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School Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Rising Star Preschool

School Cook

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Pay: We offer our School Cook a competitive wage of $21 per hour.Benefits:Education assistanceEmployee assistance program (EAP)Paid time off (PTO)Flexible scheduleGrowth opportunitiesMentor ...

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How much do school cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for school cook in California is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a school cook?

School cooks are food service professionals responsible for preparing and serving meals to students and staff within educational institutions. They follow specific recipes, ensure adherence to nutrition guidelines, and maintain food safety standards. School cooks may also help plan menus, manage inventory, and accommodate special dietary needs. Their role is essential in providing healthy, balanced meals that support students' learning and well-being.

What does a school cook do?

As a school cook, you prepare and serve food for students in a cafeteria. You typically cook lunch in a kitchen every day, but you may also prepare meals for breakfast and provide additional snacks after school or for school events. Your duties include ensuring that you and other cafeteria workers observe food safety and sanitation practices. Other responsibilities involve obtaining and storing ingredients, ensuring that equipment functions properly, and ordering additional supplies as needed. You also plan the menu for foodservice in advance. Schools may require you to continue your education in safe kitchen and food prep practices while employed.

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

To thrive as a School Cook, you need strong knowledge of nutrition, food preparation, and food safety, typically supported by a high school diploma and food handler certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, menu planning software, and inventory management systems is often required. Attention to detail, organization, and the ability to work efficiently as part of a team are essential soft skills. These skills ensure safe, nutritious, and timely meal service to large groups of students while maintaining compliance with health regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by a school cook, and how can they be effectively managed?

School Cooks often face challenges such as preparing large quantities of nutritious meals within tight timeframes and adhering to strict dietary guidelines and food safety regulations. Managing food allergies and accommodating special dietary needs among students can also be demanding. Effective organization, clear communication with staff, and staying updated on food safety protocols are key to overcoming these challenges. Collaborating closely with school nutritionists and kitchen team members helps ensure smooth meal service and a positive dining experience for students.

What is the difference between School Cook vs Cafeteria Worker?

AspectSchool CookCafeteria Worker
CredentialsFood safety certification, culinary skillsFood safety certification, basic food handling
Work EnvironmentKitchen, food prep areasServing lines, dining areas
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational institutionsSchools, cafeterias, food service providers
Job FocusPreparing and cooking mealsServing food, assisting with meal distribution

School Cooks primarily prepare and cook meals in school kitchens, requiring culinary skills and food safety certifications. Cafeteria Workers focus on serving food and assisting with meal distribution in dining areas. While both roles work within school food service environments, School Cooks handle cooking responsibilities, whereas Cafeteria Workers support meal service and customer interaction.

What do school cooks get paid?

School cooks typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and school district. Salaries can vary based on factors such as certifications, responsibilities, and whether they work full-time or part-time in a school environment.
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School Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various School Cook job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,098 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

School Cook

San Diego, CA • On-site

Rising Star Preschool
See more jobs at Rising Star Preschoolexternal

$21/hr

Full-time, Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Are you a passionate cook who finds joy in preparing meals that nourish and comfort? Rising Star Preschool in San Diego, CA is seeking a dedicated School Cook to join us full-time or part-time. If you're excited by the idea of making a meaningful impact through the food you create, apply today!Pay: We offer our School Cook a competitive wage of $21 per hour.Benefits:Education assistanceEmployee assistance program (EAP)Paid time off (PTO)Flexible scheduleGrowth opportunitiesMentor/apprentice programABOUT THIS ROLEThis position offers full-time or part-time work, Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 5 PM.As our School Cook, you'll begin your day planning and preparing wholesome, age‑appropriate meals that brighten children's routines. You'll manage dietary needs with care, maintain a spotless, compliant kitchen, monitor inventory, and ensure every ingredient is fresh and ready to use. From organizing supplies to documenting meals and ensuring compliance with licensing standards, you'll create a kitchen that runs smoothly.OUR COMPANYAs a nonprofit serving San Diego's underserved communities, our mission goes beyond providing safe, nurturing care and quality early education for children ages 0-5-we also connect families with vital social services, mental health support, and job training opportunities in early childhood education. Our team is empowered, collaborative, and united by a passion for making a real difference in the lives of children and families. Here, your voice matters, and your professional growth is a top priority! We offer ongoing training and enrichment, helping you earn the credentials you need to advance your career. If you're looking for a supportive, team-oriented workplace where you can have fun, grow, and genuinely impact your community, join us!WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR IN A SCHOOL COOKYou might be perfect for this full-time or part-time culinary position if you can meet the following qualifications:Food Handler certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)Knowledge of safe food preparation, hygiene, and sanitation practicesExperience in childcare or school kitchens, familiarity with child nutrition programs such as CACFP, culinary training, experience managing allergies or special diets, and strong organizational skills are preferred.Don't miss your chance to join a team that truly appreciates your work. Apply today and start building the next chapter in your culinary career! Our initial application process is quick, easy, and mobile-friendly.Must have the ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening.