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Entry Level Kitchen Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

Hyatt

Cook 1 - Entry Level - Banquets

Renton, WA · On-site

$23.50 - $30.55/hr

An entry level cook should have some professional knowledge or understanding of cooking ingredients and procedures. Entry level cook will work in the prep kitchen, single stations in the kitchen and ...

Happy Lamb Hotpot

Food Runner

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The Food Runner plays a key role in delivering food from the kitchen to guests quickly and ... Basic English communication skills preferred (bilingual is a plus) Work Experience * Entry-level ...

Urban Family Brewing Co

Dishwasher

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30/hr

This is a great entry level position for someone looking to learn kitchen skills and eventually move up to prep or line cook roles. Full-time and part-time shifts are available. Experience:

Urban Family Brewing Co

Dishwasher

Seattle, WA

$21.30/day

This is a great entry level position for someone looking to learn kitchen skills and eventually move up to prep or line cook roles. Full-time and part-time shifts are available. Experience:

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Entry Level Kitchen information

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How much do entry level kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level kitchen in Tacoma, WA is $16.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level kitchen job?

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level kitchen worker?

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.

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.

Can I work in an entry level kitchen with no experience?

Entry level kitchen positions often do not require prior experience and are suitable for beginners. Employers typically look for a willingness to learn, good work ethic, and the ability to follow instructions; basic skills like knife handling and food safety knowledge can be learned on the job. Certifications such as a food handler's permit may be required or preferred.

How to start working in an entry level kitchen with no experience?

To start working in an entry level kitchen with no experience, apply for positions such as dishwasher, prep cook, or entry-level cook, which often require minimal skills. Gaining basic kitchen knowledge, such as food safety and sanitation, and demonstrating a willingness to learn can improve your chances. Some employers may also offer on-the-job training or require a food handler's permit.

What is the easiest job in an entry level kitchen?

The easiest job in an entry-level kitchen is often a dishwasher or dish pit worker, as it requires minimal skills and involves basic cleaning tasks. These roles typically do not require prior experience and may have flexible schedules, making them accessible for beginners.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Tacoma, WA?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Tacoma, WA are:

What cities near Tacoma, WA are hiring for Entry Level Kitchen jobs?

Cities near Tacoma, WA with the most Entry Level Kitchen job openings:

Entry Level Kitchen jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Kitchen job openings in Tacoma, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,417 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

TTC KITCHEN HELPER

Seattle Indian Health Board

Vashon, WA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Seattle Indian Health Board rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
SIHB Core Competencies
Core Competencies are foundational commitments and skills that all SIHB staff are expected to develop. These competencies define common measures for performance that are applied to every role in the organization.
  • Commitment to Indigenous and Organizational Values: Everything we do at SIHB is centered on Traditional Indian Medicine. It is our responsibility to maintain cultural integrity in all that we do.
  • Accountability: All employees of SIHB effectively manage their own work and the work of their teams. We take ownership of our actions and decisions. We all strive to deliver the highest quality work and care, while respecting our teammates and relatives.
  • Collaboration: SIHB is a team-oriented organization. As team members, we share the responsibility of working toward a common purpose. We collaborate with our colleagues across the organization to deliver the highest quality of care and results in alignment with our mission, vision, values and Theory of Change.
  • Communication: We practice effective and clear communication with staff, relatives, teams and community. We demonstrate empathy among each other and with those we serve, and transparency in our decision making.
  • Customer Service Orientation: All employees of SIHB recognize the needs of the diverse community we serve. We put the needs of our relatives first by delivering the highest quality, professional, responsive, and innovative care. Our relatives come first and deserve the best.

Position Summary: The Kitchen Helper supports daily kitchen operations at a residential treatment facility by assisting with meal preparation, service, cleaning, and organization. This entry-level role helps ensure meals are prepared and served safely, efficiently, and in a welcoming environment for residents.
Organizational Structure/Reporting Relationships: Position is part of the kitchen operations team and has no direct reports.
Organizational Responsibilities
  • Hold Indigenous values and practices with respect and integrity
  • Hold yourself accountable to the highest standard by being resourceful, innovative, creative and solutions-oriented
  • Actively participate in organizational activities with the understanding that success is achieved through teamwork.
  • Recognize that communication is central to the organization's success and actively champion your words and actions to maintain respect for others, encourage constructive feedback, be open to share laughter and acknowledge differences in skills and opinions, all while keeping others' best intentions in mind.
  • At SIHB, we refer to our customers as Relatives. Our Relatives come first and deserve the best. Serve the needs of our Relatives first by delivering the highest quality, professional, responsive and innovative care.

Job Responsibilities
  • Assist with basic food preparation tasks such as washing, chopping, portioning, and assembling ingredients.
  • Support meal service by helping plate and serve food in a timely and respectful manner.
  • Prepare simple food items (e.g., salads, sandwiches, snacks) as directed by the cook.
  • Set up and break down meal service areas, ensuring cleanliness and organization.
  • Assist with special meals or events as needed.
  • Follow all food safety and hygiene procedures, including proper handwashing and use of gloves.
  • Assist with cleaning and sanitizing kitchen surfaces, equipment, and utensils.
  • Wash dishes, pots, pans, and kitchen tools promptly and thoroughly.
  • Take part in maintaining a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment.
  • Help complete basic cleaning tasks and checklists as assigned.
  • Assist with receiving and storing food deliveries, following proper labeling and storage guidelines.
  • Help keep track of basic supplies and notify the cook or supervisor when items are running low.
  • Organize food storage areas, including refrigerators, freezers, and dry storage.
  • Support efforts to minimize food waste by properly storing and handling food items.
  • Interact respectfully and positively with residents, staff, and visitors.
  • Help create a welcoming and supportive dining environment.
  • Follow direction from the cook or supervisor and work as part of a team.
  • Be responsive to feedback and willing to learn new skills.

Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred, but not required.
  • Ability to follow instructions and adhere to safety guidelines.
  • Willingness to learn basic food preparation and kitchen procedures.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and complete physical tasks (standing, lifting, bending).
  • Strong reliability, punctuality, and teamwork skills.

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