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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Bongo Java World Headquarters

Kitchen Staff

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food preparation areas. * Assist in inventory management, including receiving and storing food supplies. * Follow food safety and sanitation ...

Bongo Java World Headquarters

Kitchen Staff

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food preparation areas. * Assist in inventory management, including receiving and storing food supplies. * Follow food safety and sanitation ...

Bongo Java World Headquarters

Kitchen Staff

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food preparation areas. * Assist in inventory management, including receiving and storing food supplies. * Follow food safety and sanitation ...

Bongo Java World Headquarters

Kitchen Staff

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food preparation areas. * Assist in inventory management, including receiving and storing food supplies. * Follow food safety and sanitation ...

Hooters

Kitchen Staff - Kingston Pike

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16/hr

A Hooters Kitchen employee is an integral part of the day-to-day operations at every Hooters restaurant. The Hooters Kitchen employee is responsible for consistently executing all Hooters kitchen ...

Hooters

Kitchen Staff - Merchants Drive

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$14/hr

A Hooters Kitchen employee is an integral part of the day-to-day operations at every Hooters restaurant. The Hooters Kitchen employee is responsible for consistently executing all Hooters kitchen ...

Hooters

Kitchen Staff - Kingston Pike

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16/hr

A Hooters Kitchen employee is an integral part of the day-to-day operations at every Hooters restaurant. The Hooters Kitchen employee is responsible for consistently executing all Hooters kitchen ...

Hooters

Kitchen Staff - Merchants Drive

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$14/hr

A Hooters Kitchen employee is an integral part of the day-to-day operations at every Hooters restaurant. The Hooters Kitchen employee is responsible for consistently executing all Hooters kitchen ...

Chick-fil-A

Kitchen Team Member

Jackson, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Stock kitchen inventory as needed * Keep the kitchen neat, clean and orderly at all times * Keep up-to-date with new products rolled out by Chick-fil-A * Work safely around kitchen equipment and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsKitchen JobsKitchen Assistant JobsKitchen Assistant Jobs in Tennessee

Kitchen Assistant information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$13

$18

How much do kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen assistant in Tennessee is $13.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.21 and $15.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a kitchen assistant a good first job?

A kitchen assistant is often a suitable first job because it provides basic skills such as food preparation, cleaning, and teamwork. It typically requires minimal prior experience and can help develop work ethic and time management in a fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges faced by kitchen assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Kitchen Assistants often encounter challenges such as working in fast-paced environments, maintaining cleanliness under time pressure, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously. Staying organized, communicating clearly with chefs and team members, and following food safety protocols can help manage these demands effectively. Building strong teamwork skills and being proactive about restocking supplies are also key to thriving in this role.

What is a kitchen assistant?

Kitchen assistants are support staff who help chefs and cooks in the preparation and organization of food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their duties often include washing and chopping ingredients, cleaning work areas and utensils, unloading deliveries, and ensuring that the kitchen operates efficiently. They play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene standards and ensuring that meals are prepared in a timely manner. Kitchen assistants typically work under the supervision of more experienced kitchen staff and may have opportunities to learn basic cooking skills. The role can be fast-paced and requires good teamwork and attention to detail.

What is the difference between Kitchen Assistant vs Kitchen Porter?

AspectKitchen AssistantKitchen Porter
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with food prep, cleaning, and basic kitchen tasksCleaning dishes, utensils, and kitchen areas; basic support tasks
Required SkillsBasic cooking knowledge, teamwork, organizationCleaning skills, physical stamina, attention to hygiene
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cateringSame as Kitchen Assistant, often in similar settings
CertificationsFood hygiene certificates often preferredFood hygiene certificates often required

Both roles support kitchen operations but differ mainly in responsibilities. Kitchen Assistants typically handle food prep and basic tasks, while Kitchen Porters focus on cleaning and maintaining hygiene. Both roles are essential in commercial kitchens and often require similar certifications.

What does a kitchen assistant do?

Kitchen assistants perform a number of cooking-related duties, including preparing food, retrieving ingredients from the freezer or other storage locations, and restocking food items. As a kitchen assistant, you may also perform hygiene-related tasks to keep the kitchen clean, such as wiping down equipment or cleaning counters after food preparation. There are usually no educational requirements for the career, but employers prefer that you have relevant work experience in a restaurant setting. Additional qualifications include the ability to follow oral instructions and health and safety procedures, as well as hand dexterity and cooking skills to peel and cut ingredients.

What qualifications are needed to be a kitchen assistant?

Kitchen assistants typically do not require formal qualifications but should have basic cooking skills, good hygiene, and the ability to follow safety procedures. Some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, and relevant experience or certifications in food safety can be advantageous.

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

To thrive as a Kitchen Assistant, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, dishwashing machines, and sometimes food hygiene certifications are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are important soft skills. These competencies ensure a safe, organized, and productive kitchen environment, supporting overall food quality and service.

What do you do as a kitchen assistant?

A kitchen assistant helps with food preparation, cleaning, and maintaining the kitchen environment. They may wash dishes, organize supplies, and assist chefs or cooks as needed, often working in a fast-paced setting. Basic food safety and hygiene knowledge are important for this role.

How to work as a kitchen assistant?

To work as a kitchen assistant, you should be able to follow safety and hygiene standards, assist with food preparation and cleaning, and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Basic skills such as organization, teamwork, and knowledge of kitchen tools are important, and some positions may require food safety certifications. Flexibility with shifts and physical stamina are also beneficial for this role.
More about Kitchen Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Kitchen Assistant jobs in Tennessee? For Kitchen Assistant jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Kitchen Assistant jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Kitchen Assistant jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Kitchen Assistant jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Kitchen Assistant job openings:
Kitchen Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,087 per year, or $14 per hour.

Kitchen Staff

Bongo Java World Headquarters

Nashville, TN • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

About the Role:

The Kitchen Staff plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the kitchen and the overall dining experience for our guests. This position involves preparing high-quality food items in accordance with established recipes and standards, while maintaining a clean and organized workspace. The Kitchen Staff will collaborate closely with chefs and other kitchen personnel to ensure timely service and adherence to food safety regulations. Additionally, this role requires a commitment to continuous improvement and learning, as staff will be encouraged to develop their culinary skills and knowledge. Ultimately, the success of the kitchen team relies on the dedication and efficiency of the Kitchen Staff in delivering exceptional meals and service.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous experience in a kitchen or food service environment.
  • Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with various cooking techniques and cuisines.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks.

Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and cook food items according to recipes and menu specifications.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food preparation areas.
  • Assist in inventory management, including receiving and storing food supplies.
  • Follow food safety and sanitation guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure timely and efficient service during peak hours.

Skills:

The required skills for this position include strong attention to detail and the ability to follow recipes accurately, which are essential for maintaining food quality and consistency. Time management skills are crucial, as Kitchen Staff must prioritize tasks to ensure timely meal preparation and service. Communication skills are also important, as staff will need to work collaboratively with chefs and other kitchen personnel to coordinate efforts during busy service periods. Preferred skills, such as knowledge of various cooking techniques, will enhance the team's ability to innovate and improve menu offerings. Overall, a combination of these skills will contribute to a positive kitchen environment and an exceptional dining experience for guests.