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Prison Kitchen Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SUNSHINE CAFE

Cook

Delano, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

North Kern State Prison (Delano) & Kern Valley State Prison (Delano) Minimum Experienced (1) years in Kitchen Prep and Cooking LOOKING FOR POSITIVE ATTITUDE PERSON Starting $16.00 to $17.00 We love ...

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Prison Kitchen information

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$19

How much do prison kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for prison kitchen in the United States is $15.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prison kitchen?

Prison kitchen jobs involve preparing, cooking, and serving meals to inmates and staff within a correctional facility. These roles often include tasks such as food preparation, cleaning kitchen areas, following strict safety and sanitation guidelines, and sometimes assisting with inventory or menu planning. Inmates assigned to kitchen jobs can gain valuable skills, work experience, and sometimes earn small incentives. Working in the prison kitchen also helps the facility run efficiently and ensures that all dietary needs are met. These jobs are typically supervised by correctional staff to maintain order and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prison kitchen worker?

To thrive as a Prison Kitchen Worker, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and sometimes a food handler's permit or certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and sanitation protocols is typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and the ability to follow strict procedures are crucial soft skills in this environment. These skills ensure safe, efficient meal service and help maintain order and security within the correctional facility.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in a prison kitchen?

Working in a prison kitchen often involves unique challenges, such as maintaining strict security protocols while preparing and serving meals. Staff must carefully account for all kitchen tools and ingredients, ensure food safety standards are met, and manage time-sensitive meal schedules for large groups. Additionally, there is close collaboration with correctional officers and, in some cases, supervision of inmate workers, requiring strong communication and conflict resolution skills. Adapting to a highly regulated environment and adhering to institutional guidelines are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Prison Kitchen vs Prison Cook?

AspectPrison KitchenPrison Cook
CredentialsFood handler’s permit, basic culinary skillsFood handler’s permit, culinary training preferred
Work EnvironmentLarge institutional kitchen within prison facilityPreparing meals for inmates in prison kitchen
Employer & IndustryPrison system, correctional facilitiesPrison system, correctional facilities
Job RoleOversees meal preparation, manages kitchen staffPrepares meals, assists in kitchen operations

Prison Kitchen refers to the overall facility managing meal services within a correctional institution, while a Prison Cook is an individual responsible for preparing and cooking meals. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but the Prison Kitchen encompasses the entire operation, whereas the Prison Cook focuses on food preparation tasks.

How much do prison kitchen workers make?

Prison kitchen workers typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on the facility and location. They often require food service skills and may work early morning or evening shifts in a correctional environment.
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What states have the most Prison Kitchen jobs?

States with the most job openings for Prison Kitchen jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Prison Kitchen jobs look for?

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Prison Kitchen jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prison Kitchen job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,047 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Kitchen Worker

Chaparral, NM • On-site

Management and Training Corporation
5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Management and Training Corporationexternal

$17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Pay:  $17.75per hour 


Work schedule: Full-time

Benefit package includes:

  • Health/dental/vision/prescription insurance
  • Life insurance, AD&D as well as short-term disability
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Sick and vacation time
  • Paid holidays
  • Employee assistance program
  • Career advancement opportunities

Work with a purpose! Management & Training Corporation (MTC) operates the Otero County Prison in Chaparral, New Mexico. We provide a safe and secure working environment for our staff while helping those in our custody prepare for success upon release.

Position Summary: 

Reports to the assistant food service supervisor. Responsible for maintaining a clean, safe and sanitary kitchen area, to include food preparation areas, tools and equipment, and assisting in the service and preparation of facility meals based on pre-planned menus, in compliance with MTC and customer directives.

Essential functions:

  1. Clean and sanitize all food preparation equipment and ensure that it is kept safe and operable condition. 
  2. Maintain kitchen equipment in orderly workable condition. Ensure the work area is safe, clean and sanitary at all times. 
  3. Ensure the count and control of knives and other controlled kitchen tools. Provide an accurate count of all control items at the beginning and end of each shift. 
  4. Assist the cooks and food service supervisor by preparing and serving meals as required. 
  5. Ensure scullery is always clean. 
  6. Assist in sculling all kitchen utensils. 
  7. Mop, scrub, refinish and spot clean kitchen floors.

Education and Experience Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • six (6) months of food service or related experience preferred. 
  • Must possess a valid food handler's permit in the State of New Mexico or the State of Texas. 
  • Valid driver's license in the State of Texas or New Mexico with an acceptable driving record required unless waived by management.

Why:Make a real difference every day by helping to change lives.  

Management & Training Corporation (MTC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, disabled status, veteran status, genetic information, national origin, or any other category protected by federal law. MTC participates in E-Verify. We strive to provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, including disabled veterans, in our job application and hiring process. If you are interested in employment opportunities with Management & Training Corporation and need assistance, please contact our staffing department through customersupport@mtctrains.com or 801-693-2888.

Learn more about Management & Training Corporation here

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