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Chefs Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Bowdoin College

Kitchen Prep Assistant

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$19.65/hr

Under supervision of the Head Chef, Assistant Chef/Cold Food Production Coordinator, with guidance from Production Assistant Lead, the Kitchen Prep Assistant/Production Assistant is responsible for ...

Migis Hotel Group

Sous Chef

Westbrook, ME

$1.0K - $1.5K/wk

Sous Chefs tend to be some of our biggest coaches on property, this position is ideal for a Chef ... * Assist the EC to ensure the training, motivating, and evaluating of kitchen staff is done ...

Migis Hotel Group

Sous Chef

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$1.0K - $1.5K/wk

Sous Chefs tend to be some of our biggest coaches on property, this position is ideal for a Chef ... * Assist the EC to ensure the training, motivating, and evaluating of kitchen staff is done ...

EOS Hospitality

Sous Chef

Kennebunkport, ME · On-site

$63K - $65K/hr

As Sous Chef, you will assist in overseeing daily kitchen operations, supporting and mentoring team members, maintaining food quality and consistency, and ensuring all health and safety standards are ...

Parkhurst Dining

Sous Chef

Portland, ME

$22 - $24/hr

... levels. · Assist with Executive Chef in menu development, organization and completion of ... production sheets and execution of new recipe standards. · Assist Executive Chef in regular ...

Colwen Hotels

Sous Chef - Portland Harbor Hotel

Portland, ME · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

General Responsibilities * Assist the Executive Chef /management in overall kitchen operations ensuring maximum guest satisfaction * Assist in the planning, organizing, directing and control of the ...

New

Compass Group

SENIOR SOUS CHEF

Portland, ME · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

You will assist in the supervision, preparation, and cooking of various food items, developing ... Assists the Executive Chef with managing cost controls and control expenditures for the account

Compass Group

SENIOR SOUS CHEF

Portland, ME · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

You will assist in the supervision, preparation, and cooking of various food items, developing ... Assists the Executive Chef with managing cost controls and control expenditures for the account

Compass Group

SENIOR SOUS CHEF

Portland, ME · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

You will assist in the supervision, preparation, and cooking of various food items, developing ... Assists the Executive Chef with managing cost controls and control expenditures for the account

Unidine

SENIOR SOUS CHEF

Portland, ME · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

You will assist in the supervision, preparation, and cooking of various food items, developing ... Assists the Executive Chef with managing cost controls and control expenditures for the account

EOS Hospitality

Sous Chef

Kennebunkport, ME · On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

Support Chef/Culinary Director in creative, cost appropriate menu items based on market segments. Assist in the development and implementation of recipes and/or specials. * Lead training and ...

EOS Hospitality

Sous Chef

Kennebunkport, ME

$63K - $65K/hr

Support Chef/Culinary Director in creative, cost appropriate menu items based on market segments. Assist in the development and implementation of recipes and/or specials. * Lead training and ...

Benchmark

Sous Chef

Kennebunkport, ME · On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

Ensures all deadlines are met in food production based on production orders. * Assist the Executive Chef with inventory and ordering new supplies to maintain proper inventory. * Helps control food ...

Benchmark

Executive Chef (Task Force)

Kennebunkport, ME · On-site

$74K - $102K/yr

The Executive Chef is responsible for assisting with all food production including that used for ... dishes served * Assist in staff schedules, kitchen set up / break down, production, prep is ...

Inn By the Sea

Sous Chef

Cape Elizabeth, ME

$48K - $65K/yr

The Sous Chef is responsible for the preparation of high quality meals in accordance with company ... Supervise and assist kitchen staff in various culinary tasks, including chopping, slicing, dicing ...

New

Inn By the Sea

Sous Chef

Cape Elizabeth, ME

$48K - $65K/yr

The Sous Chef is responsible for the preparation of high quality meals in accordance with company ... Supervise and assist kitchen staff in various culinary tasks, including chopping, slicing, dicing ...

New

Blue Pig LLC

Cook Chef

Gorham, ME · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

We are seeking a Cook Chef to join our dedicated kitchen staff ... You will assist in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of meals in our professional kitchen.

Senior Lifestyle

Sous Chef

Gorham, ME · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

In this role you will assist in the oversight of daily operations in the kitchen and work with the Executive Chef to ensure the high-quality food products and kitchen cleanliness. * Prepare meals ...

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All JobsChefs JobsChefs Assistant JobsChefs Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME

Chefs Assistant information

See Portland, ME salary details

$12

$19

$27

How much do chefs assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for chefs assistant in Portland, ME is $19.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chefs assistant?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chefs assistant?

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 are some common challenges faced by a chefs 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 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 is the average salary of a chef's assistant?

The average salary of a chef's assistant typically ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 per year, 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 more. The role often requires basic culinary skills and the ability to follow instructions in a fast-paced environment.

What are popular job titles related to Chefs Assistant jobs in Portland, ME?

For Chefs Assistant jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chefs Assistant jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Chefs Assistant jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Chefs Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Chefs Assistant job openings:

Chefs Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chefs Assistant job openings in Portland, ME as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,511 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Kitchen Prep Assistant

Brunswick, ME • On-site

Bowdoin College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Bowdoin Collegeexternal

$19.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Title
Kitchen Prep Assistant
Posting Number
S01582JP
Department
Dining Service - Thorne Hall
Job Summary
Located in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin College boasts a student population of almost 2000. Our Dining Services Department makes everything from scratch and are consistently rated in the top 10 for college dining! We have our own butcher shop, bakeshop, and organic garden that all supply food to our two dining halls and three retail locations.
Bowdoin is seeking a Kitchen Prep Assistant/Production Assistant to join our team at Thorne Hall.
Under supervision of the Head Chef, Assistant Chef/Cold Food Production Coordinator, with guidance from Production Assistant Lead, the Kitchen Prep Assistant/Production Assistant is responsible for preparation of daily cold food items to recipe specifications. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Prepare ingredients for use in recipes for both hot and cold food production
  • Read recipes and prepare to specifications
  • Assist with set up, service, and clean-up of food serving line
  • Follow appropriate food handling and storage procedures
  • Serve food in serving line while adhering to portion control and serving procedures
  • Monitor and record refrigerator or freezer temperature readings
  • Assist with cold food production and assembly for catering functions
  • Operate cold food prep equipment
  • Provide routine and thorough cleaning of storage, cooking, serving, holding, dispensing equipment, and area. Empty trash. Assist in keeping the dining rooms neat and clean
  • Adhere to safety and sanitation guidelines, including related documentation
  • May operate computerized board checking system and perform other cash transactions
  • May assist in customer service functions

The work schedule for this position will be 12:30pm - 8:30pm Monday, Tuesday, and Friday and 12:00pm-8:00pm on Saturday and Sunday, with Wednesday and Thursday off.
Compensation:
  • The pay rate for this position is $19.65 per hour, and this role is eligible for overtime and shift/weekend differential
  • Shift Differentials: 10% for 2nd shift, 15% for 3rd shift, plus an additional $1.00/hour for weekend hours

Benefits and Perks:
  • Medical Insurance (Effective on date of hire)
  • Vision and Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance and Disability Insurance
  • $1,000 Employee Referral Program Bonus
  • Generous Retirement Plan - 10.12% annual compensation contribution (Eligible after 1 year of service and age 26 )
  • Accrue up to 10 day of vacation (1st year), 15 days (2nd year)
  • Accrue up to 12 days of personal/sick time
  • 17 Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave (After 1 year)
  • Access to many of the College's facilities including the gym and pool (Including household)
  • Free fitness and wellness classes
  • And more: https://www.bowdoin.edu/hr/benefits-perks/index.html

Education/Skills Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Current ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain within 6 months of employment)
  • Working knowledge of basic food preparation techniques and their application in catering and/or institutional settings.
  • Demonstrated reliability as well as neat and clean appearance
  • Ability to follow written and oral direction
  • Commitment to customer service
  • Ability to multi-task

Experience Requirements and/or Equivalents
  • Two years of food service or closely related experience
  • Prior experience with food preparation techniques and their application in institutional settings preferred

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications in this posting to be considered for hire.
Standard Work Days and Hours
  • This is a full-time, academic-year position, working 40 hours per week for 38 weeks per year (0.73 FTE). The role includes occasional overtime, weekends, holidays, and weather emergencies, as well as coverage during major college events such as Parents Weekend, Commencement, and Reunions.
    • The work schedule for this position will be 12:30pm - 8:30pm Monday, Tuesday, and Friday and 12:00pm-8:00pm on Saturday and Sunday, with Wednesday and Thursday off.

Employment at Bowdoin College is contingent upon satisfactory completion of applicable background checks including but not limited to: criminal records, educational verifications, driving records (when job-related), and/or credit history (when job related).
We regret that Bowdoin College is unable to provide visa sponsorship for staff positions.
#bcindeed
About Bowdoin
Bowdoin embraces diversity in all forms, and the College is home to talented students, faculty and staff-with a variety of racial, ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds; religious beliefs; and gender identities, among other factors.
We encourage applications from candidates committed to the support of an inclusive campus community and those who will enrich and contribute to the College's multifaceted diversity. We value a community in which individuals of all backgrounds are warmly welcomed and encouraged to succeed.
Founded in 1794, Bowdoin has maintained its commitment to the liberal arts for well over 200 years. Bowdoin's reputation as a preeminent liberal arts college rests on the excellence of its faculty, students, and staff; intimate size; strong sense of community; and connections to the people, history, and natural beauty of Maine.
Bowdoin's campus is situated in a beautiful natural setting. Located in Brunswick, Maine, a town of approximately 20,000, the College is a short drive from the Maine coast, twenty-five miles from Portland and 120 miles from Boston.
Shift
First Shift
Employment Category
Full Time Academic Year
FTE
0.73
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Pay Type
Hourly
Background Check Package Requirements
Support Staff
Is driving a vehicle (e.g. Bowdoin vehicle or off road vehicle, rental car, personal car) an essential function of this job?
No
Is a pre-placement physical required for this position?
Yes
Posting Date
08/28/2026
Applications Accepted Until
Open Until Filled
No
Type of Posting
Internal/External
Special Instructions to Applicants
If selected as a finalist, you will be required to submit information for three references, including name, email address, phone number and how you know the reference.
EEO Information
Bowdoin College complies with applicable provisions of federal and state laws that prohibit unlawful discrimination in employment, admission, or access to its educational or extracurricular programs, activities, or facilities based on race, color, ethnicity, ancestry and national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, marital status, place of birth, genetic predisposition, veteran status, or against qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities on the basis of disability, or any other legally protected statuses.

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