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Chefs Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Asbury Village

PT Chef Assistant/Line cook

Ames, IA

$17.50/hr

Green Hills Community is recruiting for a hospitality focused Chef Assistant to join our team! This role performs a number of kitchen activities including preparing entire meals, assisting with prep ...

Green Hills

PT Chef Assistant/Line cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Green Hills Community is recruiting for a hospitality focused Chef Assistant to join our team! This role performs a number of kitchen activities including preparing entire meals, assisting with prep ...

Green Hills

PT Chef Assistant/Line cook

Ames, IA

$17.50/hr

Green Hills Community is recruiting for a hospitality focused Chef Assistant to join our team! This role performs a number of kitchen activities including preparing entire meals, assisting with prep ...

Hotels

Executive Sous Chef

Coralville, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

Executive Sous Chef Experienced culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment ... Responsibilities include: * Assist in overseeing daily culinary operations across banquet ...

Marcus Hotels

Executive Sous Chef

Coralville, IA

$60K/yr

Executive Sous Chef Experienced culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment ... Responsibilities include: * Assist in overseeing daily culinary operations across banquet ...

Marcus Hotels

Executive Sous Chef

Coralville, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

Executive Sous Chef Experienced culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment ... Responsibilities include: * Assist in overseeing daily culinary operations across banquet ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

While living onboard, our chefs enjoy comfortable living quarters and a challenging culinary ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Fort Madison, IA

While living onboard, our chefs enjoy comfortable living quarters and a challenging culinary ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

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All JobsChefs JobsChefs Assistant JobsChefs Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Chefs Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$17

$24

How much do chefs assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for chefs assistant in Iowa is $17.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a chef assistant earn?

A chef assistant typically earns between $20,000 and $30,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those working in high-end kitchens can earn higher wages. Compensation may also include tips and benefits based on the employer and work schedule.

What is the difference between Chefs Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectChefs AssistantKitchen Helper
Required CredentialsBasic culinary knowledge, sometimes certificationsMinimal qualifications, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, assisting chefsSupport roles in kitchens, general cleaning and prep
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesFood service establishments, cafeterias
Search & Comparison IntentRoles assisting chefs with food prep and organizationSupport staff helping in kitchen tasks

Chefs Assistants typically have some culinary knowledge and work closely with professional chefs in busy kitchen environments. Kitchen Helpers usually perform basic support tasks like cleaning and prep, often with minimal qualifications. Both roles are essential in food service settings but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What qualifications do you need to be a kitchen assistant?

To be a kitchen assistant, no formal qualifications are typically required, but basic skills in food safety and hygiene are important. Some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, and previous experience in food preparation can be beneficial. Good communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also valuable.

What are some common challenges faced by a Chef's Assistant, and how can they be effectively managed?

As a Chef's Assistant, you may encounter challenges such as working under tight time constraints, adapting to fast-paced kitchen environments, and maintaining consistent food quality. Effective communication with chefs and team members is essential to ensure smooth workflow and prevent errors. Staying organized, being proactive, and continuously learning kitchen procedures can help you manage these challenges successfully while developing valuable culinary skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chef's Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chef's Assistant, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or culinary coursework. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, organized, and high-quality food preparation, supporting the kitchen's smooth operation.

What does a chef's assistant do?

A chef's assistant supports the head chef by preparing ingredients, organizing kitchen tools, and assisting with cooking tasks. They help ensure smooth kitchen operations and may handle cleaning, food prep, and basic cooking under supervision.

What is a chef's assistant called?

A chef's assistant is commonly called a kitchen assistant or culinary assistant. They support chefs by preparing ingredients, cleaning workstations, and assisting with cooking tasks, often requiring knowledge of kitchen safety and basic culinary skills.

What are Chefs Assistants?

Chefs Assistants, also known as kitchen assistants or commis chefs, support chefs in the preparation and cooking of food in professional kitchens. Their duties often include washing, peeling, and chopping ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, organizing kitchen tools, and sometimes helping with basic cooking tasks. Chefs Assistants are crucial for ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently. They often learn essential culinary skills on the job, making this role a common entry point for those interested in a culinary career.
What are popular job titles related to Chefs Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Chefs Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chefs Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Chefs Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
Chefs Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chefs Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,191 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
PT Chef Assistant/Line cook

PT Chef Assistant/Line cook

Heritage at Irene Woods

Ames, IA

$17.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Classification: Part-Time

Shifts: Thursday - Friday from 3:00pm-7:30pm, & Saturday - Sunday from 6:00am-2:00pm

Salary Expectation: $17.50/ hour

When you work at Green Hills Community, you have a front-row seat to the amazing life stories of the wisest people on earth. What's more, you are part of an extraordinary company - one that's investing in the future of senior living by investing in you. Don't just do a job. Be part of an extraordinary life!

Green Hills Community is recruiting for a hospitality focused Chef Assistant to join our team! This role performs a number of kitchen activities including preparing entire meals, assisting with prep of other meals or caterings, and service of menu items. This position is also responsible for overall cleanliness, stocking of work areas, and overall safety and sanitation of work areas.

YOU ARE EXCITED ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY BECAUSE YOU WILL...

  • Assist in preparation of all food served, following standard recipes and special diet orders as necessary in the Health Care Center.
  • Help with washing and sanitizing of pots/pans, dishes, utensils, carts, etc., as needed.
  • Cook to order for restaurant style menu and assist with catering functions as needed.
  • Supervise dietary aides, utility workers, host, or other staff on the shift.
  • Attend in-service training and education sessions, as assigned and by deadlines set monthly. 

WE ARE EXCITED ABOUT YOU BECAUSE YOU...

  • Can read, write, and follow oral instructions in English.
  • Have a basic understanding of modified diet knowledge and healthcare experience.
  • Are able to bend, stoop reach, and balance frequently throughout the day.

WE VALUE OUR EMPLOYEES AND SHOW APPRECIATION THROUGH...

  • Scholarships and Educational Assistance Programs, because we value the development of our team members and promoting from within.
  • Extraordinary Reward Points, because we value recognizing and appreciating our employees for their hard work.
  • Our comprehensive benefits, because we value health and wellness for you and your family.
  • Various employee-led Committees, because we value employee engagement and making your voice heard.
  • Uniform Allowances, because we value the work you do every day and want to help equip you to do your job to your best ability.
  • A free and confidential Employee Assistance Program, because we understand that life happens.

If you have any questions about this job posting, please call us at (515) 357-5000 or email us at HR@GreenHillsRC.com.

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