

Modesto, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while ...

Cook - The Brass Tap

Modesto, CA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Our kitchen team members are responsible for prepping, cooking and plating The Brass Tap's menu ... Ability to read tickets, recipes, prep sheets, spec charts in English * Able to competently operate ...

Restaurant Team Member

Modesto, CA · On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

... Hot Cooks, Line, Local Store Marketing Coordinator, Host/Cashier, Prep Person, ProStart Intern, Meat Cutter, Utility Person, and Servers. Opportunities may vary based on location. If a current ...

Showing results 41-53

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.

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Applebee's rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 741 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 88 rated restaurants


Job description

What does it mean to be part of the neighborhood?At one of the largest casual dining concepts in the world, we build connections in our community by bringing energy, excitement, and fun to our "Make it Right, Serve it Fast" promise in the restaurant.We are proud to serve our neighbors with the craveable food and beverages they love. Every day is unique when creating authentic guest experiences that range from Ladies Night Out to Sunday Family Dinner.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 items according to Applebee's recipes, plate presentations and specifications.


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