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Tamale Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tucson Tamale Company

Production Prep Cook

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Position Summary The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and following recipes to support daily food production. This includes measuring, weighing, and mixing ingredients accurately ...

Tucson Tamale Company

Production Prep Cook

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Position Summary The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and following recipes to support daily food production. This includes measuring, weighing, and mixing ingredients accurately ...

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How much do tamale jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for tamale in the United States is $16.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges someone working as a Tamale Maker might encounter, and how can they be addressed?

As a Tamale Maker, common challenges include managing large batch preparation while maintaining consistency in flavor and texture, ensuring food safety standards are met, and working efficiently during high-demand periods. These challenges can be addressed by following standardized recipes, implementing organized prep stations, and collaborating closely with kitchen staff to streamline the assembly process. Continuous practice and attention to detail also help in refining technique and ensuring high-quality results.

What are tamale makers?

Tamale makers are individuals who specialize in preparing tamales, a traditional Mesoamerican dish made of masa (corn dough) filled with meats, cheeses, or other ingredients, and steamed in corn husks or banana leaves. These professionals may work in restaurants, food stalls, or catering businesses, and are skilled in mixing masa, seasoning fillings, assembling tamales, and cooking them to perfection. Their expertise ensures that tamales are flavorful, moist, and properly cooked, preserving the authenticity of this beloved dish.

What is the difference between Tamale vs Pastry Chef?

AspectTamalePastry Chef
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or culinary training, sometimes certifications in traditional cookingFormal culinary education, pastry-specific certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, food stalls, or street food settingsBakery, restaurant pastry sections, or catering events
Industry UsageFood industry, traditional cuisine, street foodBakery, fine dining, dessert shops
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Tamale and Pastry Chef roles involve culinary skills, Tamale focuses on traditional food preparation often in street food or casual settings, requiring basic culinary training. Pastry Chefs specialize in baked goods and desserts, usually with formal culinary education and work in bakeries or upscale restaurants. The key difference lies in their cuisine focus and work environment.

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

To thrive as a Tamale maker, you need culinary skills in traditional tamale preparation, an understanding of food safety, and often experience working in a commercial kitchen. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, safe food handling certifications, and recipe management systems are valuable. Attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure consistent product quality, efficiency, and adherence to health standards in a busy food production environment.
More about Tamale jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Tamale jobs? The most popular types of Tamale jobs are:
What states have the most Tamale jobs? States with the most job openings for Tamale jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tamale jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tamale jobs are:
Tamale jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tamale job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,999 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Production Prep Cook

Production Prep Cook

Tucson Tamale Company

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and following recipes to support daily food production. This includes measuring, weighing, and mixing ingredients accurately, maintaining detailed records, and operating equipment safely. The Prep Cook plays a vital role in ensuring all food items meet Tucson Foods' quality, consistency, and food safety standards before moving into the next stage of production.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Accurately follow recipes, formulas, and batch instructions for food preparation
  • Weigh, measure, and mix ingredients according to production needs
  • Record ingredient usage and maintain accurate documentation for HACCP and traceability
  • Operate or assist with food production equipment as needed
  • Maintain proper storage and rotation of ingredients (FIFO)
  • Keep prep areas clean, organized, and compliant with sanitation standards
  • Report any inconsistencies, issues, or concerns with recipes, ingredients, or equipment to the Production Supervisor
  • Assist with kitchen and equipment cleaning as scheduled or assigned
  • Support other team members and contribute to a smooth production flow
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management

Qualifications

Required:

  • Minimum 2 years of experience in food manufacturing, high-volume kitchen, or similar environment
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in measuring and recording
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions consistently
  • Basic math and reading comprehension skills
  • Ability to work independently and manage time efficiently
  • Familiarity with food safety and sanitation practices
  • Willingness to operate or learn to operate kitchen and production equipment

Preferred:

  • Previous experience with HACCP protocols and documentation
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs frequently
  • Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and stoop for extended periods
  • Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands and wrists
  • Comfortable working near moving machinery and in a busy production environment

Work Environment

This position is based in a commercial food production facility with exposure to hot and cold environments, machinery, and frequent movement. Attention to safety and cleanliness is essential in this fast-paced setting.

Compensation and Benefits

  • Competitive hourly wage
  • Paid time off
  • Health and dental insurance (for eligible employees)
  • Quarterly Bonus Program
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program (if applicable)

Equal Opportunity Statement

Tucson Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.