Prep Cook

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) is a well-established restaurant chain with over 35 years of experience known for its innovative approach to California-inspired cuisine. With a deep commitment to a culture that ROCKS — Respect, Opportunities, open Communication, Kindness, and epic Service — CPK prides itself on creating a vibrant and supportive workplace for team members who are passionate about their roles. CPK places a strong emphasis on fostering an inclusive environment where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to the company’s success. The restaurant is not just about delicious food but also about building community and relationships with both guests and employees alike. This philosophy has helped CPK become a leader in the casual dining segment, offering a unique blend of culinary creativity and excellent service.

The Prep Cook role at California Pizza Kitchen is perfect for individuals who thrive in dynamic, fun, and fast-paced restaurant environments and who have a passion for food with an adventurous spirit. This entry-level position offers an ideal opportunity to join a team that brings California creativity to every meal and prioritizes exceptional guest experiences. Prep Cooks at CPK are responsible for maintaining the highest standards of food quality and sanitation by adhering strictly to assigned recipes, procedures, food preparation specifications, and techniques. Through their dedication and attention to detail, Prep Cooks ensure that each meal meets the high standards that CPK guests expect.

In this role, you will contribute to a team that values respect, teamwork, and outstanding service — adhering to CPK’s High 5 philosophy, which encourages team members to love their work, bring their authentic selves to the job, collaborate enthusiastically, obsess over service details, and passionately promote the menu offerings. The role demands strong organizational and safety skills, including assisting with receiving goods, accurately conducting daily inventory of prepared foods, and properly storing and rotating products to maintain freshness and quality. You will also ensure that cutting boards, countertops, knives, and equipment are handled safely and sanitized properly and that equipment temperatures are monitored and maintained.

Aside from the engaging work environment, CPK offers a comprehensive compensation package, paying between $16.00 and $22.25 per hour for Prep Cook positions. The company supports career growth with an excellent training program and promotes unlimited advancement opportunities for dedicated team members. Flexible shift scheduling is available for both full-time and part-time positions, ideal for those seeking a work-life balance. Employees also benefit from team member dining discounts, holiday closures, and a diverse, inclusive workplace culture. Various benefits may be available including 401K retirement plans, health insurance, dental insurance, disability insurance, and other state-mandated offerings.