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Prep Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PrepThe Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and completing daily prep tasks that ensure smooth kitchen operations and consistent food quality.Core Responsibilities * Arrive on time to ...

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 ...

Prep Cook

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Paid time off As a Prep Cook , you will be responsible for a strict adherence to recipe standards. The Prep Cook is committed to safe food handling, cleanliness, safety, and sanitation standards ...

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and completing daily prep tasks that ensure smooth kitchen operations and consistent food quality.Core Responsibilities * Arrive on time to your ...

Prep Cook

San Diego, CA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Prep Cook Why This Job is Amazing: * Flexible Schedule : Enjoy working 32 weeks during the school term with 20 weeks off when school is closed, or choose to work with our corporate training team and ...

Prep Cook

Seal Beach, CA

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Description Prep Cook - High Volume Seafood Restaurant Join our dynamic culinary team at a bustling seafood restaurant known for its fresh, high-quality dishes and vibrant atmosphere. We are seeking ...

Prep Cook

Corte Madera, CA

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

RH is seeking a driven Prep Cook to contribute to the culinary excellence for which RH is known. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, values precision and efficiency, and takes ...

Prep Cook

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Prep Cook - High Volume Seafood Restaurant Join our dynamic culinary team at a bustling seafood restaurant known for its fresh, high-quality dishes and vibrant atmosphere. We are seeking a dedicated ...

Prep Cook

Corte Madera, CA · On-site

$17 - $26/hr

RH is seeking a driven Prep Cook to contribute to the culinary excellence for which RH is known. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, values precision and efficiency, and takes ...

Prep Cook

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Prep Cook - High Volume Seafood Restaurant Join our dynamic culinary team at a bustling seafood restaurant known for its fresh, high-quality dishes and vibrant atmosphere. We are seeking a dedicated ...

Prep Cook

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

RH is seeking a driven Prep Cook to contribute to the culinary excellence for which RH is known. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, values precision and efficiency, and takes ...

Prep Cook

Newport Beach, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

RH is seeking a driven Prep Cook to contribute to the culinary excellence for which RH is known. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, values precision and efficiency, and takes ...

Prep Cook

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

RH is seeking a driven Prep Cook to contribute to the culinary excellence for which RH is known. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, values precision and efficiency, and takes ...

Prep Cook

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$17 - $26/hr

RH is seeking a driven Prep Cook to contribute to the culinary excellence for which RH is known. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, values precision and efficiency, and takes ...

Prep Cook

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$17 - $26/hr

RH is seeking a driven Prep Cook to contribute to the culinary excellence for which RH is known. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, values precision and efficiency, and takes ...

Prep Cook

Corte Madera, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

RH is seeking a driven Prep Cook to contribute to the culinary excellence for which RH is known. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, values precision and efficiency, and takes ...

Prep Cook

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

RH is seeking a driven Prep Cook to contribute to the culinary excellence for which RH is known. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, values precision and efficiency, and takes ...

A Prep Cook, or Preparatory Cook, is responsible for providing a supportive role to kitchen staff in the preparation of meals and ingredients. Their duties include organizing and labeling food items ...

Lulu Dae's - Kitchen Prep Location: Strawberry Village, Marin County, CA Employment Type: Full-Time (Hourly + Tips) Pay: $20-$23/hr About the Role We're looking for a true kitchen workhorse ...

Showing results 21-40

Prep information

See California salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do prep jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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 a prep?

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 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 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.

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

The most popular types of Prep jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Prep jobs?

Cities in California with the most Prep job openings:

Infographic showing various Prep job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 67% Physical, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,375 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

General Prep

Soup 'n Fresh

Chino Hills, CA

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

PrepThe Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and completing daily prep tasks that ensure smooth kitchen operations and consistent food quality.Core Responsibilities
  • Arrive on time to your scheduled shift
  • Follow all food safety guidelines & safe zone temperature requirements
  • Follow all knife handling safety training requirements
  • Follow all the safety cleaning & sanitation requirements
  • Respect the equipment used in food preparation processes
  • Utilize all PPE provided (hot pads, eye protection, cut gloves, heat gloves, etc.)
  • Use wet floor warning signs when floor is slippery
  • Follow all uniform & apron policies throughout your shift
  • Assist with vendor receiving when directed by your Team Lead or Kitchen Manager
  • Immediately report any missing or low ingredients needed to complete an assigned recipe
  • Assure measuring accuracy when preparing ingredients & recipes
  • Understand ingredient quality standards and review materials for variations
  • Accurately and clearly fill out all assigned paperwork and turn in daily
  • Assure all prepared products are labeled with date, time, and preparer's initials — no exceptions
  • Utilize “Use First” Jolt stickers as necessary
  • Follow FIFO and proper product rotation procedures to avoid waste
  • Set aside unsatisfactory or unusual materials and notify Team Lead or Kitchen Manager
  • Maintain proper food storage standards for dry, wet, and allergen products
  • Accurately record all waste for each shift and turn in tracking sheet daily
  • Help out in other areas of the restaurant as assigned
  • Work together as a team to assure quality for our Guests
  • Promote a safe and productive work environment
Prep-Specific Duties
  • Follow detailed prep guides and daily batch lists to complete required tasks
  • Use proper portioning tools and scaling equipment to ensure ingredient accuracy
  • Maintain a clean and organized prep station at all times
  • Monitor prep par levels and notify Team Lead when items fall below threshold
  • Label all prep containers clearly, including “Use First” and allergen warnings when needed
  • Report equipment malfunctions (slicers, blenders, etc.) immediately
  • Maintain attention to detail when cutting, slicing, and portioning
  • Multitask effectively under kitchen pressure
  • Maintain clear handwriting and communication for all labels and logs

Soup 'n Fresh is bringing a fresh new dining experience to Rancho Cucamonga, Chino Hills and hopefully more!
We're looking for friendly and dedicated team members to help us create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for our guests. We specialize in customizable meals, featuring a variety of fresh salads, comforting soups, and other delicious options.