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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Dayton, MN (NOW HIRING)

New Horizon Academy

Kitchen Assistant

Saint Paul, MN

$16.75 - $17.45/hr

We are seeking a Childcare Assistant Cook to join our talented and dedicated team at New Horizon ... Previous kitchen experience preferred, but not required. Love Making a Difference? You'll fit right ...

New Horizon Academy

Kitchen Assistant

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$16.75 - $17.45/hr

We are seeking a Childcare Assistant Cook to join our talented and dedicated team at New Horizon ... Previous kitchen experience preferred, but not required. Love Making a Difference? You'll fit right ...

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All JobsKitchen JobsKitchen Assistant JobsKitchen Assistant Jobs in Dayton, MN

Kitchen Assistant information

See Dayton, MN salary details

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How much do kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen assistant in Dayton, MN is $16.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.50 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 cities near Dayton, MN are hiring for Kitchen Assistant jobs?

Cities near Dayton, MN with the most Kitchen Assistant job openings:

Kitchen Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Assistant job openings in Dayton, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% 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 $33,784 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Kitchen Assistant

Independent School District 15

East Bethel, MN • On-site

$19.30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Nutrition Services
Date Posted:
8/26/2025
Location:
East Bethel Elementary School (K-5)
Date Available:
09/02/2025
Closing Date:
Open Until Filled
Application Procedure: To be considered for this vacancy, applicant must complete the on-line application process and indicate interest in this specific job number. Questions regarding this posting should be directed to Wendy Klobe, Nutrition Services Supervisor
Duty Days Per Year: 171 (school year)
Hours Per Day: 7.5 (6:30 am to 2:00 pm) BENEFIT ELIGIBLE
Type of Position: (X) Continuing ( ) Temporary
Salary: (A12 step 6) $19.30 according to the Nutrition Services Work Agreement
Immediate Supervisor of Position: Kitchen Manager
Qualifications:
Required qualifications:
  • High school diploma.
  • Must possess good math skills and communication skills (both oral and written).
  • Previous attendance must be good.
  • Foodservice experience.

Preferred qualifications:
  • School foodservice experience, assistant experience, cook experience, must be able to lift 50 pounds.
  • Ideal candidate will possess a positive attitude and provide excellent customer service to students, staff, and others while fostering an environment of teamwork with others in kitchen.
  • Attendance is an Essential function of the job.
  • Must be a collaborative team player, contributing to consistent environment in kitchen and have high customer service skills.

The kitchen assistant will assist each production kitchen with the increased volume due to the NEW free meals program starting next school year. The kitchen assistant will report to the Kitchen Manager at the assigned production kitchen, and will be the trained backup for the cook. When filling in for the cook, the kitchen assistant will timecard additional time and pay differential from A12 to A13 rate of pay. When staying late due to short staff in kitchen (not due to a cook absence) the kitchen assistant will timecard additional time at the A12 rate of pay.
Duties for kitchen assistant are but are not limited to:
  • Assist in receiving food deliveries and put items away. Must be able to lift 50# frequently.
  • Assist with inventory management by utilizing proper food marking and rotation in freezers, coolers and storerooms.
  • Assist with preparing food, assist with cooking, and serve food utilizing a variety of kitchen equipment including Combi Ovens, Warmers, etc.
  • Wash dishes; clean kitchen and assist organizing storeroom, freezer, and cooler areas daily
  • Back up for the cook position, will perform duties of the cook in their absence (could report as early as 5:45 am and possibly stay as late as 3 pm when needed)
  • Assist with maintaining daily production records for all lines
  • Assist with preparing daily ship out for food being prepared for shipout school(s), assist production records and assist with troubleshooting any issues regarding shipout.
  • Provide input to Kitchen Manager regarding participation, serving line staffing, menus, inventory, orders, etc.
  • Provide positive leadership by example to helper/servers & others in kitchen
  • Positively reinforce and contribute to the team environment in the kitchen and cafeteria
  • Other duties as assigned, including operating POS as needed, dishwasher and monitoring cafeteria

Job Description: Nutrition Services
Positions 1,020 hours or more per year are benefit eligible
Benefits offered for this position include:
  • Medical Insurance with district contribution for Single coverage or Family coverage
  • Dental Insurance with district contribution for Single coverage, Employee +1 coverage, or Family coverage
  • FSA Account- Flexible Spending Account
  • Long Term Disability Income Insurance
  • Life Insurance paid for by the district
  • PERA (Pension Plan): 6.5% employee contribution and 7.5% district contribution
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Retirement Plan 403(b) or Roth IRA
  • Floating Holidays
  • Sick Leave includes ESST
  • Vacation Pay
  • Longevity Pay
  • Retirement/Severance Package with Medical & Dental benefits offerings

The policy of the school district is to provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. The school district does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, sexual orientation, including gender identity or expression, age, family care leave status, or veteran status. The school district also makes reasonable accommodations for disabled employees.

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