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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

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Kitchen Assistant information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen assistant in Charleston, SC is $14.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $15.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

Is a kitchen assistant a good first job?

A kitchen assistant role can be a good first job as it provides basic skills in food preparation, cleaning, and teamwork. It often requires minimal prior experience and offers opportunities to learn about the food service industry and develop work ethic. However, it may involve early hours and physical activity, which should be considered by job seekers.

What do you do as a kitchen assistant?

A kitchen assistant helps with food preparation, cleaning, and maintaining the cleanliness of the kitchen environment. They may also assist with organizing supplies, washing dishes, and supporting chefs or cooks as needed. Good communication and basic food safety knowledge are important for this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a Kitchen Assistant?

To become a kitchen assistant, there are generally no strict formal qualifications required, but a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred. Relevant skills include basic food safety knowledge, ability to follow instructions, and good teamwork. Some employers may provide on-the-job training or require food hygiene certifications.
More about Kitchen Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Charleston, SC?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Kitchen Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC?

For Kitchen Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Kitchen Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Kitchen Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Kitchen Assistant jobs?

Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Kitchen Assistant job openings:

Kitchen Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Assistant job openings in Charleston, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,990 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Kitchen Assistant - Full-Time & Part-Time

One80 Place

Charleston, SC • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description

The Kitchen Assistant is responsible for preparing and ensuring the smooth operation of meal service in the Community Kitchen. This includes determining the type of meal being served, preparing, cooking, serving and post-meal cleanup. 


We serve around 120 meals during breakfast, lunch, and dinner on a serving line. We also prepare about 100 to-go meals for our community lunch. Experience working in a commercial kitchen is a plus! 


This position requires weekend and morning availability.


Full-Time and Part-Time positions available.

Requirements

  1. Experience in commercial, institutional, or buffet food service.
  2. Ability to work both independently and as an active team member.
  3. Excellent interpersonal, oral & written communication and organizational skills.
  4. Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
  5. Ability to read and interpret documents such as operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, recipes, menus, warning labels, packing slips and supply orders.
  6. Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds including heavy stock.
  7. Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
  8. Flexibility in scheduling.
  9. Ability to relate effectively with individuals experiencing homelessness.
  10. Ability to maintain professional demeanor while exercising judgment and discretion in work.
  11. Commitment to the mission, values, and goals of One80 Place.
  12. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and to respond calmly and effectively to changing environments.
  13. Ability to work cooperatively with staff, volunteers and clients to perform essential functions.  

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