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Seasonal Cooking Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$80K/yr

Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, seafood preparation, and seasonal cooking * Understanding of food cost, labor management, and kitchen operations * Ability to work efficiently under pressure ...

Sous Chef

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$80K/yr

Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, seafood preparation, and seasonal cooking * Understanding of food cost, labor management, and kitchen operations * Ability to work efficiently under pressure ...

Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, seafood preparation, and seasonal cooking * Understanding of food cost, labor management, and kitchen operations * Ability to work efficiently under pressure ...

Cook 2

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$25/hr

We are currently looking for seasonal cooks for the summer and PM cooks. Duties and Responsibilities * Be self-motivated in making sure that all food products are fresh, and well-cooked as requested.

Cook 2

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$25/hr

We are currently looking for seasonal cooks for the summer and PM cooks. Duties and Responsibilities * Be self-motivated in making sure that all food products are fresh, and well-cooked as requested.

... cooking and plating food items in Eataly's exciting, high-volume, open kitchens. Reports to the ... This is a seasonal position with an initial commitment of at least three (3) months. Upon ...

PREP COOK (SEASONAL)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Seasonal; Days and hours may vary. More details upon interview. * Requirement ... Previous prep cooking experience is preferred. * Pay Range: $18.00 per hour to $18.75 per hour.

Showing results 21-40

Seasonal Cooking information

See California salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do seasonal cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for seasonal cooking in California is $16.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is seasonal cooking?

Seasonal cooking is the practice of preparing meals using ingredients that are currently in season and locally available. This approach emphasizes freshness, flavor, and nutrition, as fruits and vegetables are typically harvested at their peak. Seasonal cooking often supports local farmers and reduces the environmental impact associated with transporting out-of-season produce. It encourages creativity in the kitchen, as menus and recipes change throughout the year to reflect what's available. Many people find that seasonal cooking leads to tastier and more satisfying meals.

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

To thrive as a Seasonal Cook, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and experience in fast-paced kitchen environments, often supported by a food handler’s permit or relevant culinary training. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and seasonal menu planning tools is typically required. Adaptability, teamwork, and time management are standout soft skills for handling fluctuating workloads and diverse teams. These skills are important to ensure high-quality meals, food safety, and smooth kitchen operations during busy seasonal periods.

What are some typical challenges faced in a seasonal cooking position, and how can I prepare for them?

In a seasonal cooking role, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to fluctuating demand, learning new menus quickly, and working in fast-paced environments with changing teams. It's important to be flexible and able to pick up new recipes or procedures efficiently. Building strong communication with your colleagues helps maintain smooth kitchen operations, especially during peak periods. Preparing by familiarizing yourself with seasonal ingredients and practicing time management will set you up for success in this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Seasonal Cooking vs Line Cook?

AspectSeasonal CookingLine Cook
CredentialsCooking certifications, culinary degrees often preferredCooking certifications, culinary degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, catering, seasonal food eventsRestaurants, hotels, food service establishments
Industry UsageFocuses on seasonal ingredients and menusPrepares dishes on a daily basis in a fast-paced kitchen
Search & ComparisonOften compared for culinary specialization and seasonal menusCompared for kitchen roles and daily food prep

Seasonal Cooking involves preparing dishes based on seasonal ingredients and menus, often emphasizing freshness and variety throughout the year. Line Cooks focus on executing daily menu items in a fast-paced kitchen environment. While both roles require culinary skills and certifications, Seasonal Cooking emphasizes adaptability to seasonal ingredients, whereas Line Cooks concentrate on consistent daily food preparation.

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

The most popular types of Cooking jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Seasonal Cooking jobs in California?

For Seasonal Cooking jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Seasonal Cooking jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Seasonal Cooking jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Seasonal Cooking jobs?

Cities in California with the most Seasonal Cooking job openings:

Infographic showing various Seasonal Cooking job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,539 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Seasonal Full-Time Cook 2 - (Intermediate) | Thompson Palm Springs Resort

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Palm Springs, CA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Hyatt Hotels rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 256 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 109 rated hotels


Job description

Lola Rose Grand Mezze is now recruiting for a Seasonal Full-Time Cook 2 (Intermediate) to join the hotel's culinary team.
Tucked above the buzz of Downtown, on the second floor of Thompson Palm Springs Resort, Lola Rose Grand Mezze is more than just a restaurant-it's a journey. One that begins the moment you step into our sunlit lounge with mid-century modern aesthetics, flows through our social bar, and unfolds into an intimate dining experience where every shareable dish invites connection.
Since opening in 2024, Thompson Palm Springs has quickly established itself as the desert's most coveted lifestyle resort in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. Showcasing iconic mid-century modern design, bungalow-inspired accommodations, iconic dining, and vibrant social experiences, the resort has become a sought-after destination for discerning travelers, luxury weddings, milestone celebrations, brand activations, corporate retreats, and high-profile events.
The resort features Lola Rose, a bold Eastern Mediterranean dining experience inspired by the spice markets of Istanbul and the seasonal bounty of California, alongside Bar Issi, an elevated coastal Italian concept that blends relaxed luxury with coastal culinary sophistication. Two expansive pool experiences, immersive mountain views, the HALL Napa Valley Tasting Room, and over 35,000 square feet of dynamic indoor and outdoor event venues provide endless opportunities for unforgettable gatherings.
Thompson Palm Springs was recently recognized among Condé Nast Traveler's Top 10 Best New Hotels in the World (2026) and ranked the #1 Hotel in Southern California in the Condé Nast Readers' Choice Awards (2025).
The Seasonal Cook 2 (Intermediate) prepares and cooks menu items according to established recipes and quality standards while maintaining food safety, cleanliness, and efficient kitchen operations. This role independently manages assigned stations, supports the culinary team, and helps deliver an exceptional guest experience.
Responsibilities Include
  • Prepare and cook food according to recipes, presentation standards, and production schedules.
  • Maintain assigned station, ensuring quality, consistency, and timely service.
  • Follow food safety and sanitation
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
  • Minimize waste and properly store, label, and rotate food products.
  • Work collaboratively with the culinary team
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

This is a temporary position anticipated to continue through Memorial Day 2027. The assignment may end earlier or be extended based on business needs and does not create a guarantee of employment for any specific duration.
This is a nonexempt (hourly) role. The budgeted rate for this role is $22.00 to $24.00. This is the hourly rate for this position that Thompson Palm Springs reasonably expects to pay. Decisions regarding individual hourly rates will be based on a number of factors including experience, and education.
Why work for Thompson Palm Springs?
• 401k Retirement Savings Plan & Company Match
• Continued learning & development
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Paid Holidays
• Complimentary Colleague Meals
• Free & Discounted Hotel Rooms at Hyatt Hotels around the World!
Our Values: Empathy | Integrity | Respect | Inclusion | Experimentation | Wellbeing
  • Minimum 2 years of professional culinary experience or equivalent.
  • Knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen sanitation.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Riverside County Food Handler Card in accordance with county requirements.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining quality and consistency.
  • Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods

What Hyatt Hotels employees say

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Hyatt logo

About Hyatt

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Hyatt, we believe in the power of belonging and creating a culture of care, where our colleagues become family. Since 1957, our colleagues and our guests have been at the heart of our business and helped Hyatt become one of the best, and fastest-growing hospitality brands in the world. Our transformative growth and the addition of new hotels, brands, and business lines can open the door for exciting career and growth opportunities for our colleagues. As we continue to grow, we never lose sight of what's most important: People. We turn trips into journeys, encounters into experiences, and jobs into careers.

Industry

Hospitality services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1957