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Culinary Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Culinary Aide

Robins, IA · On-site

$14/hr

Employee assistance programs Position Summary Position Summary The Culinary Aide supports the ... Key Responsibilities Resident Dining Experience * Assist with plating and serving meals according ...

Culinary Aide

Robins, IA · On-site

$14/hr

Employee assistance programs Position Summary Position Summary The Culinary Aide supports the ... Key Responsibilities Resident Dining Experience * Assist with plating and serving meals according ...

Culinary Aide

Robins, IA · On-site

$14/hr

Employee assistance programs Position Summary Position Summary The Culinary Aide supports the ... Key Responsibilities Resident Dining Experience * Assist with plating and serving meals according ...

Culinary Aide - Full Time

Nashua, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $17/hr

Culinary Aide Cornerstone Management oversees multiple Assisted Living communities dedicated to ... Support and direct Wait Staff as needed; assist with training and scheduling. * Ensure compliance ...

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Culinary Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$17

$31

How much do culinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for culinary assistant in Iowa is $17.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a culinary assistant?

A culinary assistant is responsible for aiding the head chef or kitchen manager in a restaurant or culinary training center for students. In this career, your job duties include ensuring that the kitchen remains clean, assisting with food preparation, and ensuring all cooking equipment is in proper working order. The qualifications for a career as a culinary assistant include a high school diploma and additional training in the culinary arts. This can include formal degrees from culinary schools or vocational training from trade schools. You need strong organizational skills, a passion for food, and excellent attention to detail.

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

To thrive as a Culinary Assistant, you need a solid understanding of food safety, basic cooking techniques, and kitchen operations, typically supported by a high school diploma or culinary coursework. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications (like ServSafe), and inventory management systems is common. Strong teamwork, time management, and communication skills help Culinary Assistants excel in fast-paced environments. These abilities ensure efficient food preparation, uphold safety standards, and support smooth kitchen operations.

What are some common challenges faced by culinary assistants in a fast-paced kitchen environment?

Culinary Assistants often face the challenge of multitasking under pressure, especially during busy meal services. They need to maintain high standards of food safety and cleanliness while quickly preparing ingredients and supporting chefs. Adapting to sudden changes in menu orders and working efficiently with team members are also frequent demands. Successful Culinary Assistants develop strong organizational skills and the ability to communicate effectively with the kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Culinary Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectCulinary AssistantKitchen Helper
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require food safety certificationTypically no formal credentials required
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesFood prep areas, kitchens, cafeterias
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting chefs, preparing ingredients, following recipesBasic food prep, cleaning, assisting with setup

Both roles support kitchen operations, but Culinary Assistants often have more specialized responsibilities and may require certifications. Kitchen Helpers typically perform basic tasks and support daily kitchen functions. The choice depends on experience and career goals in the culinary industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Culinary jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Culinary jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Culinary Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Culinary Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Culinary Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Culinary Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Culinary Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Culinary Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Culinary Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,026 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Culinary Aide

Emery Place

Robins, IA • On-site

$14/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

At Better Living, we believe every stage of life should be filled with purpose, dignity, and joy.
We're not just a senior living management company-we're a team driven by compassion, grounded in hospitality, and committed to doing what's right for residents, families, and staff. Our communities are built on meaningful connections, personalized support, and everyday moments that matter.
This is senior living, only better.
Benefits:

  • Compensation: $14.00 per hour
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • 401 (K) matching
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Employee assistance programs
Position Summary
Position Summary The Culinary Aide supports the dining team in creating a positive, welcoming, and homelike experience for residents. This role assists with meal preparation, service, and kitchen operations while upholding high standards of hospitality, cleanliness, and resident care. The ideal candidate is dependable, friendly, and committed to supporting a team that makes mealtimes meaningful for our community. In this role, you will be responsible for preparing nutritious, appealing meals for residents in accordance with dietary needs, facility menus, and food safety standards. This role plays a key part in maintaining resident health and satisfaction through high-quality food service.
Key Responsibilities
Resident Dining Experience
  • Assist with plating and serving meals according to dietary needs and resident preferences
  • Provide warm, attentive service during mealtimes
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting dining environment before, during, and after service
Food Preparation & Support
  • Perform basic food prep tasks such as washing, chopping, portioning, and assembling items
  • Follow all food safety and sanitation procedures
  • Assist with preparing meal trays and carts for delivery when needed
Kitchen Operations
  • Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment following established procedures
  • Keep workstations, storage areas, and equipment clean and orderly
  • Assist with receiving, rotating, and storing food and supplies
  • Report safety concerns or equipment issues promptly
Qualifications
  • Experience in food service, hospitality, or senior living preferred
  • Ability to follow instructions and work efficiently in a fastpaced environment
  • Strong communication and customer service skills
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs
  • Knowledge of safe food handling practices (training provided if needed)
Personal Attributes
  • Friendly, patient, and residentfocused
  • Reliable and punctual
  • Teamoriented with a willingness to help wherever needed
  • Committed to maintaining a clean, safe, and respectful environment

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.