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Prep Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chicharronero (PT)

Valencia, CA · On-site

$19.86 - $22.55/hr

Prior cooking or prep helper experience helpful. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Basic understanding of English language. * Team-oriented, respectful, and reliable attitude.

Chicharronero PT

Palmdale, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Prior cooking or prep helper experience helpful. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Basic understanding of English language. * Team-oriented, respectful, and reliable attitude.

Chicharronero PT

Valencia, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Prior cooking or prep helper experience helpful. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Basic understanding of English language. * Team-oriented, respectful, and reliable attitude.

Chicharronero FT

Burbank, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Prior cooking or prep helper experience helpful. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Basic understanding of English language. * Team-oriented, respectful, and reliable attitude.

Chicharronero FT

Burbank, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Prior cooking or prep helper experience helpful. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Basic understanding of English language. * Team-oriented, respectful, and reliable attitude.

Chicharronero PT

Downey, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Prior cooking or prep helper experience helpful. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Basic understanding of English language. * Team-oriented, respectful, and reliable attitude.

Chicharronero

North Hollywood, CA · On-site

$19.86 - $22.55/hr

Prior cooking or prep helper experience helpful. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Basic understanding of English language. * Team-oriented, respectful, and reliable attitude.

Chicharronero PT

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Prior cooking or prep helper experience helpful. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Basic understanding of English language. * Team-oriented, respectful, and reliable attitude.

Chicharronero

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$18.86 - $22.55/hr

Prior cooking or prep helper experience helpful. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Basic understanding of English language. * Team-oriented, respectful, and reliable attitude.

JOB SUMMARY The Prep Cook/ Sushi Helper supports our sushi chefs by preparing ingredients, maintaining a clean and organized work area, and assisting in the creation of high-quality sushi dishes. The ...

Chicharronero PT

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Some experience as a restaurant cooks or prep helper. * Basic understanding of English language. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Respectful, professional, and team-oriented ...

Taquero PT

Modesto, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Prior experience as a cook or prep helper preferred. * Basic understanding of English language. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Team-oriented, respectful, and professional ...

Taquero PT

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Prior experience as a cook or prep helper preferred. * Basic understanding of English language. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Team-oriented, respectful, and professional ...

Taquero PT

Modesto, CA

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Prior experience as a cook or prep helper preferred. * Basic understanding of English language. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Team-oriented, respectful, and professional ...

Taquero PT

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Prior experience as a cook or prep helper preferred. * Basic understanding of English language. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Team-oriented, respectful, and professional ...

Taquero PT

Modesto, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Prior experience as a cook or prep helper preferred. * Basic understanding of English language. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Team-oriented, respectful, and professional ...

Taquero (PT)

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Prior experience as a cook or prep helper preferred. * Basic understanding of English language. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Team-oriented, respectful, and professional ...

Chicharronero PT

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Some experience as a restaurant cooks or prep helper. * Basic understanding of English language. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Respectful, professional, and team-oriented ...

Taquero PT

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Prior experience as a cook or prep helper preferred. * Basic understanding of English language. * Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment. * Team-oriented, respectful, and professional ...

Showing results 41-60

Prep Helper information

What are the typical daily tasks and team interactions for a prep helper in a commercial kitchen?

As a Prep Helper, your daily tasks often include washing and chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, and assisting chefs with basic food preparation. You'll usually work closely with line cooks and kitchen staff to ensure ingredients are ready for meal service, and may also help with maintaining kitchen cleanliness. Teamwork is essential, as you'll need to coordinate timing and workflow to keep the kitchen running efficiently. Communication skills and the ability to follow instructions are key to succeeding in this fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Prep Helper vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectPrep HelperKitchen Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary knowledgeHigh school diploma or equivalent; some culinary experience beneficial
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, catering events, food prep areasCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering services
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, catering companies, food service providersRestaurants, hotels, catering companies
Common Search & ComparisonPrep Helper vs Kitchen Assistant

Prep Helpers and Kitchen Assistants often perform similar roles in food preparation and support. While both roles require basic culinary skills and work in similar environments, Prep Helpers typically focus on basic food prep tasks, whereas Kitchen Assistants may have broader responsibilities including cleaning and equipment maintenance. The roles are often interchangeable depending on the employer's needs, but understanding these distinctions can help job seekers target the right position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prep helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prep Helper, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food handling certifications (such as a food handler’s permit), and inventory systems are often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure food is prepared safely and efficiently, supporting smooth kitchen operations and high-quality meal service.

What is a prep helper?

Prep helpers, also known as kitchen assistants or food preparation workers, assist chefs and cooks by performing basic tasks in the kitchen. Their duties typically include washing and chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, organizing supplies, and maintaining cleanliness in the work area. Prep helpers play a crucial role in ensuring that the kitchen runs efficiently by preparing ingredients ahead of time and supporting the cooking staff as needed.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prep jobs in California?

The most popular types of Prep jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Prep Helper jobs in California?

For Prep Helper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prep Helper jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Prep Helper jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Prep Helper jobs?

Cities in California with the most Prep Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Prep Helper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, and 29% Remote job distribution.

Chicharronero (PT)

Vallarta Supermarkets

Valencia, CA • On-site

$19.86 - $22.55/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Vallarta Supermarkets rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 122 rated grocery stores


Job description

PAYSCALE: $19.86 - $22.55
Join the Vallarta Supermarkets Family!
At Vallarta Supermarkets, we’re more than just a grocery store, we’re a vibrant part of the communities we serve. We’re seeking friendly, service-oriented individuals who take pride in delivering extraordinary customer experiences and thrive in a fast-paced, festive environment. If you’re passionate about fresh, quality baked goods and love making people smile, we’d love to meet you!
About the Role:
The Chicharronero prepares and cooks chicharrones, carnitas, and other authentic Mexican dishes following Vallarta’s standards for consistency, quality, and safety. This role supports cooking with gathering and prepping ingredients, maintains a clean and safe work area, and provides excellent customer service while working in a team-focused environment.
What You’ll Do:
  • Prepare and cook chicharrones, carnitas, and other authentic Mexican foods to company standards.
  • Assist in gathering and preparing ingredients and meats for cooking.
  • Provide outstanding, prompt, and courteous service to customers.
  • Communicate with management regarding supply and ingredient needs.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization in all prep, cooking, and work areas.
  • Follow food safety, sanitation, and dress code standards.
  • Operate tools and equipment safely, report equipment issues promptly.
  • Treat coworkers and customers with respect at all times.
  • Support department operations by assisting coworkers and completing assigned tasks.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Physical Requirements:
  • Stand and walk constantly (6–8+ hours/day).
  • Frequently bend, squat, twist, and reach above/below shoulders.
  • Frequent use of hands for grasping, pulling, pushing, and fine manipulation.
  • Lift and carry up to 25 lbs. frequently, up to 50 lbs. occasionally, and up to 75 lbs. when handling pork bellies.
  • Heaviest item: pork bellies, 65–75 lbs.; carried 3–5 feet.
  • Work in hot environments with temperature and humidity changes.
  • No driving, heavy machinery, or work at heights required.

What We’re Looking For:
  • Knowledge of preparing authentic Mexican cuisine.
  • Familiarity with equipment and tools used in food preparation.
  • Prior cooking or prep helper experience helpful.
  • Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment.
  • Basic understanding of English language.
  • Team-oriented, respectful, and reliable attitude.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Work Environment:
  • Fast-paced Taquería setting with direct customer interaction.
  • Exposure to hot temperatures, perishable products, and cooking equipment.
  • Team-focused environment.
  • Must be able to speak, read, write, and understand English.

Benefits:
Full-Time Team Members:
  • Health medical plan: $25/week, plus free dental & vision.
  • Free $25,000 Basic Life and AD&D Insurance.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan.
  • Paid vacation.
  • Access to legal services.
Part-Time & Full-Time Benefits:
  • Paid sick time.
  • Premium pay for holidays.
  • Scholarship opportunities.
  • Savings marketplace & credit union membership.
  • Recognition programs (birthdays, years of service, spirit days, etc.).

At Vallarta Supermarkets, we believe our culture drives execution. If you’re hardworking, detail-oriented, and passionate about authentic foods, we invite you to apply today to join our team as a Chicharronero!

Explore Exciting Job Opportunities:
We offer positions to match your lifestyle and career goals. Whether you’re seeking part-time or full-time, Vallarta Supermarkets provides a dynamic and rewarding workplace with?real opportunities for growth.


What Vallarta Supermarkets employees say

Pay

Benefits

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Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Vallarta Supermarkets logo

About Vallarta Supermarkets

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

For more than 35 years, Vallarta Supermarkets has been bringing families together over fresh and authentic food. When you enter Vallarta, you know right away that it’s about more than food shopping — it’s about celebrating. Celebrating the food, culture, colors, and vibrant energy of Mexico and Latin America. Vallarta offers a feast for ALL your senses. You can smell the sweet aromas from the bakery, hear the rhythms of the music playing, and different languages spoken all around you.

Industry

Supermarkets and grocery stores

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1985

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