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Entry Level Kitchen Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Jackson Township, NJ

$14.25 - $19/hr

Many roles at Bartley include on-the-job (paid) training , especially for entry-level kitchen roles * Similar positions (like dishwasher/housekeeping) confirm training is provided while working

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Entry Level Kitchen information

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$8

$15

$19

How much do entry level kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level kitchen in the United States is $15.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.
More about Entry Level Kitchen jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Kitchen jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Kitchen job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Kitchen jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Kitchen jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Kitchen job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,047 per year, or $15.4 per hour.
Kitchen Utility Aide/Dishwasher

Kitchen Utility Aide/Dishwasher

Life Care Companies, LLC

Lincolnshire, IL • On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description


Title: Kitchen Utility Aide / Dishwasher
Pay: $16.00-$17.00/hour (based on experience) + benefits and perks!
Job Status: Non-Exempt, Full Time Hourly
Schedule & Hours: Weekdays and rotating weekend, 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
At Sedgebrook, you'll join a friendly, supportive team in a clean, organized senior living community. No experience required--we'll train the right person who shows up on time and works hard.
The Kitchen Utility Aide / Dishwasher supports daily kitchen operations by keeping dishes, pots, and kitchen areas clean and sanitized. This is a great entry-level kitchen job with consistent hours.
Key Responsibilities
  • Wash dishes, pots, pans, and utensils.
  • Set up and maintain dishwashing and pot-washing areas.
  • Clean and sanitize kitchen equipment, floors, and work surfaces. and work surfaces.
  • Properly store clean dishes and kitchen tools
  • Take out trash and assist with general kitchen cleaning.

What We're Looking For
  • Reliable and dependable attendance.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
  • Ability to understand and follow instructions in English.
  • Must pass a background check and drug screen.

Benefits for Full-Time Employees
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance (effective the 1st of the month following hire)
  • 401(k) with company match
  • DailyPay - early pay access
  • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
  • Free meals during shifts
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Short- & Long-term Disability Insurance
  • Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Physical Requirements
  • Standing and walking for most of the shift.
  • Lift up to 35 lbs.
  • Push/pull carts weighing up to 100 lbs.
  • Frequent bending, reaching, and stooping.
  • Exposure to industrial cleaning chemicals and hot water.

Sedgebrook is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and a non-smoking, pet-friendly campus.
#sponsor

Life Care logo

About Life Care

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As an industry pioneer with more than a half-century of experience, making a difference in the lives of seniors has been our sole focus since day one. At LCS, we’ve designed a dedicated family of companies to help fulfill your community’s mission. This structure allows us to develop and share expertise across our company to deliver innovative solutions to seniors and their communities. We are guided by five principles to ensure that every company decision is made with integrity and for the good of the seniors we serve. Our guiding principles: We serve the customer, first and foremost. We deal honestly and fairly, with integrity and openness. We maintain a long-term perspective. We are diligent and persevering. We are interconnected and interdependent.

Industry

Outpatient health care

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1971

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