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Part Time Chef Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Delta Gamma

Chef

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Job Type Part-time Description The Gamma Chi chapter of Delta Gamma located in Long Beach, CA is looking for a part-time chef to work in the evenings starting in August. The position would work ...

Alliance Redwoods

Chef

Occidental, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Commis Chef Our camp and conference grounds is seeking a dependable, team-oriented Commis Chef to ... Meaningful work serving camps, retreats, and conference guests Schedule * Full-time or part-time ...

Friendly Franchisees Corp.

Private Chef

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Newport Coast Drive, CA Pay: $30-35/hr Hours: (Part-Time, Can eventually go to full-time) About the Role: We are seeking a skilled and quick-thinking Private Chef to join a busy family household in ...

The Wild Thyme Company

EVENT CHEF

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

EVENT CHEF About Us Would you like to work with a fun, food-driven family? At The Wild Thyme ... Flexible scheduling * Part-time roles with potential for full-time growth * A supportive, team ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef

San Jose, CA · On-site

$76K - $78K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for a Sous Chef position. * Location : San Jose, CA * Schedule : Monday ... Full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates: Retirement Plan ...

Marbella San Jose

Sous Chef

San Jose, CA

$28.16 - $31.69/hr

Flexible scheduling options with full-time and part-time hours * Paid time off and Holidays ... Provide supervision to dietary/kitchen team and supporting the Executive Chef * Assist in ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef

Mountain View, CA

$76K - $78K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for a Sous Chef position. * Location : Mountain View, CA * Schedule ... Full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates: Retirement Plan ...

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All JobsChef JobsPart Time Chef JobsPart Time Chef Jobs in California

Part Time Chef information

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How much do part time chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time chef in California is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $30.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much should a chef get paid per hour?

The hourly pay for a part-time chef typically ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Chefs with specialized skills or working in high-end restaurants may earn higher wages, and tips can also supplement income.

Can you work part-time as a chef?

Yes, many chefs work part-time, especially in restaurants, catering, or hospitality settings. Part-time chef positions often require flexibility in hours and may involve specific skills such as food preparation and kitchen safety certifications.

What are part time chefs?

Part time chefs are culinary professionals who work fewer hours than a standard full-time schedule, often in restaurants, catering companies, hotels, or private homes. They prepare meals, assist with menu planning, and ensure food safety and quality, but may work on specific shifts, weekends, or during peak business periods. Part time chefs can also be hired for special events or to provide private cooking services. This role offers flexibility in scheduling and can be ideal for those balancing other commitments or pursuing culinary experience without a full-time commitment.

How does working as a part-time chef typically influence your schedule and work-life balance?

As a part-time chef, your schedule often includes evenings, weekends, or holidays, depending on the establishment's peak hours. This flexibility can be beneficial for those balancing other commitments, such as education or family, but it may also require adaptability when covering shifts or accommodating last-minute changes. Effective communication with management and colleagues is key to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Many part-time chefs find that the role offers valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to develop culinary skills in a professional setting.

How to become a part-time personal chef?

To become a part-time personal chef, gain culinary skills through formal training or experience, and build a portfolio of prepared meals. Obtain relevant certifications if desired, and market your services to clients seeking personalized meal preparation, often working flexible hours in clients' homes or kitchens.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part Time Chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Chef, you need a solid background in culinary techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations, often paired with a culinary certificate or relevant experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale systems, and adherence to food hygiene standards are typically required. Strong time management, creativity, and teamwork skills set exceptional chefs apart in busy environments. These abilities ensure high-quality dishes, efficient kitchen flow, and customer satisfaction, even during limited working hours.

Is 35 too late to become a chef?

Part-time chefs can start at any age, and 35 is not too late to pursue a culinary career. Many chefs begin later in life, and relevant skills, experience, and certifications can help in transitioning into the role regardless of age.

What is the difference between Part Time Chef vs Full Time Chef?

AspectPart Time ChefFull Time Chef
Work HoursFewer hours, typically less than 30 hours/weekFull shifts, usually 40+ hours/week
CredentialsBasic culinary skills, certifications optionalSame culinary certifications, often more experience required
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, catering, events, flexible schedulingEstablished kitchens, consistent schedule
Employer UsagePart-time positions, seasonal workPermanent, full-time employment

Part Time Chefs work fewer hours and often in flexible settings, ideal for those seeking part-time employment or supplementary income. Full Time Chefs have consistent schedules and more responsibilities, suitable for those pursuing a career in professional kitchens. Both roles require culinary skills, but full-time positions may demand more experience and certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in California? The most popular types of Chef jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Part Time Chef jobs in California? For Part Time Chef jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Part Time Chef jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Part Time Chef jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Part Time Chef jobs? Cities in California with the most Part Time Chef job openings:
Part Time Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Chef job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,554 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Part Time Chef (weekends) - SUD Treatment

Way Home Detox

Rohnert Park, CA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Salary: DOE

We're interviewing now at our Rohnert Park, CA facility! Looking for an experienced Chef who has a basic knowledge of mental health and substance abuse clientele!



We are seeking to fill a part time Chef position to prepare lunch and dinner daily on the weekends.


General Summary:


We are looking for a reliable, and talented Part-Time Chef to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for preparing and serving lunch and dinner daily for our patients and staff. This is more than a cooking job you'll be a meaningful part of the recovery environment, and the meals you prepare will contribute directly to the wellbeing of people working hard to get their lives back.


Responsibilities:


  • Plan, prepare, and serve nutritious, balanced lunch and dinner meals daily for patients and staff
  • Follow weekly menus and adjust as needed based on dietary restrictions, allergies, and clinical recommendations
  • Accommodate special dietary needs including low-sugar, high-protein, soft/mechanical soft, and substance-specific nutritional protocols as directed
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and fully sanitized kitchen in compliance with health department standards
  • Monitor food inventory, assist with ordering, and minimize waste
  • Store food properly and adhere to safe food handling and temperature guidelines at all times
  • Coordinate meal timing to align with the facility's daily treatment schedule
  • Communicate proactively with clinical and nursing staff regarding patient dietary needs or concerns
  • Assist with light kitchen prep and cleaning between meals
  • Maintain kitchen equipment and report maintenance needs promptly


Qualifications:

Required

  • Food Handler's Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)
  • Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and proper storage practices
  • Ability to prepare large-batch, scratch-made meals efficiently and consistently
  • Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Compassionate, non-judgmental attitude toward individuals in recovery

Preferred

  • Experience cooking in a healthcare, residential treatment, correctional, or similar institutional setting
  • Familiarity with therapeutic or recovery-supportive nutrition
  • ServSafe Certification
  • Experience accommodating medically prescribed diets



Must be willing to work weekends and holidays if needed


Diverse individuals encouraged to apply


Equal Opportunity Employer