New Store - Prepared Foods Cook / Food Production - Full Time - Elk Grove, California - Opening Late Summer 2026

Whole Foods Market is a leading retailer in the organic and natural foods industry, committed to nourishing people and the planet. Established as a pioneer in promoting healthy lifestyles, the company emphasizes sustainability, ethical sourcing, and community engagement. Whole Foods Market is more than a grocery store; it is a mission-driven organization dedicated to improving how people eat, supporting food education through grants for school gardens, fighting food deserts by providing access to fresh and healthy products, alleviating poverty in developing countries, and continuously setting new standards of excellence within the grocery industry.

At Whole Foods Market, Team Members are empowered to make meaningful contributions not only within their community but also on a global scale. The culture promotes personal growth, fosters collaboration, and places a strong focus on customer service and product quality to create a positive shopping experience. The company offers a variety of career opportunities that provide stability, competitive wages, and benefits, including a wage range for this position between $18.50 and $30.20 per hour, commensurate with experience. Whole Foods Market's inclusive workplace environment supports fairness and equal opportunities for all employees irrespective of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability.

The role being offered is within the food preparation team, focusing on the proper handling, preparation, and maintenance of food items in the cold case, fresh pack, salad, and hot bars. This position is critical to ensuring that food quality, safety, and presentation standards meet or exceed company and regulatory requirements. Responsibilities involve preparing food items according to recipes to guarantee consistency and quality, accurately labeling and dating products, monitoring food freshness and rotation, replenishing supplies promptly throughout the shift, and maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of the work area and equipment.

Successful candidates will demonstrate strong product knowledge, an ability to follow precise recipes, and a good understanding of food production and basic cooking techniques. Communication and teamwork skills are essential, along with a passion for natural foods and the company’s mission. Employees must be physically capable of performing tasks that involve lifting up to 50 pounds, standing or walking for extended periods, and working in various temperature-controlled environments. This role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, or holidays as needed and a commitment to adhere to safety and sanitation standards.

Whole Foods Market provides extensive training and encourages continuous learning for its team members, supporting advancement opportunities based on performance and business needs. The company promotes a positive work environment where respect, professionalism, and a strong work ethic are valued. Joining Whole Foods Market means becoming part of a team dedicated to revolutionizing the grocery industry and making a difference every day by delivering fresh, healthy food and outstanding service to customers.