Food Preparation Workers

Pay in California

Median: $40,347 a year, $19.40 an hour.

About 112,750 people work in this job in California.

Source: EDD LMID OEWS, 2026 1st quarter, California statewide (data.ca.gov resource modified 2026-10-01)

Outlook

Projected change from 2024 to 2034: +1%, with about 195,850 total openings expected.

Source: EDD LMID long-term projections 2024 to 2034, California

Typical credential

Typical education to start: No formal educational credential. On-the-job training: Short-term on-the-job training. Work experience: None.

Job details on O*NET

Find jobs

• CalJOBS
• America’s Job Center of California office locator
• Find an American Job Center (CareerOneStop)

Schools with a matching program

Programs are matched by title. Confirm with the school that a program leads to this job.

• Corona-Norco Adult (Inland Empire): CUL - Food Handlers Certification
• Burbank Adult (Los Angeles): ServSafe
• Los Angeles Harbor College (Los Angeles): Culinary: Food Handlers Card (VOC ED 539CE)
• College Of The Redwoods (Northern California): ServSafe Food Handler Training & Exam for Students with Disabilities (GUID 231)
• Woodland Community College (Sacramento region): Servsafe Manager (CUL 554)