10 Full-Time Cook Jobs in Santa Maria, CA - January 2026
If you're looking for Full-Time Cook jobs in Santa Maria, you're in the right place. The city's hospitality scene is thriving, and OysterLink currently lists 10 Cook positions available for full-time work at various restaurants, hotels, and catering companies in the area.
New job listings are posted regularly, and employers are eager to hire qualified Full-Time Cooks to join their teams and meet growing customer demand.
Recent Openings for Cooks in Santa Maria, CA
There have been 2 new jobs posted in the last 10 days, reflecting a steady influx of opportunities to find verified, up-to-date Full-Time Cook roles in Santa Maria.
Cook Salary in Santa Maria, CA
From the job listings we have, the average salary for Full-Time Cooks in Santa Maria is $46,300 per year or $22.3 per hour, reflecting compensation competitive for the region's food service industry.
Job listings show wages ranging from $39,500 per year to $60,300 per year depending on experience level, type of establishment, and hours worked.
| Lowest wage for Cooks in Santa Maria | Average wage for Cooks in Santa Maria | Highest wage for Cooks in Santa Maria |
|---|---|---|
| $39,500 per year | $46,300 per year or $22.3 per hour | $60,300 per year |
Full-Service restaurants and catering firms often offer higher wages and opportunities for advancement.
Santa Maria’s growing food culture and tourism industry contribute to consistent demand for skilled Cooks offering competitive salaries.
If you're considering Full-Time Cook jobs in Santa Maria, you can expect stable employment prospects and potential for tips or bonuses depending on the venue.
How To Apply for Cook Jobs in Santa Maria, CA
Applying for jobs is straightforward with OysterLink. Every listing is verified and includes clear information about salary, work hours, employer type, and qualifications. You can filter jobs by:
- Pay rate
- Experience level
- Full-time, part-time, or seasonal
- Shift availability
Employers hiring for Full-Time Cook positions in Santa Maria prioritize early applications, so timely submission can improve your chances.
Simply click apply, upload your resume, and connect directly with hiring managers.
Why Cook Jobs Are in Demand in Santa Maria
Santa Maria has a dynamic hospitality sector with strong demand for Full-Time Cooks across various eatery types.
Here are neighborhoods and typical establishments where Cooks are needed in Santa Maria:
| Neighborhoods | Establishments |
|---|---|
| Downtown Santa Maria | Family restaurants |
| Orcutt | Steakhouses |
| Northern Santa Maria | Hotel kitchens |
The local agricultural industry and tourism support a wide range of dining venues requiring experienced Cooks.
Where Cooks Are in Demand in Santa Maria
Here are some employers actively seeking Cooks in Santa Maria:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Orcutt Union School District and Academy Charter High School
- Urbane Cafe
What To Expect as a Cook in Santa Maria
Full-Time Cook duties in Santa Maria generally include:
- Preparing ingredients and cooking menu items
- Maintaining kitchen cleanliness and safety
- Following recipes and portion controls
- Collaborating with kitchen staff and management
Employers often expect Cooks to work efficiently during busy shifts and uphold quality standards.
Work hours may include nights, weekends, and holidays, with opportunities to gain culinary skills and experience.
Some openings require previous cooking experience, though there are also entry-level positions with training.
Cook Job Benefits and Perks in Santa Maria
Full-Time Cook jobs in Santa Maria often include Bereavement leave, Free Meals, and other benefits.
If you are searching for Full-Time Cook positions that offer more than just competitive pay, many local employers provide perks to attract and retain staff.
Explore More Cook Opportunities Near Santa Maria
Santa Maria is part of a broader regional job market for cooks, with opportunities also available nearby in:
- Buellton, CA
- Orcutt, CA
- Lompoc, CA
- Sisquoc, CA
Each location offers different schedules, venues, and potential benefits. Whether you’re looking for Cook jobs near you or want to explore opportunities across Santa Maria’s hospitality landscape, OysterLink provides up-to-date verified job listings to help you find the right fit.
Useful Resources for Cooks in Santa Maria, CA
Here are some useful resources if you're a Cook in Santa Maria:
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| ServSafe | Food safety training and certification |
| California Dept. of Industrial Relations | Labor laws and workplace safety info |
| Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce | Local business and employment resources |