What does a Kitchen Assistant do?
Kitchen Assistants make sure that Cooks have everything they need before the meal preparation starts. They shop for food items, bring ingredients into the kitchen, peel and chop vegetables and fruit, cut steak, gut fish and pluck feathers from poultry. When the kitchen surface and workstations get dirty, it is the Kitchen Assistant who cleans them.
Sometimes the Kitchen Assistant prepares snacks, toast, soups, desserts and beverages under the supervision of a Cook. The Kitchen Assistant also maintains kitchen equipment and appliances and reports any that need repairs. They also ensure that Chefs and Cooks have a safe cooking environment.
Kitchen Assistant skills and qualifications
Kitchen Assistant needs a variety of skills and qualifications to perform their duties effectively. These skills and qualifications include:
- Excellent food preparation and cooking techniques
- Ability to use and maintain various stovetops and meat slicers
- Ability to decorate and garnish food
- Ability to wash, peel and cut vegetables
- Ability to prepare a wide range of kitchen ingredients
- Basic knowledge of table service
- Basic knowledge of kitchen hygiene and safety standards
- Attention to detail and interpersonal skills
Kitchen Assistant experience requirements
Most Kitchen Assistants gain experience on the job, but some employers prefer candidates who have previous experience in a similar or related role such as a Helper or a Kitchen Porter. Applicants must also have experience operating various kitchen equipment, preparing raw ingredients and sanitising the kitchen area. Experience in food decoration and garnishing is a plus.
Kitchen Assistant education and training requirements
A Kitchen Assistant position doesn’t require formal education, but many employers prefer candidates who have at least a GCSE level education. Basic numerical knowledge and writing skills are essential. Some employers require candidates to have a Level 1 Award in Introduction to Employment in the Hospitality Industry, Level 1 Certificate in General Cookery or Level 2 Award in Food Safety.
Kitchen Assistant salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary of a Kitchen Assistant in the United Kingdom is £8.75 per hour. Their salary varies depending on several factors, including their location, work demands, experience and the company.
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