Commercial Kitchen Aide Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of hospitality, the importance of commercial kitchen aides can’t be overstated.
As the culinary industry evolves, the demand for dedicated individuals who can maintain, support, and enhance the kitchen’s efficiency grows stronger.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a commercial kitchen aide?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager drafting the perfect job description,
- Or merely curious about the dynamics of commercial kitchen operations,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable commercial kitchen aide job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s get started.
Commercial Kitchen Aide Duties and Responsibilities
Commercial Kitchen Aides support the smooth operation of a commercial kitchen by assisting chefs, cooks and other kitchen staff with various tasks.
They also ensure cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen area.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Assisting with the preparation of food, including washing, peeling and cutting vegetables and fruits
- Assisting in cooking and preparing parts of meals under the supervision of chefs or cooks
- Ensuring the kitchen area and utensils are cleaned and sanitized to meet health and safety standards
- Restocking kitchen supplies as necessary
- Storing food and ingredients in appropriate conditions to maintain freshness
- Helping to unload food supplies from delivery trucks
- Taking out the garbage and ensuring waste is disposed of properly
- Supporting in dishwashing and maintaining cleanliness of the serving area
- Maintaining a sanitary and safe working environment at all times
Commercial Kitchen Aide Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a diligent and hardworking Commercial Kitchen Aide to join our team.
The Kitchen Aide will assist in food preparation and general kitchen sanitation.
Key responsibilities will include cleaning, maintaining the kitchen equipment, and adhering to health and safety standards.
The ideal candidate is someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, has a passion for food preparation and has strong organizational skills.
Responsibilities
- Assist chefs and cooks with food preparation as needed
- Ensure kitchen equipment and utensils are clean and well maintained
- Unload and store food deliveries
- Manage waste and recycle appropriately
- Adhere to health and safety standards in the kitchen
- Maintain clean work areas and dispose of kitchen waste
- Assist in inventory and stock management
- Perform other tasks as assigned by the Kitchen Manager
Qualifications
- Prior experience in a commercial kitchen, restaurant or similar environment preferred
- Knowledge of food preparation and safety regulations
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Able to lift heavy items and stand for extended periods
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Food Handler’s Certificate is an advantage
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Free meals during shifts
- Retirement plan
- Opportunities for career advancement
Additional Information
- Job Title: Commercial Kitchen Aide
- Work Environment: Commercial kitchen. Role requires standing for long periods and lifting heavy items.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Kitchen Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Commercial Kitchen Aide Do?
Commercial Kitchen Aides work primarily in the food service industry, supporting chefs, cooks, and other kitchen staff in preparing and cooking meals in a commercial setting such as restaurants, cafes, and catering services.
They are responsible for a variety of tasks, including washing and cutting fruits, vegetables, and meats, and assisting in the preparation of meals under the supervision of the head chef or cook.
Commercial Kitchen Aides also play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness of the kitchen.
This includes washing dishes, utensils, and cooking equipment, as well as cleaning workstations and the kitchen floor.
They may also be in charge of restocking kitchen supplies and ingredients, ensuring that the kitchen operates smoothly and efficiently.
In larger establishments, Commercial Kitchen Aides may also assist in receiving and storing deliveries, handling inventory, and ensuring that food safety standards are met.
Overall, Commercial Kitchen Aides are key to the functioning of a commercial kitchen, providing support and assistance to the cooking staff to ensure that customers receive high-quality food in a timely manner.
Commercial Kitchen Aide Qualifications and Skills
A Commercial Kitchen Aide should possess a variety of skills and qualifications, including:
- Knowledge of food preparation and cooking techniques to assist in the production of meals.
- Understanding of hygiene and food safety regulations to maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment.
- Physical stamina and strength to stand for long periods, carry heavy kitchen equipment, and perform other physically demanding tasks.
- Time-management skills to ensure that food is prepared and cooked on time, especially during busy periods.
- Teamwork abilities to work effectively with other kitchen staff, including chefs, dishwashers, and servers.
- Communication skills to understand instructions from chefs and other kitchen staff, and to relay information effectively.
- Problem-solving skills to quickly resolve any issues that may arise in the kitchen, such as equipment malfunctions or food shortages.
- Detail-oriented nature to carefully measure and mix ingredients, maintain portion control, and present food attractively.
Commercial Kitchen Aide Experience Requirements
Commercial Kitchen Aides are typically expected to possess a certain level of practical experience in a kitchen environment.
This experience is usually gained through part-time or full-time roles in the hospitality industry such as a dishwasher, prep cook, or line cook.
Entry-level commercial kitchen aide positions may only require a few months to a year of experience.
However, these roles often require candidates to have basic food safety knowledge, which can be obtained through a certified food handler’s course.
Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience in a commercial kitchen are often more familiar with kitchen operations, including food preparation, equipment maintenance, and cleaning duties.
They may also have experience with more specialized tasks, such as food presentation or catering event setup.
Individuals with more than 3 years of experience often have extensive knowledge of food safety regulations, kitchen procedures, and equipment use.
They may have also developed their skills in coordinating tasks and managing time effectively in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
These candidates are often ready to take on more responsibilities, such as training new kitchen aides or assisting with inventory management.
Those with more than 5 years of experience may have gained leadership experience in their roles and could be ready for supervisory positions in the kitchen.
They are often proficient in all aspects of kitchen operations and are equipped with the skills to manage a team, ensuring efficient and safe kitchen operations.
Commercial Kitchen Aide Education and Training Requirements
Commercial Kitchen Aides typically need a high school diploma or equivalent.
While formal education is not strictly required, a certificate or associate degree in culinary arts or a related field may be beneficial.
Training is usually provided on the job, where Kitchen Aides learn food preparation techniques, sanitation practices, and safety procedures.
In addition, some states require food service workers, such as Commercial Kitchen Aides, to have a food handler’s card that demonstrates they have completed a food safety training course.
Being certified in first aid and CPR can also be an asset in this role, considering the potential for kitchen accidents.
Knowledge of food allergies and dietary restrictions can be useful too.
Although not a requirement, some Kitchen Aides may choose to further their education and training to advance in their career, possibly becoming chefs or kitchen managers.
Commercial Kitchen Aide Salary Expectations
A Commercial Kitchen Aide earns an average salary of $24,360 (USD) per year.
The salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, the location of employment, and the scale of the commercial kitchen they are employed in.
Commercial Kitchen Aide Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Commercial Kitchen Aide need?
Commercial Kitchen Aides need to possess strong communication and organizational skills.
They should be able to follow instructions accurately, work efficiently under pressure, and maintain cleanliness in the kitchen.
They should also have basic cooking skills and knowledge of food safety regulations.
Familiarity with kitchen equipment, including commercial dishwashers, mixers, and slicers, is advantageous.
Do Commercial Kitchen Aides need any specific qualifications?
Commercial Kitchen Aides typically do not need formal qualifications, but a high school diploma or equivalent is often required.
Training is usually provided on the job, but prior experience in a commercial kitchen can be an advantage.
Some employers may require Kitchen Aides to have a food handler’s certificate.
What should you look for in a Commercial Kitchen Aide resume?
A Commercial Kitchen Aide’s resume should highlight their experience in food preparation and cleaning tasks.
Look for candidates with a history of working efficiently in high-stress environments.
It can also be beneficial if the candidate has completed food safety training or has any culinary education.
What qualities make a good Commercial Kitchen Aide?
A good Commercial Kitchen Aide is hardworking, detail-oriented, and able to work effectively in a team.
They should have a positive attitude, be able to multi-task, and adapt quickly to changing situations.
Dedication to maintaining cleanliness and following food safety procedures is also vital.
What are the daily duties of a Commercial Kitchen Aide?
A Commercial Kitchen Aide’s duties vary depending on the size and type of establishment.
However, their tasks typically include assisting with food preparation, cleaning kitchen appliances and work areas, unloading deliveries, and storing food supplies.
They may also help in serving food and washing dishes.
Conclusion
There you have it!
Today, we’ve flipped open the recipe book on what it truly entails to be a commercial kitchen aide.
And you know what?
It’s not just about chopping vegetables.
It’s about being the backbone of a bustling kitchen, one dish at a time.
With our go-to commercial kitchen aide job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to turn the heat up on your career.
But why stop at being ready?
Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards creating a finely seasoned job listing or whisking your resume into perfection.
Remember:
Every dish prepared is a part of the larger culinary masterpiece.
Let’s cook up that future. Together.
How to Become a Commercial Kitchen Aide (Complete Guide)
Safe Bet Careers: Jobs Unfazed by Economic Uncertainty
The Less Trodden Trail: Unusual Jobs with Unexpected Paths