Kitchen Assistant Jobs

Kitchen Assistants are in demand across the hospitality and catering industry. From restaurants and pubs to schools, hospitals, hotels, and event venues, skilled and reliable Kitchen Assistants help ensure smooth operations behind the scenes.

Becoming a Kitchen Assistant typically doesn’t require formal qualifications, making entry-level roles such as these a popular choice for students, career changers, and those looking to re-enter the workforce. With training often provided, Kitchen Assistant jobs are a fantastic way to learn kitchen basics and work as part of a fast-moving team.

Explore Kitchen Assistant Jobs by Workplace

The duties of a Kitchen Assistant may vary slightly depending on the type of kitchen and employer. Here are some common settings where Kitchen Assistants work:

Restaurant and Pub Kitchens

In these high-pressure environments, Kitchen Assistants support Chefs during prep and service. Tasks may include peeling and chopping vegetables, keeping workstations clean, and helping with dishwashing or food storage.

Hotel and Resort Kitchens

Larger hotel kitchens may employ several Kitchen Assistants to help with multiple services—such as breakfast buffets, room service prep, and banqueting support. The work is varied and offers the chance to learn across several areas.

Schools, Hospitals, and Care Homes

Kitchen Assistants are essential in institutional catering, helping to prepare nutritious meals for students, patients, and residents. These roles often offer more regular working hours and are ideal for those seeking weekday shifts.

Event and Contract Catering

From festivals to conferences, catering companies often hire Kitchen Assistants to help with food prep, serving, and clean-up. These roles are a good fit for those looking for flexible or short-term work with lots of variety.

Types of Kitchen Assistant Contracts

Kitchen Assistant jobs are available in a range of contract types to suit different schedules and lifestyles.

Full-Time Kitchen Assistant Jobs

Full-time positions offer job security, regular pay, and structured working hours. These roles may also include on-the-job training, uniforms, meals, and other staff benefits. Ideal for those seeking a stable, long-term kitchen role.

Part-Time and Flexible Work

Part-time Kitchen Assistant jobs are common in hospitality and institutional settings. Many employers offer morning, evening, or weekend shifts, making them a great option for students, parents, or those with other commitments.

Temporary and Seasonal Opportunities

Temporary Kitchen Assistant roles are in high demand during peak periods such as summer holidays, Christmas, or event season. These positions are perfect for gaining fast-paced kitchen experience over a short period of time.

Skills and Qualities for Kitchen Assistant Jobs

Kitchen Assistants need to be reliable, hardworking, and able to work well as part of a team. While no formal training is usually needed, employers value the following:

• Good hygiene and cleanliness standards
• Ability to follow instructions and work quickly
• Basic food preparation skills
• Physical stamina and comfort with manual tasks
• A positive, can-do attitude
• Willingness to learn and take on varied duties

Some employers may require a basic Food Hygiene Certificate or be willing to provide one as part of your induction.

Kitchen Assistant Jobs FAQ

What Does a Kitchen Assistant Do?

Kitchen Assistants support the wider kitchen team by preparing ingredients, maintaining hygiene, cleaning workspaces, washing dishes, and assisting with deliveries or storage. They ensure that the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently.

Do I Need Experience to Be a Kitchen Assistant?

Not always. Many Kitchen Assistant roles are entry-level and include full training. However, some experience in a kitchen or food-handling environment may be helpful, especially in busy or high-volume settings.

How Much Can I Earn as a Kitchen Assistant?

Kitchen Assistant salaries in the UK typically range from £12.50 to £14 per hour, depending on location, employer, and shift type. Some roles also offer tips, overtime, meals, or holiday pay.

Can I Progress from a Kitchen Assistant Role?

Yes. With experience, many Kitchen Assistants advance to Commis Chef roles, Kitchen Supervisors, or Prep Cooks. Employers often support internal progression for those who are keen to learn and grow in the kitchen environment.