1

Temporary Cooking Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Saint Helena, CA · On-site

$1.3K - $1.3K/wk

... cooking. ""Room Service Model"" Two Shifts - AM 5:00am - Full-time, Part-time, Contract, Temporary In-Office | St. Helena, CA, United States The Opportunity You're the kind of person who is always ...

Prep Cook

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Temporary PT Prep Cook - Marin French Cheese Bistro Join California's Original Cheese Company! Love fresh food, great ingredients, and working in a fast-paced kitchen environment? Marin French Cheese ...

Prep Cook

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Temporary PT Prep Cook - Marin French Cheese Bistro Join California's Original Cheese Company! Love fresh food, great ingredients, and working in a fast-paced kitchen environment? Marin French Cheese ...

The Lunch cook knows temp by touch, can saute and is familiar with using a fryer and has good knife skills. $16/hr or more DOE plus tips. Hours are 7 am to 3 pm. Moody's Bistro Bar & Beats is the ...

Cook

Eureka, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

This is a temporary position that will last approximately 3 months. Ridgeline Management Company is ... The Cook prepares and serves meals for the dietary department in a safe and appetizing method in ...

Cook

Hemet, CA · On-site

$18.57 - $23.22/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$19.38 - $24.23/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook

Irvine, CA · On-site

$19.38 - $24.23/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$19 - $24.23/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Cook

Whittier, CA

$21 - $23/hr

Operate and maintain a grill station, including cooking to order and managing multiple tickets at ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Temporary Cooking information

What are some common challenges faced by temporary cooks, and how can they adapt quickly to new kitchen environments?

Temporary cooks often face the challenge of adapting to unfamiliar kitchens, equipment, and team dynamics with little onboarding time. To succeed, it’s important to ask clear questions about kitchen protocols, observe how regular staff operate, and stay organized with prep and cleanup. Flexibility, strong communication, and a positive attitude can help temporary cooks integrate smoothly and contribute effectively, even in fast-paced or high-pressure settings.

What is the difference between Temporary Cooking vs Line Cook?

AspectTemporary CookingLine Cook
CredentialsMay require basic food safety certificationTypically requires culinary training or experience
Work EnvironmentTemporary kitchens, events, or short-term assignmentsConsistent kitchen environment, restaurant or food service
Employer & IndustryEvent companies, catering, temp agenciesRestaurants, hotels, food establishments
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for short-term cooking jobsSeeking ongoing kitchen roles

Temporary Cooking involves short-term, often event-based or contract-based cooking roles, while a Line Cook is a permanent or long-term position within a restaurant kitchen. Both roles require basic food safety knowledge, but Line Cooks typically need more culinary experience. Temporary Cooking offers flexibility and variety, whereas Line Cooks focus on consistent kitchen operations.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Cook, you need solid culinary skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment, often supported by a food handler’s certificate. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and point-of-sale systems is typically necessary. Strong time management, adaptability, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in ever-changing settings. These competencies ensure consistent food quality, efficient service, and smooth integration into diverse kitchen teams.

What is a temporary cooking job?

A temporary cooking job involves working as a cook or chef for a limited period, often to fill short-term staffing needs at restaurants, catering companies, events, or seasonal venues. These positions can range from a few days to several months and may involve tasks such as food preparation, cooking, serving, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. Temporary cooks are often hired during busy periods, staff absences, or for special events, providing flexibility for both employers and employees.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in California? The most popular types of Cooking jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Temporary Cooking jobs? Cities in California with the most Temporary Cooking job openings:
Infographic showing various Temporary Cooking job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Auxiliary Services Student Temporary Employee

Auxiliary Services Student Temporary Employee

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$17.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


University Of San Diego rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

453rd of 539 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Auxiliary Services Student Temporary Employee
Posting #: 5373
Position Status: Part-time temporary
Location: San Diego
Position Type: Expression of Interest
Submit your application for summer & fall 2026. Auxiliary Services has an array of unique jobs available and no experience is necessary!
Tips for Applying:
  • You may complete the Google application form by clicking the 'Apply Today' button which will take you to the part-time application.
  • Prior to the start of each semester, we recommend you apply early and you will get first pick of location and shifts! The required university background check can take some time so do not delay.
  • Don't forget to: bring your original ID documents (birth certificate, license etc.) with you to campus. We cannot accept copies. See Requirements below to learn more about what documents you will need.
  • If you do not hear from a hiring manager within two weeks of submitting your application, you may email auxjobs@sandiego.edu to inquire about the status of your application.

General Job Descriptions and Links to Departmental Websites
  • Campus Dining
    • General tasks: cashiering, customer service, cooking (preparing drinks and/or food), cleaning
    • Various locations
  • Catering
    • General tasks: serving, preparing drinks and/or food, customer service, cleaning
    • Various campus locations depending on the event
  • La Gran Terraza (restaurant/pub)
    • Jobs: server, prep cook, bartender, dish room
    • Location: University Center
  • USD Torero Store
    • General Retail Tasks: cashiering, handling/preparing merchandise, customer service, cleaning
    • Location: University Center/SLP
  • Auxiliary Services Storeroom
    • Tasks: very physical work, must be able to consistently lift/move 50 pounds
    • Location: University Center
  • Student Affairs Facilities
    • Tasks: very physical work, must be able to consistently lift/move 50 pounds
    • Various campus locations as needed

Requirements
  • Offers of employment at the University of San Diego are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
  • Bring applicable original documents with you to campus for your hiring paperwork (such as social security card, birth certificate, passport etc.) These original documents are needed to complete the hiring process.
    • Without physically showing original documents to the Hiring Manager - you will not be able to work.
    • Learn more about which documents you will need.

Trainings and Compliance
Depending on your position, various trainings and compliance standards will need to be completed prior to your first day of work, and/or within a certain timeframe. If trainings are not completed on time you may be subject to termination. Learn more about the training requirements. Required trainings may include;
  • Foodservice Jobs: You must obtain a California Food Handler's Card within 30 days of hire date.
  • Bartenders/Servers: Any position serving alcohol will be required to complete RBS training within 60 days of hire date.
  • Golf Carts/USD Vehicles: any position required to drive a golf cart/vehicle requires a valid driver's license and completion of applicable training.

Schedules
Part-time staff are expected to work a minimum of 8-10 hours per week. Individual shifts are a minimum of 3 hours. Most part-time staff work 10-15 hours per week, with a maximum of 25 hours per week total during the regular (fall/spring) semesters as set by university policy.
Note: If you are a student and have more than one job on campus, the total number of hours worked per week cannot be more than 25 hours.
Pay Rate
Part-time positions start at minimum wage: $17.75
Federal Work Study
Auxiliary Services positions are not Federal Work Study eligible. Learn about FWS jobs via Torero Hub.
Advertised: April 20, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:
Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App