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Live In Cook Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA (NOW HIRING)

Housing Matters

Cook

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$23 - $26.66/hr

We are a leader in working to end homelessness - and we want you to be part of our team! We are ... Live oak Landing, otherwise known as "The Landing", kitchen. Hours and Benefits: The ERP Cook is a ...

The Bay Club Company

Prep-Cook/ Line Cook

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Actions We Live By. It's who we are when we step into our full power. Keep It Real. Always. We need ... Be ONE united team. When we move in the same direction, there are no limits to what we can ...

The Bay Club Company

Prep Cook/Line cook

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Actions We Live By. It's who we are when we step into our full power. Keep It Real. Always. We need ... Be ONE united team. When we move in the same direction, there are no limits to what we can ...

Testarossa Winery

Line Cook

Los Gatos, CA

$24 - $27/hr

... 8pm) with live music on Thursday evenings and Sundays. Located on a charming historic patio ... Working in our mobile food facility within 107 at Testarossa Winery in Los Gatos, the day to day ...

Testarossa Winery

Line Cook

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

... 8pm) with live music on Thursday evenings and Sundays. Located on a charming historic patio ... Working in our mobile food facility within 107 at Testarossa Winery in Los Gatos, the day to day ...

Testarossa Winery

Line Cook

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

... 8pm) with live music on Thursday evenings and Sundays. Located on a charming historic patio ... Working in our mobile food facility within 107 at Testarossa Winery in Los Gatos, the day to day ...

Testarossa Winery

Line Cook

Los Gatos, CA

$24 - $27/hr

... 8pm) with live music on Thursday evenings and Sundays. Located on a charming historic patio ... Working in our mobile food facility within 107 at Testarossa Winery in Los Gatos, the day to day ...

Compass Group

COOK (FULL TIME)

Palo Alto, CA

$25/hr

The Eurest Promise, "connect with people, inspire through food, create solutions, and live our ... Prepares food in accordance with applicable federal, state and corporate standards, guidelines and ...

Compass Group

COOK (FULL TIME)

San Jose, CA

$25 - $27/hr

The Eurest Promise, "connect with people, inspire through food, create solutions, and live our ... Prepares food in accordance with applicable federal, state and corporate standards, guidelines and ...

Compass Group

GRILL COOK (FULL TIME)

Palo Alto, CA

$28/hr

The Eurest Promise, "connect with people, inspire through food, create solutions, and live our ... Serves customers in an efficient, friendly manner following established steps of service meeting ...

Compass Group

GRILL COOK (FULL TIME)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$26/hr

The Eurest Promise, "connect with people, inspire through food, create solutions, and live our ... Serves customers in an efficient, friendly manner following established steps of service meeting ...

Compass Group

PREP COOK (FULL TIME)

San Jose, CA

$25/hr

The Eurest Promise, "connect with people, inspire through food, create solutions, and live our ... Prepares food and serves customers in accordance with applicable federal, state and local standards ...

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All JobsLive In Cook JobsLive In Cook Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Live In Cook information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do live in cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for live in cook in Santa Cruz, CA is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a live in cook?

Live in cooks are culinary professionals who reside at their place of employment, typically in a private household, estate, or sometimes in institutional settings. Their main responsibility is to prepare daily meals for the household or residents, often accommodating specific dietary preferences and schedules. In addition, live in cooks may handle grocery shopping, meal planning, kitchen organization, and sometimes light housekeeping related to the kitchen. This arrangement allows for greater flexibility and availability to the employer, and often includes room and board as part of the compensation package.

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

To thrive as a Live In Cook, you need strong culinary skills, menu planning abilities, and experience in various cooking techniques, often supported by a culinary degree or relevant food safety certification. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food storage systems, and adherence to hygiene standards are typically required. Excellent time management, adaptability, and clear communication with household members are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure high-quality meal preparation, efficient kitchen operations, and harmonious living arrangements in a private household setting.

What is the difference between Live In Cook vs Live Out Cook?

AspectLive In CookLive Out Cook
Work EnvironmentResides on the employer’s property, often in private homes or estatesWorks on a daily basis at the employer’s location but commutes daily
CredentialsTypically requires culinary skills, experience, and sometimes background checksSimilar credentials, focusing on cooking skills and reliability
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in private households, luxury estates, and hospitality settingsUsed in private homes, hotels, and catering services

Live In Cooks live on the employer’s property, providing round-the-clock service, while Live Out Cooks commute daily to the job site. Both roles require culinary expertise, but the main difference lies in accommodation and work schedule flexibility.

What does a typical week look like for a live in cook in a private household?

A typical week for a Live-In Cook in a private household involves planning menus, shopping for fresh ingredients, and preparing daily meals according to the family's preferences and dietary requirements. In addition to cooking, you may be responsible for kitchen organization, inventory management, and sometimes coordinating with other household staff. Flexibility is important, as meal schedules can vary with family events or guests. Teamwork and clear communication with employers and staff help ensure smooth operations and a pleasant living environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Santa Cruz, CA? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:
What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Live In Cook jobs? Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Live In Cook job openings:
Live In Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Live In Cook job openings in Santa Cruz, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,496 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Part-Time Kitchen Help in Boulder Creek!

HeartMath

Boulder Creek, CA • On-site

$15.50 - $17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Part-Time Kitchen Help in Boulder Creek!
Be part of a company with a heartbeat!
We're a small, established company in Boulder Creek with a big heart (and even bigger flavors!). For over 25 years, we've been whipping up delicious, healthy gourmet meals for our staff, and now we're looking for a dishwasher/prep cook to join our fun-loving kitchen crew.
What HeartMath is all about:
HeartMath is on a mission to empower people to unlock their inner potential and create a more peaceful and heart-connected world. We offer a unique blend of science-backed tools and practices to help people manage stress, improve well-being, and tap into the wisdom of their own heart.
This is your chance to:
  • Increase your Culinary Knowledge: Learn valuable food prep, salad creation, and cooking skills from our experienced gourmet chef (no prior experience needed!).
  • Level Up Your Workday: This part-time role (20-25 hours/week) offers a positive, supportive environment with stunning outdoor views.
  • Refresh: Prepping fresh veggies, whipping up mouthwatering salads amp; dressings, and keeping our kitchen sparkling clean. You'll also be stocking shelves and lifting boxes.
Mission Must-Haves (Skill Requirements):
  • Must pass a physical exam before employment is final.
  • Team player with flexibility and desire to learn new skills.
  • Able to multi-task.
  • Understand and follow procedures and verbal instructions well.
  • Dependable attendance.
  • Lift up to 40lbs.
  • Must live in local area
  • Must work 5.5 hrs. on Saturday
The Perks? They're mouthwatering too!
  • Free lunches on the days you work
  • Competitive wages ($16.50-17.80/hour depending on experience)
  • Vision plan and a time-off package (including holidays, vacation, and personal days) to fuel your adventures.
Ready to ditch the ordinary and join a team that's passionate about great food and fostering a positive work environment? Apply now!
  • Join the Family: We're an equal opportunity employer who values teamwork, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. Reliable attendance and the ability to follow instructions are a must.

Apply