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Trainee Prep Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VTCSM

Prep Cook ASC20260602

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Follow the Cooking Crew Supervisor's daily prep list. * Label and date ingredients and food items ... Perform the non-supervisory duties of the Cook or the Café Trainee Supervisor during absences and ...

VTCSM

Prep Cook ASC20260602

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Follow the Cooking Crew Supervisor's daily prep list. * Label and date ingredients and food items ... Perform the non-supervisory duties of the Cook or the Cafe Trainee Supervisor during absences and ...

Piggy's Restaurant

Part-time Prep Cook

Lake Harmony, PA · On-site

$14 - $20/hr

Cook, Trainee Cook, or Prep (We will train you) Part-Time only Location: Piggy's Restaurant, 16 N Lake Drive, Lake Harmony, PA To Apply: * Must come in person to the restaurant to fill out an ...

Hwy 55 Burgers/ Tiny Frog, Inc. (NC)

Prep cook

Dunn, NC

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

All Cooks begin as Trainees. After training is complete, Team Members receive guaranteed pay increases as they advance in levels. Leadership roles begin at Level III and are readily available and we ...

Hwy 55 Burgers/ Tiny Frog, Inc. (NC)

Prep cook

Dunn, NC · On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

All Cooks begin as Trainees. After training is complete, Team Members receive guaranteed pay increases as they advance in levels. Leadership roles begin at Level III and are readily available and we ...

Palmetto Goodwill Services

Be Seen First

Grill Prep Cook (Cook 1)

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$17.88/hr

Ensure all employees and client trainees meet all safety requirements. Report any failures of ... the Cook in charge. • Ensure all Goodwill Industries and Naval policies and procedures are ...

Veteran-friendly

Eagle Crest Communities

Food Service - Cook

Onalaska, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

Starting wage is between $18.50 and $24.00 per hour, based on your position, experience and qualifications. (Prep Cook, Production Cook, Line Cook, etc.) * Assistant Cook/Trainee: $16.50 + * We pay ...

Eagle Crest Communities

Food Service - Cook

Onalaska, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

Starting wage is between $18.50 and $24.00 per hour, based on your position, experience and qualifications. (Prep Cook, Production Cook, Line Cook, etc.) * Assistant Cook/Trainee: $16.50 + * We pay ...

Din Tai Fung

Dumpling Prep (Trainee)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$22.75/hr

Originally founded as a cooking oil retail business in Taiwan in 1958 by Bing-Yi Yang and his wife ... A Dumpling Prep (Trainee) is tasked with preparing, putting together, folding, and steaming ...

Genki Sushi USA, Inc

BOH-T - HI

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$16/hr

Back of House-Trainee (BOH-T Entry Level Trainee) Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly Primary Job Function ... Prep Cook * Sushi Cook * Fry Cook * Dishwasher * Able to efficiently run every station in the back ...

Genki Sushi USA, Inc

BOH-T - HI

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$16/hr

Back of House-Trainee (BOH-T Entry Level Trainee) Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly Primary Job Function ... Prep Cook * Sushi Cook * Fry Cook * Dishwasher * Able to efficiently run every station in the back ...

VTCSM

Cook ASC20260501

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$19.31/hr

Assists in food prep assignments during off-peak periods as needed. * Observes proper food ... Conducts initial and ongoing training of Client Trainees in food preparation, cooking meals ...

VTCSM

Cook ASC20260501

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$19.31/hr

Assists in food prep assignments during off-peak periods as needed. * Observes proper food ... Conducts initial and ongoing training of Client Trainees in food preparation, cooking meals ...

Wegmans Food Markets

Cook Trainee

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $23.25/hr

Candidates may be considered for multiple store locations within the specified region, based on current openings Required Qualifications * 2 or more years' experience as a prep or line cook * Food ...

Ilitch

Internal - Manager Trainee - 1627

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.40/hr

Little Caesars Restaurant Manager Trainee Join the Little Caesars Pizza! Pizza! Family Do you like ... Prep, cook, and serve food. * Work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment * Provide direction ...

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How much do trainee prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee prep cook in the United States is $15.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee prep cooks, and how can they overcome them?

As a trainee prep cook, one of the most common challenges is managing time effectively while maintaining consistency and quality in food preparation. It can also be demanding to quickly learn and remember proper knife skills, food safety protocols, and the unique procedures of each kitchen. To overcome these challenges, it's important to communicate openly with experienced team members, seek feedback regularly, and stay organized by prepping ingredients ahead when possible. Staying proactive and receptive to learning will help you adapt and grow in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

How much do prep chefs get paid?

Prep cooks typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and establishment. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced prep cooks or those working in high-end restaurants can earn higher wages and tips.

What is the difference between Trainee Prep Cook vs Prep Cook?

AspectTrainee Prep CookPrep Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training or no experiencePrevious prep cook experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksFull kitchen, responsible for prep work
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with basic prep, learning techniquesPreparing ingredients, assisting senior cooks

The main difference is that a Trainee Prep Cook is in training, gaining skills under supervision, while a Prep Cook is experienced and responsible for preparing ingredients independently. Trainee Prep Cooks focus on learning, whereas Prep Cooks handle more complex prep tasks in a professional kitchen.

What are trainee prep cooks?

Trainee prep cooks are entry-level kitchen workers who assist chefs and cooks by preparing ingredients, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and performing basic cooking tasks under supervision. Their responsibilities typically include washing and chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, and setting up workstations. This role is a starting point for those interested in a culinary career, providing hands-on experience and learning opportunities in a professional kitchen environment.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Prep Cook, you need basic culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training often provided. Familiarity with kitchen tools, commercial food preparation equipment, and adherence to health and safety standards is essential. Strong attention to detail, time management, and the ability to work well under pressure help you stand out in this fast-paced environment. These skills ensure food is prepared efficiently, safely, and to the quality standards required in professional kitchens.

Is a prep cook an entry level job?

Yes, a prep cook position is generally considered an entry-level job in the culinary industry. It typically requires basic cooking skills, such as knife handling and food preparation, and often does not require prior professional experience. Many employers offer on-the-job training for new prep cooks.

How do you become a prep cook?

To become a prep cook, typically you need to have basic cooking skills, knowledge of food safety, and the ability to follow recipes and instructions. Many employers prefer candidates with some kitchen experience or culinary training, and on-the-job training is common. Strong organization and teamwork skills are also important in this role.

How to get a prep cook job with no experience?

To get a prep cook job with no experience, focus on demonstrating a willingness to learn, punctuality, and basic kitchen skills. Entry-level positions often require a positive attitude and the ability to follow instructions; gaining some knowledge of food safety and knife skills can improve your chances. Volunteering or working in related roles can also help build relevant experience.
What cities are hiring for Trainee Prep Cook jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Prep Cook job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs? The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Prep Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Prep Cook jobs include:
Trainee Prep Cook jobs near you

Prep Cook ASC20260602

VTCSM

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

DETAILS OF POSITION
Location: Santa Maria / Full-time: Monday - Friday / Weekends / Hours: 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM (minimum flexibility) Starting Rate: $18.00 per hour
PURPOSE OF POSITION
Beacon, formerly VTC Enterprises/LOVARC, has been supporting adults with developmental disabilities since opening our doors in 1962. The Food Preparation Worker assists the ASC Contract Manager in preparing the food, maintains a clean and safe cooking environment and takes on cooking tasks as they arise.
For more information visit our website: www.vtc-sm.org
Food Prep tasks:
  • Follow the Cooking Crew Supervisor's daily prep list.
  • Label and date ingredients and food items. Stock pantry, refrigerator and freeze shelves in an organized manner.
  • Properly store food items in designated containers.
  • Sanitize work areas and equipment, wash dishes and take out trash as necessary.
  • Measure seasonings, condiments and ingredients for use in cooking.
  • Portion and wrap food.
  • Prepare ingredients for cooking.
  • Wash, peel, and chop fruits and vegetables.
  • Clean and cut or grind meat, fish, poultry, and shellfish.
  • Prepare simple dishes such as salads, entrees etc.
  • Place food in warming trays or refrigerated storage as appropriate.
  • Use manual and electric equipment for food preparation.
  • Preform basic cooking tasks such as stirring, straining, and parboiling food.
  • Maintain records of quantities of foods and ingredients used.
  • Update supervisors when stock of food items or supplies are low.
  • Inform managers about broken or malfunctioning equipment.
  • Comply with all food safety and sanitation guidelines.
  • Deliver food to juvenile hall as per contract specifications.
  • During absences, perform the duties of the Cooking Crew Supervisor.
  • Perform the non-supervisory duties of the Cook or the Café Trainee Supervisor during absences and meal breaks.

Qualifications
Education and/or experience: Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. Culinary arts training or vocational training preferred.
Communication skills: Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos in English. Ability to write simple correspondence in English. Ability to remember oral or written instructions provided by others.
Interpersonal skills: Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with coworkers and management. Interact diplomatically with the public. Foster a stimulating, accepting learning environment.
Self-management skills: Perform effectively in environments with frequent workload changes and competing demands. Set priorities which accurately reflect the relative importance of job responsibilities.
Reasoning ability: Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out basic written or oral instructions. Ability to think through the consequences of a decision prior to making it. Ability to recognize an emergency situation and take appropriate action.
Computer skills: Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office software.
Certificates, licenses, registrations: Must obtain and maintain a ServSafe Food Handler Certification.
Other skills and abilities: Must be able to multi-task and perform in a fast-paced work environment. Must meet and maintain Community Care Licensing criminal history criteria.
Benefits
  • Paid holiday, vacation, and family leave
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • 401-K
  • Employment Assistance Program (EAP)

Beacon is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status

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