Cook

El Pollo Loco; California (MO); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

No overnight hours

Employee discount on food

Excellent career growth potential

Flexible Schedule

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid vacation

Employee Assistance Program

Flexible spending accounts, Legal &Pet

401(K) plan with match

Discounts on theme parks, movieTickets

Job summary

El Pollo Loco is hiring a Grill Master (Cook) to craft flame-grilled offerings and deliver the brand's best guest experience at our Van Nuys location. You will follow precise standards for preparation and presentation while contributing to a hospitable, fast-paced team environment.

The role emphasizes customer service, food safety, and adherence to company guidelines, with both full-time and part-time scheduling options. Competitive pay and benefits are highlighted for this position.

Qualifications

• Experience in customer service or food service preferred but not required.
• Must obtain Food Handler Certification promptly upon hire.
• Ability to follow strict kitchen standards and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Prepare grilled and hot food items following El Pollo Loco standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and food safety throughout the shift.
• Engage with guests to ensure a positive dining experience.

Skills

Customer service

Food service

Education

Food Handler Certification

Job description

6411 Sepulveda Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91411, USA

Job Description

Posted Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 4:00 AM

At El Pollo Loco, we don’t just serve fire-grilled chicken — we serve careers that bring the heat. As a Grill Master, you’re not just cooking chicken; you’re igniting the El Pollo Loco experience. You’ll bring your passion, ideas, and energy to every order, following our flame-grilled standards to serve craveable flavors and unforgettable guest moments.

POSITION PURPOSE:

The Grill Master (Cook) creates "Best in Class" guest experience at El Pollo Loco by preparing grilled and hot food items, following precise Company standards for preparation and presentation.

QUALIFICATIONS – EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. The requirements listed below are representative of the education and/or experience required.

Certifications

Obtain Food Handler Certification promptly upon hire, adhering to EPL policy and state regulations.

Education/Work Experience:

Previous experience in customer service or food service is preferred but not required.

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive pay
• No overnight hours
• Employee discount on food
• Excellent career growth potential (we promote from within)
• Flexible Schedule: Full-Time or Part-Time hours
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance*
• Paid vacation**
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible spending accounts, Legal Insurance, and Pet Insurance*
• 401(K) plan with match and immediate vesting (must be at least 21 to participate)
• Discounts on theme parks, movie tickets, sports events, hotels and more...

* Eligibility for these benefits is based on the number of average hours worked per week within a 12-month period.

** Eligibility begins after completing at least 12 months of employment averaging 33 hours of work per week.

Why work for us?

When it comes to our people, our motto is: Let them cook. In fact, we see you as our secret ingredient. While our chicken is fire, it’s our people

Who set us ablaze. You’re the ones bringing the passion, ideas and energy–the flavor–whether cooking in the restaurant or working in the support center. That’s why we take pride in providing a place where you can express, develop and belong… all while enjoying a healthy balance. Here, fire-grilled chicken makes flamin’ good careers.

The pay range identified is the hourly or salary rate El Pollo Loco expects to pay for the posted position. This range does not include any benefits or bonus opportunities that might be available for the position based on position and eligibility criteria. Individual pay will vary based on a variety of factors including years of experience, industry experience, education, geography, etc.