Kitchen Hand Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of culinary arts, the role of kitchen hands has never been more crucial.

As gastronomy evolves, the demand for skilled individuals who can assist, streamline, and ensure the sanitary condition of the kitchen grows.

But what’s the real scoop on a kitchen hand’s duties?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker striving to understand the ins and outs of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the daily grind in a professional kitchen,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable kitchen hand job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get cooking.

Kitchen Hand Duties and Responsibilities

Kitchen Hands assist in maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of a kitchen in a restaurant, cafe or other food service establishment.

They also provide support to the cooking staff by preparing ingredients and carrying out basic cooking tasks.

A Kitchen Hand’s daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Assist in the preparation of food, including washing, peeling and chopping vegetables and fruits, and cutting meat
• Unload deliveries and organize the storage area
• Wash and clean utensils, equipment, and kitchen areas to maintain health and sanitation standards
• Dispose of kitchen garbage and ensure the cleanliness of the garbage disposal area
• Assist cooks and chefs with cooking and preparing meals as needed
• Restock kitchen supplies and ingredients as necessary
• Help in the plating and presentation of meals
• Follow food safety and hygiene regulations at all times
• Perform any other tasks as directed by the kitchen staff or manager

 

Kitchen Hand Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a hard-working and dedicated Kitchen Hand to join our team.

The Kitchen Hand’s responsibilities include assisting with inventory control, removing the garbage, washing garbage cans, and clearing refrigerators, freezers, and other storage areas.

Our ideal candidate is a team player, quick and diligent, and able to maintain the kitchen clean and orderly.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist cooks in the preparation of meals by chopping vegetables, making salads, and putting together entrees.
• Ensure that kitchen area, equipment, and utensils are cleaned.
• Help unload food supplies from delivery trucks.
• Wash glassware and other implements by hand when necessary.
• Empty and clean all trash receptacles.
• Rotate dishes to reduce wear and tear on resources.
• Clean dish storage.
• Follow sanitation policies at all times.
• Provide assistance to prep cook and other kitchen staff as needed, especially during peak times.
• Perform opening, closing and side work duties as instructed and according proper guidelines.

 

Qualifications

• Ability to carry out instructions provided in verbal and written form.
• Ability to handle cutting tools and kitchen utensils.
• Able to operate dish washing machines.
• Willing to assist in various tasks as needed.
• Good communication skills with a focus on customer service.
• Previous experience in a similar role is a plus.

 

Benefits

• Free meals on duty
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Kitchen Hand
• Work Environment: This role requires the ability to work in high-temperature conditions in a busy kitchen environment. Physical demands include standing, bending, lifting, and carrying heavy items.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Chef or Kitchen Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $23,000 minimum to $32,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time, part-time, shifts may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. 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 Kitchen Hand Do?

Kitchen Hands, also known as Food Preparation Workers, are crucial members of the kitchen staff in restaurants, cafes, and other food service establishments.

They work under the supervision of chefs or cooks and their primary role is to assist in the smooth running of the kitchen.

They are responsible for performing routine tasks such as preparing ingredients by washing, peeling, chopping and cutting, and ensuring the freshness of food and ingredients.

They also help in cooking simple dishes, like salads and desserts, under the guidance of cooks or chefs.

Kitchen Hands often handle the cleaning responsibilities in the kitchen.

This may include washing dishes and cookware, cleaning appliances, work surfaces, floors and walls, and removing trash.

In addition to these tasks, Kitchen Hands may also be required to help with receiving and storing supplies, checking deliveries for quality, and maintaining inventory.

They work closely with the rest of the kitchen team to ensure that the kitchen operations run smoothly and efficiently, and that the food prepared meets the establishment’s quality standards.

The role requires individuals to be quick, attentive, and able to withstand the high-pressure and fast-paced environment of a commercial kitchen.

 

Kitchen Hand Qualifications and Skills

A kitchen hand requires a blend of practical skills, attention to detail and a hard-working attitude.

Some key qualifications and skills include:

• Physical stamina and endurance to stand and walk for extended periods, as well as the ability to lift heavy kitchen equipment and supplies
• Basic knowledge of food safety and hygiene rules in a kitchen setting to ensure all food is prepared and stored correctly
• Attention to detail to thoroughly clean kitchen areas, utensils, and equipment, ensuring a sanitized and tidy work environment
• Time management skills to complete tasks in a fast-paced kitchen environment in an efficient and timely manner
• Good communication skills to effectively interact with other staff members and understand instructions
• Ability to work under pressure during busy periods, handling multiple tasks simultaneously with minimal supervision
• Teamwork skills to work cooperatively with kitchen staff to ensure the smooth running of operations
• Flexibility to work in shifts, during weekends, and holidays as the hospitality industry often requires

 

Kitchen Hand Experience Requirements

Kitchen Hands typically start with little to no experience, learning their skills on the job.

However, some may have gained experience through part-time roles or internships in the food service industry, including fast food restaurants and cafeterias.

Individuals seeking entry-level Kitchen Hand positions may have 1-2 years of experience.

They may have worked in similar roles such as a Dishwasher, Busser, or Food Prep Assistant, where they learned basic kitchen operations and cleanliness standards.

Kitchen Hands with 3 or more years of experience are generally considered experienced and may have developed specialized skills such as food preparation, inventory management, or equipment maintenance.

Kitchen Hands with over 5 years of experience have likely mastered a variety of kitchen tasks and may be ready to move up to more advanced roles like Line Cook or Sous Chef.

They may also have leadership experience, making them suitable for kitchen supervisory roles.

 

Kitchen Hand Education and Training Requirements

Kitchen Hands typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Practical experience in the kitchen, whether through previous employment or vocational training, is highly beneficial.

This role does not usually require formal education, however, some individuals may choose to attend culinary schools or hospitality courses to boost their skills and increase employment opportunities.

Several vocational schools and community colleges offer courses in food handling and safety, which would be beneficial for kitchen hand roles.

Most of the training is on-the-job, learning from experienced chefs and other kitchen staff.

Some Kitchen Hands may choose to obtain certifications in areas such as food safety, basic cooking skills or health and hygiene.

While not mandatory, these certifications can provide a competitive edge and demonstrate a commitment to the profession.

Also, excellent hand-eye coordination and physical stamina are essential for this role.

 

Kitchen Hand Salary Expectations

A Kitchen Hand can expect to earn an average wage of $12.08 (USD) per hour.

However, actual earnings can vary greatly based on factors such as experience, location, and the specific restaurant or hospitality establishment they work for.

 

Kitchen Hand Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Kitchen Hand need?

A Kitchen Hand should have excellent hand-eye coordination for handling and preparing food and using kitchen utensils.

Good physical stamina for standing and moving during long shifts is also crucial.

They should be able to work in a fast-paced environment, be detail-oriented, and follow health and safety procedures.

Basic knowledge of food preparation and hygiene is also beneficial.

 

Do Kitchen Hands need any formal qualifications?

Typically, Kitchen Hands do not need formal qualifications as most skills are learned on the job.

However, some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent.

A certificate in food safety might be beneficial and in some cases required, depending on the regulations of the region.

 

What should you look for in a Kitchen Hand resume?

A Kitchen Hand’s resume should show previous experience in a kitchen or similar environment.

It should also highlight their ability to work as part of a team, handle food safely, and maintain a clean and organized workspace.

Any certifications related to food safety or hygiene are also a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Kitchen Hand?

A good Kitchen Hand is reliable, punctual, and able to work efficiently under pressure.

They should have a positive attitude and be willing to take on a variety of tasks.

Being a good team player is important, as they will need to work closely with cooks and other kitchen staff.

A good Kitchen Hand also respects hygiene and safety regulations.

 

What are the daily duties of a Kitchen Hand?

On a typical day, a Kitchen Hand starts by checking and stocking the kitchen with necessary supplies.

They then assist chefs in prepping food, which might include washing, peeling, and chopping vegetables, or preparing meats.

During service times, they may assist in plating food, washing dishes, and cleaning the kitchen.

They also take care of food waste and other disposals at the end of the day.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Kitchen Hand?

The hiring process for a Kitchen Hand can be challenging depending on the restaurant’s needs and the candidate’s skills and experience.

Due to the physical demands and fast-paced nature of the job, it may be hard to find individuals who are willing and able to take on the role.

But with a competitive salary and good working conditions, hiring can be easier.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve pulled back the apron on what it truly means to be a Kitchen Hand.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about washing dishes.

It’s about becoming a crucial cog in the culinary machine, one cleaned pot at a time.

With our trusty Kitchen Hand job description template and real-life examples, you’re all set to take a step forward.

But why stop now?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted listings or sharpening your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every clean dish is a part of the bigger culinary journey.

Let’s cook that future. Together.

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