Kitchen Assistant
Job Description:Kitchen assistants help chefs prepare food and keep the kitchen clean.
Job Category:What you will do:
Your day-to-day duties could include:
- supporting chefs in a specific work section
- washing, peeling and preparing food items
- using a variety of kitchen equipment such as mixers, special knives and cutters
- unloading deliveries
- organising the storeroom
- washing kitchen appliances, work surfaces, floors and walls
Skills:
You’ll need:
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- business management & customer service skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations (leadership skills)
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- to enjoy working with other people
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
- the ability to use your initiative (ambition)
- the ability to work well with your hands
Entry Requirements:
There are no set requirements, but it may help if you:
- have some basic kitchen skills, like food safety practices and the ability to prepare simple dishes
- have gained some work experience, like volunteering with the food service at a charity event or as a kitchen porter washing up
- have taken a short culinary course or workshop, to show your passion and build your skills
School Subjects
To become a kitchen assistant, you generally do not need specific GCSE subjects, as this entry-level position typically focuses on assisting with basic food preparation and kitchen tasks. However, having a few key GCSE subjects can still be beneficial and make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. Here are some subjects that can be helpful for a kitchen assistant role:
- English Language: Good communication skills are essential in any job, as kitchen assistants need to take instructions, communicate with other staff, and possibly interact with customers.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are useful for measuring ingredients, portioning food, and handling cash transactions if required.
- Food Technology or Home Economics: While not a strict requirement, having a background in food-related subjects can demonstrate an interest in the field and some basic knowledge of food safety and preparation.
- Design and Technology (Cooking): This subject can provide practical experience in food preparation techniques and kitchen equipment operation.
- Health and Social Care: Though not directly related to cooking, this subject can demonstrate an understanding of health and safety practices, which are crucial in a kitchen environment.
While specific GCSE subjects are not usually mandatory for a kitchen assistant role, employers may also consider personal qualities such as reliability, teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work shifts, evenings, weekends, and public holidays. If you’re based at a factory or catering business, your hours might be more regular than in a restaurant. Part-time, casual, or seasonal work may be available.
Your working environment will often be hot, busy, and noisy. You’ll spend most of your time working closely with other people.
You’ll usually be given a uniform to wear.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience and further training, you could become a trainee or junior chef.
You could also progress into management or move into bar work or food service.