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Prep Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Alta West Adams

Prep Cook

Los Angeles, CA

$20/hr

Alta Adams is hiring a strong Prep Cook to support our kitchen team. Alta is led by Chef-Owner Keith Corbin, serving California cuisine shaped by the American South and the influences of Los Angeles ...

Highly Likely

Prep Cook

Ojai, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

About the Prep Chef position We are seeking an experienced Prep Chef to join our company. You will be required to assist in making the preparation of food easier by following the prep list. You will ...

Highly Likely

Prep Cook

Ojai, CA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

About the Prep Chef position We are seeking an experienced Prep Chef to join our company. You will be required to assist in making the preparation of food easier by following the prep list. You will ...

Urth Payroll Services, Inc.

Prep

Laguna Beach, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Prep Cook / Kitchen Team Department: Back of House Position Summary: The Prep Cook plays a vital role in supporting kitchen operations by preparing ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring ...

Izakaya Ichie

Prep & Prep Cook

Buena Park, CA

$17 - $19/hr

Join Our Team as a Prep & Dishwasher at Izakaya Ichie! Are you looking for an opportunity to be part of a passionate team in a vibrant and welcoming environment? Izakaya Ichie, located in Buena Park ...

Highly Likely

Prep Cook

Ojai, CA

About the Prep Chef position We are seeking an experienced Prep Chef to join our company. You will be required to assist in making the preparation of food easier by following the prep list. You will ...

Original Roadhouse Grill

Prep Cook

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Training & development SUMMARY The Prep Cook prepares raw product to be used by the restaurant staff in the preparation of entrees, appetizers and side items. Reports To: Restaurant Manager SPECIFIC ...

Oakland Athletic Club

Prep Cook

Oakland, CA

$19 - $23/hr

If you're organized, efficient, and passionate about food prep, this could be the perfect role for you. What You'll Do: • Prepare ingredients by washing, chopping, slicing, and portioning according ...

Russel Fischer Partnership LP

Wash Prep

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Car Wash Prep & Finisher Pay: $17.00 - 18.00 per hour Car Wash Prep & Finisher - San Clemente, CA We're hiring Car Wash Prep & Finisher team members - same day hiring, start today! Prep role includes ...

Original Roadhouse Grill

Prep Cook

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Training & development SUMMARY The Prep Cook prepares raw product to be used by the restaurant staff in the preparation of entrees, appetizers and side items. Reports To: Restaurant Manager SPECIFIC ...

Horsefeather

Prep Cook

Palo Alto, CA

$21 - $23/hr

Join Our Team as Prep Cook - Support a Fast-Paced, Quality-Driven Kitchen About the Position Prep cooks are responsible for ensuring that ingredients are cleaned, chopped, portioned, and ready for ...

Russell Fischer Car Care

Wash Prep

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Car Wash Prep & Finisher Pay: $17.00 - 18.00 per hour Car Wash Prep & Finisher - San Clemente, CA We're hiring Car Wash Prep & Finisher team members - same day hiring, start today! Prep role includes ...

RMD Group, LLC

Prep Cook

San Diego, CA

$18 - $19/hr

Prep Cook Hourly | Full-Time | $18.00-$19.00/hr We're seeking reliable, detail-oriented Prep Cooks who support kitchen operations through efficient prep, organization, and consistency. This role is ...

RMD Group, LLC

Prep Cook

Solana Beach, CA

$18 - $19/hr

Prep Cook Hourly | Full-Time | $18.00-$19.00/hr We're seeking reliable, detail-oriented Prep Cooks who support kitchen operations through efficient prep, organization, and consistency. This role is ...

Russell Fischer Car Care

Wash Prep

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Car Wash Prep & Finisher Pay: $17.00 - 18.00 per hour Car Wash Prep & Finisher - San Clemente, CA We're hiring Car Wash Prep & Finisher team members - same day hiring, start today! Prep role includes ...

Lulu Dae's

Food Prep

Mill Valley, CA

$20 - $23/hr

Kitchen Prep/Shift Leader We're looking for someone who's already got the rhythm of a fast food operation in their bones -- and is ready to help set the tone for the whole crew. As a Kitchen Prep ...

Lulu Dae's

Food Prep

Mill Valley, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Kitchen Prep/Shift Leader We're looking for someone who's already got the rhythm of a fast food operation in their bones -- and is ready to help set the tone for the whole crew. As a Kitchen Prep ...

mendocinofarms

PREP

Berkeley, CA

$20 - $25/hr

NOW HIRING PREP! Make up to $20.00 - $25.00 / hr including tips! We're not just selling sandwiches and salads. We're selling HAPPY! Restaurant Team Members - Prep: Prepare delicious sandwiches and ...

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All JobsPrep JobsPrep Jobs in California

Prep information

See California salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do prep jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for prep in California is $14.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $15.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying vocational job?

Among vocational jobs, specialized roles such as elevator installers and repairers, power plant operators, and nuclear medicine technologists tend to have the highest median salaries. These positions often require technical training, certifications, and experience, and can offer annual wages exceeding $70,000 to $100,000 depending on location and industry.

What is the difference between Prep vs Teacher?

AspectPrepTeacher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationBachelor's degree in education or related field; state certification often required
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, tutoring centers, online platformsClassrooms, schools, educational institutions
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, tutoring companies, online education providersPublic and private schools, educational organizations
Common Search & ComparisonPrep vs Teacher

Prep roles typically involve assisting teachers or preparing students for exams, often requiring less formal education. Teachers are responsible for delivering instruction, managing classrooms, and developing curricula, usually requiring a degree and certification. While both work in educational settings, teachers have a broader scope of responsibilities and formal qualifications compared to prep roles.

Why is Gen Z struggling to get jobs?

Gen Z faces challenges in securing jobs due to high competition, limited work experience, and employers' preference for candidates with specific skills or certifications. Additionally, economic factors and changing hiring practices, such as remote work and digital applications, impact their job prospects.

Can I get a job if I am 13?

Prep jobs, such as babysitting, yard work, or delivering newspapers, often have minimum age requirements of 14 or 15 in many regions. At age 13, it is generally not legally permitted to work in most formal employment settings, but some informal or family-based tasks may be available. Employers typically require workers to be at least 14 or 15 to comply with child labor laws.

What are the typical challenges faced by Prep Cooks during busy service hours, and how can they effectively manage them?

Prep Cooks often encounter high-pressure situations during peak meal times, where maintaining speed and accuracy is essential. Common challenges include keeping up with a fast-paced workflow, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and maintaining a clean and organized workstation under time constraints. To succeed, Prep Cooks benefit from strong time management skills, clear communication with kitchen staff, and a proactive approach to replenishing ingredients and supplies. Staying organized and prioritizing tasks are key strategies to handle the demands of the role effectively.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $4,000 a week without a degree often include roles such as commercial truck drivers, sales managers, real estate brokers, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers. These positions typically require specialized training, certifications, or experience, and may involve long hours or physically demanding work.

What are Prep workers?

Prep workers, also known as food preparation workers, are responsible for preparing ingredients and assisting chefs or cooks in the kitchen. Their duties typically include washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, maintaining cleanliness in work areas, and helping with basic cooking tasks. Prep workers play a crucial role in ensuring that meals are prepared efficiently and safely by keeping the kitchen organized and ready for service.

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

To thrive as a Prep Cook, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and recipe management systems are commonly required. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and smooth workflow in a busy restaurant environment.
What cities in California are hiring for Prep jobs? Cities in California with the most Prep job openings:
Prep jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prep job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 67% Physical, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,375 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Prep Cook

Alta West Adams

Los Angeles, CA

$20/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Alta Adams is hiring a strong Prep Cook to support our kitchen team.

Alta is led by Chef-Owner Keith Corbin, serving California cuisine shaped by the American South and the influences of Los Angeles through migration, memory, and fire. Our food depends on careful prep, clean execution, proper organization, and consistency every day.

This role is for someone who takes prep seriously. The right candidate understands that great service starts before the first ticket comes in.

We are looking for a Prep Cook who can:

  • Follow recipes exactly and consistently
  • Work clean, fast, and organized
  • Handle high-volume prep with discipline
  • Properly wash, cut, portion, label, date, and store ingredients
  • Understand basic cooking techniques, knife work, seasoning, and mise en place
  • Communicate clearly with the Sous Chef and Chef
  • Take ownership of prep lists and complete them on time
  • Maintain high standards without needing constant supervision
Responsibilities
  • Complete daily prep lists accurately and efficiently
  • Prepare vegetables, sauces, stocks, marinades, dressings, grains, proteins, and other mise en place
  • Follow Alta’s recipes, portion sizes, and quality standards
  • Maintain proper labeling, dating, storage, and rotation
  • Keep prep areas clean, organized, and food-safe
  • Set up cooks and service stations for success
  • Communicate shortages, waste, quality issues, or product concerns
  • Assist with receiving, storing, and organizing deliveries
  • Follow all health department, sanitation, and food safety standards
  • Support the line team when needed
Required Experience
  • Prior prep cook experience required
  • Experience in a chef-driven restaurant strongly preferred
  • Strong knife skills required
  • Ability to follow detailed recipes and prep lists
  • Strong understanding of kitchen organization and food safety
  • Ability to work independently and stay focused
  • Must be reliable, punctual, and professional
Physical Requirements:
  • Stand and walk for extended periods
  • Lift and carry up to 50 pounds
  • Bend, reach, twist, and move quickly in a kitchen environment
  • Work around heat, steam, sharp tools, and kitchen equipment
  • Safely use knives, slicers, mixers, blenders, and other prep equipment
Ideal Candidate

The ideal Prep Cook is strong, steady, clean, and dependable. They do not cut corners. They understand that accurate prep protects the food, the line cooks, the service, and the guest experience.

This person should be able to walk in, read a prep list, move with purpose, and help the kitchen stay ready, organized, and consistent every day.

More detail about Alta West Adams part of Alta Adams Restaurant , please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/283913-Alta-West-Adams-