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Cooking Helper Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

DYNAMIC EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS INC

Cook Helper

Dayton, OH · On-site

Cook Helper/Assistant Full‑time • Non‑Exempt • SCA Code 07130 Location • Dayton, Ohio ... cooking stations. • Maintain clean and orderly workspaces throughout the kitchen and dining hall.

University of Dayton

Cook's Helper

Dayton, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Cook's Helper Job No: 503571 Work Type: Staff Full Time (1500 hours or greater) Location: Dayton, OH Category: Bargaining Unit, AFSCME Department: Dining Serv - VWK - 800611 Pay Grade: 2 - Non Exempt ...

The University of Dayton

Cook's Helper

Dayton, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Cook's Helper Apply now Job No: 503571 Work Type: Staff Full Time (1500 hours or greater) Location: Dayton, OH Category: Bargaining Unit, AFSCME Department: Dining Serv - VWK - 800611 Pay Grade: 2 - ...

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Cooking Helper information

What are Cooking Helpers?

Cooking Helpers are kitchen staff who assist chefs and cooks by performing basic food preparation tasks, such as washing, peeling, and chopping ingredients, as well as maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen. They often help with setting up workstations, measuring ingredients, and ensuring that all necessary items are available for meal preparation. Cooking Helpers play a vital role in keeping kitchen operations efficient and organized, supporting the culinary team in delivering quality meals.

What is a cook's helper called?

A cook's helper is often called a kitchen assistant or food prep worker. They assist chefs by preparing ingredients, cleaning work areas, and supporting cooking tasks, often working under supervision in a restaurant or food service environment.

How to become a kitchen helper?

To become a kitchen helper, no formal education is usually required, but basic cooking skills and knowledge of food safety are beneficial. Employers often look for reliability, ability to follow instructions, and a willingness to work in a fast-paced environment. Gaining experience through volunteering or entry-level positions can improve chances of employment.

What is the difference between Cooking Helper vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectCooking HelperKitchen Assistant
Required CredentialsNone typically required, on-the-job training commonNone typically required, on-the-job training common
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering services
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food service industriesCommonly used in hospitality and food service industries
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with food prep, cleaning, basic cooking tasksSupporting kitchen staff, cleaning, prep work

Both Cooking Helpers and Kitchen Assistants work in similar environments and perform supportive roles in food service. While their responsibilities often overlap, Cooking Helpers typically focus more on assisting with food preparation and basic cooking tasks, whereas Kitchen Assistants may have broader support duties, including cleaning and equipment maintenance. Both roles are entry-level and require minimal formal credentials, making them accessible entry points into the culinary industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cooking Helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cooking Helper, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and basic inventory systems are commonly required. Dependability, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a team are valuable soft skills. These skills are important to ensure food is prepared safely and efficiently, supporting kitchen operations and maintaining high standards of hygiene.

What are some common challenges faced by Cooking Helpers in a busy kitchen, and how can they overcome them?

Cooking Helpers often work in fast-paced environments where multitasking and attention to detail are crucial. Common challenges include managing time efficiently, maintaining cleanliness while juggling multiple prep tasks, and communicating clearly with chefs and other team members. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, ask for clarification when needed, and prioritize tasks based on kitchen needs. Building strong teamwork skills and being adaptable to sudden changes in orders or kitchen workflow will help you succeed and grow in this role.

What does a kitchen helper do?

A kitchen helper assists with basic food preparation, cleaning, and organizing in a kitchen environment. They may wash dishes, chop ingredients, and support cooks to ensure smooth kitchen operations, often working under supervision and following safety standards.

How much is the salary of a kitchen helper?

The salary of a kitchen helper typically ranges from $10 to $15 per hour, depending on the location, experience, and establishment. Some positions may offer additional benefits or opportunities for advancement based on skills and performance.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Cooking Helper jobs in Ohio? For Cooking Helper jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooking Helper jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Cooking Helper jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Cooking Helper jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Cooking Helper job openings:
Cooking Helper jobs near you

Cook Helper

DYNAMIC EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS INC

Dayton, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Cook Helper/Assistant
Full‑time • Non‑Exempt • SCA Code 07130

Location • Dayton, Ohio
Schedule • Sunday through Thursday, 10am-7pm

Reports To • Food Service Manager

About the Role

The Cook Helper/Assistant supports the Food Service Department by assisting with meal preparation, cafeteria setup, sanitation, and daily kitchen operations. This role ensures students and staff receive quality meals in a clean, safe, and well‑organized dining environment.

This position is ideal for individuals with experience in:
• Food service or cafeteria operations
• Basic food preparation and kitchen support
• Sanitation, custodial, or utility support
• High‑volume or fast‑paced kitchen environments
• Customer service in dining settings

You will work closely with the Cook, Food Service Manager, and other food service staff to maintain smooth meal service, uphold sanitation standards, and support the center’s positive normative culture.

Your work directly affects the quality of meal service, dining hall safety, student satisfaction, and overall operational efficiency.

What You’ll DoFood Preparation and Service

• Ensure serving counters are stocked with salads, desserts, beverages, and other foods.
• Prepare coffee, tea, and other beverages.
• Assist the Cook with basic food preparation as directed.
• Set up cafeteria serving lines and serve meals to students and staff.

Kitchen and Dining Operations

• Replenish napkin dispensers, condiment stations, silverware racks, and plate racks.
• Assist with the storage, rotation, and inventory of food and supplies.
• Transfer food ingredients from storage areas to designated cooking stations.
• Maintain clean and orderly workspaces throughout the kitchen and dining hall.

Sanitation and Safety

• Clean equipment, appliances, food service areas, and dining room tables.
• Assist with dishwashing, drying, and organized storage of utensils and dishes.
• Ensure proper floor care and adhere to all sanitation procedures.
• Identify and report environmental, health, and safety concerns.

Student Support and Center Culture

• Supervise students assigned to assist in kitchen duties.
• Model, mentor, and support the center’s positive normative culture.
• Act as a responsible custodian of center property.
• Report violations of ethical conduct and suggest improvements to reduce waste.

A reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Minimum QualificationsEducation & Experience

• Six months of food service or custodial experience
• Cafeteria or institutional kitchen experience preferred

Certifications & Competencies

• Valid food handler’s permit for the state in which the center operates
• Strong organizational skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Computer proficiency
• Ability to provide positive customer service to students, staff, and visitors
• Ability to support cafeteria programs and activities
• Ability to promote and model the Career Success Standards (CSS)

Additional Requirements

• If the role requires driving: Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record
• Must provide I‑9 documentation to verify authorization to work in the U.S.
• Must successfully pass a post‑offer background check and drug test
• Ability to maintain a 75% or higher on the employee scorecard

Additional Information

This job description is not an exhaustive list of duties and may be adjusted as needed. Employees will be notified of any changes.

Dynamic Workforce Solutions values diversity, equity, and inclusion, believing that a wide range of experiences strengthens our work and our impact. We strive to provide equal access to opportunities, information, and support for all team members and the communities we serve.

EXPERIENCE EXTREME CUSTOMER SERVICE

Equal Opportunity Employer
• Dynamic Workforce Solutions is an equal opportunity employer/program, and auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.