18 Full-Time Prep Cook Jobs in Santa Maria, CA - December 2025
If you're looking for Prep Cook jobs in Santa Maria, you're in the right place. The city's foodservice industry is active, and OysterLink currently lists 18 Prep Cook positions across restaurants, catering companies, hotels, and other establishments in the area.
New listings are posted regularly, and employers are hiring immediately for essential kitchen roles like Prep Cooks on a full-time basis.
Recent Openings for Prep Cooks in Santa Maria, CA
There have been 2 new jobs jobs have been posted in the last 10 days, demonstrating a steady flow of new full-time Prep Cook opportunities in Santa Maria and nearby communities.
Prep Cook Salary in Santa Maria, CA
Based on available job listings, the average salary for Prep Cooks in Santa Maria is $35,000 per year or $16.83 per hour. This reflects base pay and may vary with tips or overtime.
Salaries typically range between $25,000 per year and $55,000 per year, influenced by employer, experience level, and hours worked.
| Lowest wage for Prep Cooks in Santa Maria | Average wage for Prep Cooks in Santa Maria | Highest wage for Prep Cooks in Santa Maria |
|---|---|---|
| $25,000 per year | $35,000 per year or $16.83 per hour | $55,000 per year |
Full-service restaurants and larger catering companies often offer higher wages.
The demand for quality kitchen staff in Santa Maria helps maintain competitive salaries for Prep Cooks in the area.
If you’re considering a full-time career as a Prep Cook in Santa Maria, expect steady work and opportunities to improve your skills.
How To Apply for Prep Cook Jobs in Santa Maria, CA
Applying for positions is straightforward with OysterLink, where each job listing includes detailed info on pay, schedule, employer, and requirements. You can filter listings by:
- Pay rate
- Experience level
- Full-time or part-time availability
- Shift times
Employers seeking full-time Prep Cooks want qualified and reliable candidates, so sending your application early can improve your chances.
Simply click apply, submit your details, and connect directly with hiring managers.
Why Prep Cook Jobs Are in Demand in Santa Maria
Santa Maria's vibrant foodservice scene creates consistent demand for Prep Cooks in various kitchen settings.
Below are neighborhoods and establishments with notable need for Prep Cooks in Santa Maria:
| Neighborhoods | Establishments |
|---|---|
| Downtown Santa Maria | Family restaurants |
| Creekside | Catering services |
| Orcutt | Hotel kitchens |
These areas have busy kitchens that require skilled Prep Cooks to ensure smooth operation and high-quality food preparation.
Where Prep Cooks Are in Demand in Santa Maria
Below are some employers actively looking to hire Prep Cooks in Santa Maria:
What To Expect as a Prep Cook in Santa Maria
Prep Cook job responsibilities often include:
- Preparing ingredients for cooking
- Maintaining kitchen cleanliness and safety
- Assisting chefs with food prep tasks
- Organizing supplies and inventory
Employers prioritize efficiency and attention to detail for Prep Cooks to ensure quality and timely food service.
Full-time Prep Cooks typically work assigned shifts with variable hours, including weekends and holidays.
Experience is beneficial but many workplaces provide on-the-job training for motivated candidates.
Prep Cook Job Benefits and Perks in Santa Maria
Many full-time Prep Cook roles offer a combination of competitive pay, health insurance, paid time off, and other benefits.
Employers usually offer PTO, 401k, and more to attract dedicated kitchen staff.
Explore More Prep Cook Opportunities Near Santa Maria
Santa Maria is part of a region with several hubs for culinary jobs. Consider exploring Prep Cook jobs in nearby cities like:
- Santa Barbara
- Grover Beach
- Orcutt
- Solvang
These locations may provide additional schedules, wage ranges, or kitchen environments to fit your needs.
Whether you're looking for Prep Cook jobs near you or want to broaden your search, OysterLink makes finding real-time, verified listings easy.
Useful Resources for Prep Cooks in Santa Maria, CA
Here are some resources to help Prep Cooks in Santa Maria:
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| City of Santa Maria Official Website | Local government and community resources |
| ServSafe Food Handler Training | Certified food handler courses in California |
| 360training Food Handler Certification | Online food safety certification recognized in California |