San Gabriel - Sushi Prep

Yama Sushi Marketplace; San Gabriel (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Yama Sushi Marketplace in San Gabriel is hiring a Sushi Helper to support Sushi production and kitchen prep under the Sushi Chef. You'll assist in ingredient preparation, rice cooking, station setup, and maintain overall kitchen cleanliness to support quality and speed.

This entry-level role welcomes those eager to learn sushi techniques. You should be comfortable standing long hours, have basic knife and food safety knowledge, and be a reliable team player.

Qualifications

• Food Handler’s Certification required (or obtained before first shift).
• Willingness to learn sushi techniques and kitchen operations.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced team and maintain attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Prep ingredients, cut vegetables, portion fish, and make sauces.
• Cook and season sushi rice under supervision.
• Stock and organize sushi station with ingredients and packaging.
• Wash and sanitize prep surfaces, tools, and storage containers.
• Follow food safety protocols and labeling.
• Wrap, garnish, and assemble basic rolls or platters.
• Support dishwashing and kitchen cleaning.
• Communicate shortages or quality issues to sushi lead or manager.

Skills

Willingness to learn sushi techniques

Following instructions

Strong work ethic

Basic knife skills

Food safety knowledge

Team-oriented

Communication skills

Education

Food Handler’s Certification

Job description

Position Summary:

The Sushi Helper supports Sushi production and kitchen prep under the supervision of the Sushi Chef. This role assists in ingredient preparation, rice cooking, station setup, and overall kitchen cleanliness. The Sushi Helper plays a key role in supporting quality, speed, and consistency in food operations.

Base Hourly Pay Range: $20 - $25, plus TIPS which are estimated to be an additional $3 - $5 per hour based on past earnings.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with prepping ingredients (cutting vegetables, portioning fish, making sauces)
• Cook and season sushi rice under supervision
• Stock and organize the sushi station with fresh ingredients, tools, and packaging
• Wash and sanitize prep surfaces, tools, and storage containers
• Follow all food safety and hygiene protocols (glove use, labeling, temp logs)
• Assist in wrapping, garnishing, and assembling basic rolls or platters as directed
• Support dishwashing and general kitchen cleaning tasks
• Communicate supply shortages or quality issues to sushi lead or manager

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Willingness to learn sushi techniques and kitchen operations
• Ability to follow instructions and standard prep methods
• Strong work ethic, punctuality, and attention to detail
• Basic knife and food safety knowledge
• Ability to work well in a fast-paced team environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills and a team-oriented attitude. Join us in creating delicious meals while developing your skills in the culinary field!

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods (up to 8 hours)
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs
• Exposure to refrigerated environments and kitchen equipment
• Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive motions

Qualifications:

• Previous kitchen prep experience preferred but not required
• Food Handler’s Certification (or obtained before 1st shift)
• Eagerness to grow within culinary or sushi-focused roles

Disclaimer:

We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, per applicable laws.

The duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Management reserves the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities that are reasonably related to the role, based on operational needs and in alignment with the scope of the position.

Yama Sushi Marketplace is your neighborhood Japanese sushi market, proudly serving the community for over 40 years. We now have three locations across San Gabriel, West LA, and Koreatown. We’re best known for our premium grab-and-go sushi, consistently ranked among the best in Los Angeles. But we’re more than just a sushi spot—we’re a window to Japan. From LA’s largest selection of sake to rare Japanese snacks, artisanal sauces, and specialty items sourced directly from Japan, we bring the authentic tastes and spirit of Japan to your everyday life.