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Scratch Kitchen Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PF Changs

Server

Pleasanton, CA

$16.90/hr

The dine-in food and beverage Servers, Waitress or Waiters are core team members of the scratch kitchen restaurant. All Team Members must demonstrate customer service expertise by providing an ...

PF Changs

Server

Pleasanton, CA

$16.90/hr

The dine-in food and beverage Servers, Waitress or Waiters are core team members of the scratch kitchen restaurant. All Team Members must demonstrate customer service expertise by providing an ...

P.F. Chang's

Server

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

The dine-in food and beverage Servers, Waitress or Waiters are core team members of the scratch kitchen restaurant. All Team Members must demonstrate customer service expertise by providing an ...

The Arthur J

Pastry Cook

Manhattan Beach, CA

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

Experience: At least 1 year in a professional pastry or baking role, preferably within a high-volume, scratch-kitchen environment. * Standard: A disciplined professional who values organization ...

Oakmont Senior Living

Executive Chef

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Executive Chef for Full Scratch Kitchen Needed Pay Range: $80,000 to $85,000 Our Chefs are the creative force of our growth, the heart of our strength, and the key to our success. We are not looking ...

Oakmont Senior Living

Executive Chef

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$79K - $89K/yr

Executive Chef for Full Scratch Kitchen Needed Pay Range: $79,310 - 89,077 (DOE) Annually Our Chefs are the creative force of our growth, the heart of our strength, and the key to our success. We are ...

New

Neighborly Ops LLC

Kitchen Manager

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Every day, we bring together chef-driven, scratch-made food, genuine hospitality, and an environment where guests feel like they belong. Behind every great guest experience is an exceptional kitchen ...

Neighborly Ops LLC

Kitchen Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Every day, we bring together chef-driven, scratch-made food, genuine hospitality, and an environment where guests feel like they belong. Behind every great guest experience is an exceptional kitchen ...

Neighborly Ops LLC

Kitchen Manager

Studio City, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Every day, we bring together chef-driven, scratch-made food, genuine hospitality, and an environment where guests feel like they belong. Behind every great guest experience is an exceptional kitchen ...

Oakmont Senior Living

Executive Chef

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$79K - $89K/yr

Executive Chef for Full Scratch Kitchen Needed Pay Range: $79,310 - 89,077 (DOE) Annually Our Chefs are the creative force of our growth, the heart of our strength, and the key to our success. We are ...

The Arthur J

Pastry Cook

Manhattan Beach, CA

$18 - $21/hr

Experience: At least 1 year in a professional pastry or baking role, preferably within a high-volume, scratch-kitchen environment. * Standard: A disciplined professional who values organization ...

Simmzys

Prep Cook

Burbank, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

The Big Picture If you thrive on flawless food handling and preparation at the highest standard and prepares food per the exact recipe specifications always from our scratch kitchen, then this is the ...

Tin Roof Bistro

Prep Cook

Manhattan Beach, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

The Big Picture If you thrive on flawless food handling and preparation at the highest standard and prepares food per the exact recipe specifications always from our scratch kitchen, then this is the ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsScratch Kitchen JobsScratch Kitchen Jobs in California

Scratch Kitchen information

See California salary details

$39.5K

$78.3K

$127.3K

How much do scratch kitchen jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for scratch kitchen in California is $78,302.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,600.00 and $83,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scratch kitchen cook?

To thrive as a Scratch Kitchen Cook, you need strong culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and experience in preparing dishes from raw ingredients, often supported by a culinary degree or relevant kitchen experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are essential soft skills for maintaining high quality and efficiency in a fast-paced environment. These skills ensure consistent, high-quality meals, adherence to safety standards, and smooth kitchen operations.

What is a scratch kitchen?

A scratch kitchen is a restaurant or food establishment where dishes are prepared from raw, fresh ingredients rather than relying on pre-made or processed foods. Chefs in scratch kitchens make meals 'from scratch,' which often means making sauces, dressings, and even baked goods in-house. This approach is associated with higher food quality, better flavor, and more control over ingredients. Many diners prefer scratch kitchens for their emphasis on freshness, transparency, and creativity.

What are the typical challenges faced by team members working in a scratch kitchen environment?

Team members in a scratch kitchen often encounter challenges such as managing time effectively while preparing dishes from raw ingredients, maintaining consistency and quality during busy service periods, and coordinating closely with other staff to ensure smooth kitchen operations. The fast-paced environment requires adaptability and strong communication skills, as menu items are made to order and may involve complex preparation steps. Additionally, team members must stay organized and adhere to strict food safety standards to deliver the best dining experience.

What is the difference between Scratch Kitchen vs Line Cook?

AspectScratch KitchenLine Cook
CredentialsMay require culinary training or experienceTypically requires culinary skills, often with some training
Work EnvironmentKitchen focused on preparing dishes from raw ingredientsFast-paced kitchen station preparing specific menu items
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in restaurants emphasizing homemade dishesStandard role in most restaurants and food service establishments
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for kitchen roles emphasizing from-scratch cookingMore general cooking position

While both roles work in kitchens, a Scratch Kitchen focuses on preparing dishes from raw ingredients, often requiring culinary skills or training. A Line Cook typically works on specific stations within a restaurant, executing menu items efficiently. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and career goals.

What are popular job titles related to Scratch Kitchen jobs in California?

For Scratch Kitchen jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Scratch Kitchen jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Scratch Kitchen jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Scratch Kitchen jobs?

Cities in California with the most Scratch Kitchen job openings:

Scratch Kitchen jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scratch Kitchen job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $78,302 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Kitchen Manager - Dana Point

Mother's Market & Kitchen, Inc.

Dana Point, CA • On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 27 days ago

Mother's Market & Kitchen rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Kitchen Manager at Mother’s Market is responsible for overseeing daily kitchen operations while ensuring high standards of food quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. This role leads kitchen team members, supports production planning, and ensures all prepared foods align with Mother’s Market recipes, wellness standards, and operational expectations. The Kitchen Manager serves as a leader and role model, creating a positive, organized, and efficient kitchen environment. The kitchen manager is responsible for producing consistent, visually appealing, and delicious prepared foods that meet standards for freshness, quality and presentation.

Wage Range: $22-28/hour
Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, & in-store discounts
 

Key Responsibilities 
  • Oversee daily kitchen and prepared foods operations
  • Lead, train, coach, and schedule kitchen team members
  • Ensure all food is prepared according to company recipes, standards, and quality expectations
  • Maintain strict compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health regulations
  • Monitor food production levels to meet sales demand and minimize waste
  • Manage inventory, ordering, and cost control for kitchen supplies and ingredients
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment at all times
  • Collaborate with store leadership to support overall store operations
  • Prepare a variety of hot bar ready dishes including proteins, vegetables, grains, and composed entrées
  • Create and execute scratch-made sauces, gravy’s, broths, and dressings to elevate hot bar offerings
  • Follow recipes and production plans while maintaining consistent flavor, quality, and portioning
  • Set up, maintain, and refresh hot bar items to ensure peak presentation and food safety
  • Monitor food quality, temperature, and freshness throughout service
  • Collaborate with kitchen staff on menu development, seasonal specials, and daily features
  • Follow all company policies, safety procedures, and food-handling standards
  • Promote Mother’s Market values, including wellness, sustainability, and community
 
Qualifications 
  • Previous kitchen or food service management experience required
  • 2+ year’s experience as a line cook or chef in high-volume kitchen, hot bar, or catering/buffet environment, culinary education is a plus
  • Strong knowledge of sauce-making fundamentals (stocks, reductions, emulsions, gravies, plant-based sauces, etc.)
  • Ability to execute batch cooking while maintaining high culinary standards
  • Understanding of seasoning, flavor balance, and presentation
  • Experience with scratch cooking and fresh ingredients preferred
  • Knowledge of food safety regulations and safe food-handling practices
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds
  • Flexible availability, including weekends, evenings, and holidays
Desired Traits 
  • Positive, hands-on leadership style
  • Passion for healthy food, wellness, and high-quality prepared foods and hospitality
  • Speed with precision and consistency
  • Organized, dependable, and detail-oriented and production minded
  • Creative but disciplined with recipes and systems
  • Calm and effective in a fast-paced kitchen environment
  • Team-focused with strong problem-solving skills
  • Ability to maintain full, fresh visually appealing hot bar at all service times
  • Ability to create signature sauces and dishes that drive repeat customers
  • Ability to execute consistently and have minimal waste
  • Ability to maintain clean organized kitchen and have strong food safety standards
Benefits (may vary by position) 
  • Competitive pay
  • Employee discount on Mother’s Market products
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Opportunities for growth and advancement
  • Supportive, mission-driven work environment
Physical Requirements 
  • Standing, walking, bending, and repetitive motions throughout the shift
  • Lifting, carrying, and pushing up to 50 lbs.
  • Exposure to heat, cold, and kitchen equipment
Why Work at Mother’s Market? 
  • Mission-driven company focused on health, wellness, and sustainability
  • Supportive, team-oriented culture
  • Opportunities for growth and career development
  • Employee discounts on organic food and wellness products
 
Equal Opportunity Employer
Mother’s Market is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected status

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