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Temp Chef Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Evolve Treatment Centers

Chef Temp

Tarzana, CA · On-site

$31 - $33/hr

Evolve Treatment Centers is looking for a Temp Chef to join our dedicated team at two of our beautiful 6-bed adolescent residential treatment centers in Tarzana, CA . This is more than just a ...

Evolve Treatment Centers

Chef Temp

Tarzana, CA · On-site

$31 - $33/hr

Evolve Treatment Centers is looking for a Temp Chef to join our dedicated team at two of our beautiful 6-bed adolescent residential treatment centers in Tarzana, CA . This is more than just a ...

Bon Appetit

SOUS CHEF (TEMPORARY)

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$52K - $71K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for a temporary SOUS CHEF position. * Location : Soka University - 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Temporary;

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF (TEMPORARY)

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$52K - $71K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for a temporary SOUS CHEF position. * Location : Soka University - 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Temporary;

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF (TEMPORARY)

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$53K - $72K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for a temporary SOUS CHEF position. * Location : Soka University - 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Temporary;

Atelier Crenn

Sous Chef

San Francisco, CA

$70K - $80K/yr

Lead BOH pre-shift meetings and participating in line, temp and cooler checks and food tastings for the shift * Partner with CDC and/or designated managers/chefs to regularly review and maintain ...

Crenn Dining Group

Sous Chef

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$70 - $80/hr

Lead BOH pre-shift meetings and participating in line, temp and cooler checks and food tastings for the shift * Partner with CDC and/or designated managers/chefs to regularly review and maintain ...

Crenn Dining Group

Sous Chef

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Lead BOH pre-shift meetings and participating in line, temp and cooler checks and food tastings for the shift * Partner with CDC and/or designated managers/chefs to regularly review and maintain ...

José Andrés Group

Executive Sous Chef

Culver City, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Executive Sous Chef Reports To: Chef de Cuisine / Executive Chef Department: Back of House ... seasoning, temps, texture, and plating. Uphold and refine standardized recipes/SOPs; maintain ...

MEZZE CULVER CITY LLC

Executive Sous Chef

Culver City, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Executive Sous Chef Reports To: Chef de Cuisine / Executive Chef Department: Back of House ... seasoning, temps, texture, and plating. Uphold and refine standardized recipes/SOPs; maintain ...

Jose Andres Group

Executive Sous Chef

Culver City, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Executive Sous Chef Reports To: Chef de Cuisine / Executive Chef Department: Back of House ... seasoning, temps, texture, and plating. Uphold and refine standardized recipes/SOPs; maintain ...

AEG

Pastry Chef

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

The Pastry Chef will coordinate with the Executive Sous Chef as well as the Executive Chef in ... to address temporary shortages and immediate meets. * Craft various deserts from fondant icing ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$52K - $71K/yr

Temporary; Days and hours may vary. Weekend availability is required. More details upon interview ... Helps Executive Chef prepare and cook foods. Coordinates activities of cooks and other food-service ...

Lawry's

Executive Sous Chef

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$80K/yr

The ideal Executive Sous Chef is someone who believes in core values, upholding policy and ... To include, line checks, temp logs, receiving logs, self-audit/walk-throughs. Follows up with ...

Lawry's

Executive Sous Chef

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$80K/yr

The ideal Executive Sous Chef is someone who believes in core values, upholding policy and ... To include, line checks, temp logs, receiving logs, self-audit/walk-throughs. Follows up with ...

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Temp Chef information

See California salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do temp chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for temp chef in California is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $30.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temp chef?

Temp chefs, also known as temporary chefs, are culinary professionals who are hired on a short-term or contract basis to work in restaurants, hotels, catering companies, or private households. They may cover staff shortages, seasonal demand, special events, or provide expertise for a specific period. Temp chefs can have various specialties and skill levels, and their assignments can last from a single day to several months. Their flexibility allows businesses to maintain high standards and consistent service during busy periods or when permanent staff are unavailable.

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

To thrive as a Temp Chef, you need solid culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and experience in a variety of kitchen settings, often supported by a culinary certificate or relevant work history. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and tools like inventory management systems is typically required. Strong adaptability, time management, and clear communication help you quickly integrate into new teams and work efficiently under pressure. These skills and qualities ensure you can deliver high-quality food and maintain kitchen standards in diverse, fast-changing environments.

What are some common challenges temp chefs face when adapting to new kitchens and teams?

Temp Chefs often need to quickly acclimate to unfamiliar kitchens, equipment, and team dynamics. This can involve learning new menus, understanding different food safety protocols, and building rapport with permanent staff—sometimes all within a single shift. Flexibility, strong communication skills, and a willingness to ask questions are essential for success. Embracing these challenges helps Temp Chefs deliver high-quality results and maintain a positive reputation for future assignments.

What is the difference between Temp Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectTemp ChefLine Cook
CredentialsCooking experience, culinary certifications (optional)Cooking experience, culinary certifications (optional)
Work EnvironmentTemporary assignments in various kitchensFull-time or part-time in a specific kitchen
Employer UsageStaffing agencies, event catering, hotelsRestaurants, hotels, catering services
Search & ComparisonOften compared for temporary vs permanent rolesCommonly compared for kitchen roles

Temp Chefs and Line Cooks both require culinary skills and experience, but Temp Chefs work on temporary assignments across different kitchens, offering flexibility and variety. Line Cooks typically work full-time in a single establishment, focusing on consistent kitchen operations. The choice depends on whether you prefer temporary, diverse work or a stable, ongoing position in a specific kitchen environment.

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

The most popular types of Chef jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Temp Chef jobs in California?

For Temp Chef jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Temp Chef jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Temp Chef jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Temp Chef jobs?

Cities in California with the most Temp Chef job openings:

Temp Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temp Chef job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,554 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Chef Temp

Evolve Treatment Centers

Tarzana, CA • On-site

$31 - $33/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Evolve Treatment Centers is looking for a Temp Chef to join our dedicated team at two of our beautiful 6-bed adolescent residential treatment centers in Tarzana, CA. This is more than just a culinary role-it's a chance to make a real and meaningful difference in the lives of teens on their healing journeys.About Evolve:
At Evolve, our name says it all-we are committed to growth and change, not just for our clients but for our team, too. We serve adolescents struggling with mental health, substance use, and behavioral issues in a safe, supportive, and structured environment.About the Role:
As our Residential Chef, you will be responsible for:
  • Prepare, plate and serve nutritious, balanced meals (lunch, dinner and 2 snacks) for residents and staff daily
  • Creating weekly menus that support both physical and emotional wellness.
  • Maintaining a clean, organized kitchen that meets all health and safety standards.
  • Ordering supplies and managing inventory within budget.
  • Supporting the therapeutic environment through warm, consistent care.
Ideal Candidate:
  • Has experience working with teens or in behavioral health settings (preferred but not required).
  • Is passionate about food as a tool for healing and connection.
  • Demonstrates excellent time management, organization, and communication skills.
  • Can remain calm under pressure, take initiative, and maintain professional boundaries at all times.
  • Is a team player who thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
Requirements:
  • Experience as a chef or cook in a residential, school, or health care setting.
  • ServSafe or equivalent food safety certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
  • Ability to pass background check and TB/Drug/Physical test.
  • Reliable transportation and availability for a set weekly schedule.
Why Evolve?
  • Purpose-driven work with meaningful impact
  • Supportive, team-based culture
  • Ongoing training and development
  • Competitive compensation and benefits. Payrate: $31-33/hour
  • Hours: Monday - Friday 10 - 6:30 pm
Join Us!
If you're ready to combine your passion for food with your desire to support adolescent mental health, we'd love to meet you.
Apply today and help teens Evolve
For information on Evolve's privacy practices, see the Evolve California Personnel Privacy Notice located at https://evolvetreatment.com/personnel-privacy-notice/.

Apply