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Entry Level Kitchen Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Performs routine assignments in cafeteria, kitchen, or patient tray line, such as: serves food from ... This is an entry-level food service position. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS: Must be 18 years or older ...

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Performs routine assignments in cafeteria, kitchen, or patient tray line, such as: serves food from ... This is an entry-level food service position. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS: Must be 18 years or older ...

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Performs routine assignments in cafeteria, kitchen, or patient tray line, such as: serves food from ... This is an entry-level food service position. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS: Must be 18 years or older ...

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Performs routine assignments in cafeteria, kitchen, or patient tray line, such as: serves food from ... This is an entry-level food service position. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS: Must be 18 years or older ...

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Performs routine assignments in cafeteria, kitchen, or patient tray line, such as: serves food from ... This is an entry-level food service position. * This position is 10:30am - 7:00pm Monday - Friday ...

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Performs routine assignments in cafeteria, kitchen, or patient tray line, such as: serves food from ... This is an entry-level food service position. * This position is 10:30am - 7:00pm Monday - Friday ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Davenport, IA

$14/hr

Working in the Kitchen at Raising Cane's is a fun and fast paced environment. Crank up the music ... We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Johnston, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Working in the Kitchen at Raising Cane's is a fun and fast paced environment. Crank up the music ... We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Davenport, IA · On-site

$14/hr

Working in the Kitchen at Raising Cane's is a fun and fast paced environment. Crank up the music ... We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Johnston, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Working in the Kitchen at Raising Cane's is a fun and fast paced environment. Crank up the music ... We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Dinner/Close Shift

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Working in the Kitchen at Raising Cane's is a fun and fast paced environment. Crank up the music ... We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ...

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Entry Level Kitchen information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do entry level kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level kitchen in Iowa is $14.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $15.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to work in a kitchen with no experience?

Entry level kitchen positions often require minimal experience and focus on basic tasks such as food prep, cleaning, and dishwashing. Demonstrating a willingness to learn, good work ethic, and the ability to follow instructions can help you get started; some employers may also provide on-the-job training. Having basic knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation is beneficial.

What is the difference between Entry Level Kitchen vs Line Cook?

AspectEntry Level KitchenLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary trainingSimilar credentials; some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentFast-paced kitchen, assisting with prep and basic tasksCooking on the line, preparing dishes during service
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position in restaurants, hotels, cateringMid-level position in kitchens, often requiring some experience

Entry Level Kitchen roles focus on basic kitchen tasks and prep work, serving as an introduction to culinary work. Line Cooks are more experienced, responsible for cooking dishes during service. Both roles share similar credentials and work environments, but Line Cooks typically require more skills and experience.

What is the easiest job in a kitchen?

Entry-level kitchen jobs such as dishwashing or prep cook are generally considered the easiest, as they involve basic tasks like cleaning dishes or preparing ingredients. These roles typically require minimal experience and skills, making them accessible for beginners in a kitchen environment.

What is an entry level kitchen job?

An entry level kitchen job is a position suitable for individuals with little or no prior experience working in a kitchen environment. These roles often include tasks such as food preparation, cleaning, and basic cooking, and may require basic skills, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work in a fast-paced setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Kitchen Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Kitchen Worker, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety guidelines, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, sanitation procedures, and sometimes a food handler’s certification are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to follow instructions are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, maintain food safety standards, and support a positive working environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level kitchen staff and how can they be overcome?

Entry level kitchen staff often face challenges such as working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and learning to follow strict food safety protocols. It's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and be open to feedback from more experienced colleagues. Consistent practice, asking questions when unsure, and being adaptable can help new team members quickly build confidence and improve their performance.

Which kitchen position is an entry level role?

An entry-level kitchen position is typically a line cook, prep cook, or dishwasher. These roles usually require minimal experience, focus on basic food preparation skills, and often do not require formal certifications. They serve as starting points for those seeking to build a career in culinary work.

What are entry level kitchen jobs?

Entry level kitchen jobs are positions in restaurant or food service kitchens that require little to no previous experience. Common roles include dishwasher, prep cook, or kitchen assistant. These jobs involve basic tasks such as washing dishes, prepping ingredients, cleaning, and assisting chefs or cooks. Entry level kitchen jobs are a great way to learn fundamental kitchen skills, gain experience in the food industry, and advance to higher positions over time.
What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Kitchen jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Kitchen job openings:
Entry Level Kitchen jobs near you
Ankeny, IA - Runner - Sterling's (28353)

Ankeny, IA - Runner - Sterling's (28353)

B&B THEATRES GROUP

Ankeny, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

B&B Theatres rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 38 rated movie theaters

Job description

Our Mission & Core Values:
Each job at B&B Theatres is different and requires varied levels of experience, knowledge, and competency. Each position, however, contributes to the same goal: creating experiences for our guests that are magical, meaningful, and memorable.
Whether you are applying for a position as a frontline employee, a manager, a member of the payables team, facilities maintenance, kitchen staff or bartender, your end goal is the same.
We want all members of our employee family to find joy in their work and have fun as they work together to bring the magic of the movies and incredible entertainment experiences to our guests.
Your job is to fulfill your delegations as outlined here, sure, but also to embrace and represent our core values: family, fun, innovation, joy, and integrity. Knowing and living those values will bring professional satisfaction to you and ensure that our guests experience the magic they expect from B&B Theatres.
Please note: Our theatres are open 365 days a year, and holidays are often our busiest times. While we value family time, flexibility in scheduling is important.
Job Overview:
The Runner plays a vital role in ensuring efficient and seamless kitchen operations and exceptional guest service. This position is responsible for various tasks related to food preparation support, delivery, and maintaining a clean and organized dining environment. The Runner acts as a crucial link between the kitchen and front-of-house teams, contributing directly to guest satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist kitchen staff with basic food preparation tasks as directed.
  • Expedite food orders from the kitchen to guest tables accurately and efficiently.
  • Ensure all food is served according to established safety and quality standards, including maintaining proper temperatures.
  • Proactively check in with guests to address any needs, take additional orders, and offer beverage refills.
  • Promptly and efficiently clear tables of dirty dishes and utensils.
  • Professionally and courteously respond to guest inquiries regarding menu items and ingredients.
  • Communicate guest feedback and requests to relevant restaurant staff in a timely manner.
  • Ensure families with young children are provided with appropriate menus and dining implements.
  • Adhere to all hygiene and food safety regulations.
  • Maintain the cleanliness and organization of assigned work areas.
  • Perform other duties as delegated or directed by supervisory personnel.

General Qualifications:
  • Must be at least 16 years of age at the time of hire.
  • Previous experience in an entry-level restaurant position is preferred.
  • Demonstrated understanding of hygiene and food safety principles.
  • Positive and proactive attitude.
  • Strong multitasking and time management skills.
  • Ability to work effectively under pressure and collaborate seamlessly with kitchen and front-of-house staff.
  • Excellent verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to maintain composure and professionalism in a fast-paced environment.
  • Food handling certification may be required based on local regulations.

Essential Functions
  • Deliver food, beverages, and supplies from the kitchen to guest tables accurately and promptly.
  • Assist servers and kitchen staff by transporting items, refilling beverages, and clearing dishes as needed.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of service areas, including carts, trays, and storage areas.
  • Communicate effectively with servers, kitchen staff, and management to ensure smooth operations.
  • Stock and restock supplies as needed to support service flow.
  • Follow proper safety and sanitation procedures at all times.
  • Work independently or collaboratively to provide timely service and support guest satisfaction.

Physical Demands
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during a work shift, with limited opportunities to sit.
  • Frequent use of hands and arms to handle trays, plates, utensils, and other service items.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or reach as needed to access storage areas, service stations, or tables.
  • Ability to move, lift, stock, and transport boxes, trays, or supplies weighing up to 35 pounds safely.
  • Physical stamina to perform repetitive tasks and remain active in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work in environments with variable noise levels, temperatures, and lighting conditions.

These essential functions and physical demands are representative of the requirements necessary to perform this role. Employees must be able to carry out these functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

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