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Cooking Helper Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Trillium Family Services

Cook's Helper

Portland, OR · On-site

$19.44/hr

Are you ready to help children and families "Build a Brighter Future"? We are guided by the simple ... Hospital or Facility Cooking (Batch Cooking) Benefits (not all positions are benefit eligible ...

Amaro's Table

Line Cook

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Competitive salary Line Cook - Help Build Something Amazing at Amaro's Table (East Vancouver) Wages: $22-$30 including tips. Our award-winning concept, Amaro's Table, has proudly served the community ...

Parkrose Chateau

Be Seen First

Kitchen Helper/Dishwasher (Full-Time)

Portland, OR · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Such potential openings after training and proven performance development and skills include but are not limited to becoming a Cook, Sous Chef, or Executive Chef. Job Duties and Requirements: · Help ...

New

Aramark

Cook

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your ...

Aramark

Cook

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your ...

Aramark

Cook

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your ...

Aramark

Cook

Beaverton, OR

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your ...

Aramark

Cook

Beaverton, OR

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your ...

Aramark

Cook

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your ...

Aramark

Cook

Beaverton, OR

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Wilsonville, OR

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized work area. We are ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Sherwood, OR

$15 - $20.25/hr

... help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized work area. We are ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Portland, OR

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

... help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized work area. We are ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Hillsboro, OR

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

... help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized work area. We are ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Battle Ground, WA

$15 - $20/hr

... help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized work area. We are ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Vancouver, WA

$14.25 - $19/hr

... help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized work area. We are ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Oregon City, OR

$15 - $20/hr

... help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized work area. We are ...

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All JobsCooking Helper JobsCooking Helper Jobs in Portland, OR

Cooking Helper information

See Portland, OR salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do cooking helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking helper in Portland, OR is $16.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Cooking Helper jobs in Portland, OR? For Cooking Helper jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooking Helper jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Cooking Helper jobs in Portland, OR are:
Cooking Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooking Helper job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,587 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Cook's Helper

Trillium Family Services

Portland, OR • On-site

$19.44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Trillium Family Services rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Are you ready to help children and families “Build a Brighter Future”? We are guided by the simple yet crucial mission of building brighter futures with children and families.

If so, we have an exciting opportunity to join our dedicated dietary team at the Portland Metro campus

About the Opportunity:

  • As needed responsible for providing the complete preparation, service and cleaning of all items associated with the salad bar and for assisting the cooks.
  • Responsible for preparation and serving of meals for clients and on-duty staff.

Starting rate of pay: $19.44/hour starting

Schedule:

  • 40/hours week -Wednesday - Sunday - 7an to 5:30pm
  • Degree not required.
  • Current Food Handler’s Card required.
  • One (1+) year experience in preparing and cooking large quantities of food for groups of 50 or more preferred.
  • You are seeking meaningful work and career growth.
  • Good written and verbal communications
  • Great Customer Service
  • Preferred not required: Hospital or Facility Cooking (Batch Cooking)

Benefits (not all positions are benefit eligible)

  • 100% Employer Paid Medical, Vision, and Dental for Full Time Employees
  • 401k retirement plan matches – up to %6 match
  • Growth | Career track, continuing education, and professional development
  • Generous Vacation and Sick Leave
  • Free meals while on duty!
  • And more!
About Us:

We embrace diversity and equity in a serious way. We are committed to building a team with a variety of backgrounds, skills and views. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be in fulfilling our mission of “Building Brighter Futures with Children and Families”.

Our vision is to create safe communities where children are healthy, and every family has the opportunity for success. Families get the support they need – when and where they need it. There is a focus on prevention and health; organizations and systems are connected in a synergistic sanctuary community that generates: Non –violence, Growth and Change, Democracy, Emotional intelligence, social learning, Open communication, and Social Responsibility.

Our investment in the future of each child means that the next generation of Oregonians will have the skills to contribute meaningfully through employment, community service, and raising their own healthy families.

At TFS we believe that every child and family can have a brighter future, through the love we bring together we can make this possible. There is so much need for mental and emotional support at all levels of our communities.

To take a behind the scenes look our programs please visit our website at https://www.trilliumfamily.org/

Pay Equity: Please be advised that the pay range listed for this position is intended to provide general guidance on the earning potential for the role. However, actual compensation will be determined in accordance with the Oregon Equal Pay Law and will take into account factors such as the candidate's relevant experience and education. Candidates should expect that initial offers will be made within the listed pay range and may not be at or near the top of the range.

Consideration of candidates will begin as soon as 1/4/2025, and position may close without notice.

For physical demands of position, including vision, hearing, repetitive motion, and environment, contact the HR department. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position without compromising client care.

If you need accommodation to review the information and/or complete the application process, please contact the Human Resources Department.

Trillium Family Services is a drug free workplace. All final applicants will be subject to a criminal record identification check pursuant to ORS 181.536.727.537 and agency policy. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and Service Provider and support a culturally linguistically diverse governance, leadership, and workforce.

What Trillium Family Services employees say

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