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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Porter

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Our most successful Kitchen Porters are: * Friendly * Dependable * Positive * Patient * Team-oriented * Service-minded * Compassionate * Willing to help wherever needed * Able to create a welcoming ...

Kitchen Porter

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Our most successful Kitchen Porters are: * Friendly * Dependable * Positive * Patient * Team-oriented * Service-minded * Compassionate * Willing to help wherever needed * Able to create a welcoming ...

Assistant Kitchen Manager

Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$5.2K/mo

As an Assistant Kitchen Manager your responsibilities would include: * Supervises and oversees the production of food * In conjunction with all management, enforces compliance with all employment ...

As an Assistant Kitchen Manager your responsibilities would include: * Supervises and oversees the production of food * In conjunction with all management, enforces compliance with all employment ...

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Kitchen Assistant information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen assistant in Fort Wayne, IN is $14.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $15.24 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Fort Wayne, IN?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:

What job categories do people searching Kitchen Assistant jobs in Fort Wayne, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Kitchen Assistant jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:

What cities near Fort Wayne, IN are hiring for Kitchen Assistant jobs?

Cities near Fort Wayne, IN with the most Kitchen Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Kitchen Assistant job openings in Fort Wayne, IN 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 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,451 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Kitchen Porter

Byron Wellness Community

Fort Wayne, IN โ€ข On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description

Who We Are

At Byron Wellness Community, our mission is to foster purpose-filled lives by focusing on the individualized strengths of our residents and team members. We believe in serving residents with compassion, dignity, respect, and kindness while creating a community where people truly belong. Our team members are guided by six core values:

  • Commitment
  • Communication
  • Compassion
  • Integrity
  • Passion
  • Respect

These values aren't just words on a wall. They shape how we care for residents and how we treat one another every day. ย 


Why Team Members Love Working Here

Our employees often describe Byron as a place with:

  • Strong commitment to the residents
  • Strong peer relationships
  • Pride in Byron
  • Improved staffing and operations
  • Belief in the vision of "One Team, One Standard"

Others mention teamwork, approachable leadership, and culture of helping one another. If you're looking for a workplace where people genuinely care, you'll find that here. ย 


What Kind of Person Thrives Here?

Our most successful Kitchen Porters are:

  • Friendly
  • Dependable ย ย ย ย ย 
  • Positive
  • Patient
  • Team-oriented
  • Service-minded
  • Compassionate
  • Willing to help wherever needed
  • Able to create a welcoming experience for residents and families


Benefits

Eligible team members may receive:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan
  • Vacation
  • Wellness
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Incentives and bonuses
  • Relaxed dress code


A Message from Our Team

If you're looking for a place where residents know your name, coworkers support one another, and your work has a meaningful impact every day, you'll find that opportunity here. If you're compassionate, eager to learn, and committed to serving others, we'd love to meet you.

Come help us create meaningful moments, one meal at a time.


Meals Are More Than Food

At Byron Wellness Community, meals provide comfort, connection, and enjoyment for the residents we serve.

Whether you're washing dishes, preparing ingredients, stocking supplies, or helping support meal service, your work plays an important role in creating a positive dining experience.

We're looking for someone who takes pride in their work, enjoys being part of a team, and understands that even behind-the-scenes roles make a meaningful difference.



What You'll Do

As a Kitchen Porter, you'll help ensure the kitchen operates safely, efficiently, and smoothly while supporting a positive dining experience for residents.

Responsibilities include:

  • Cleaning and sanitizing dishes, utensils, cookware, and kitchen equipment
  • Operating commercial dishwashing equipment
  • Maintaining clean and organized storage areas
  • Assisting with food preparation tasks such as peeling, chopping, and portioning ingredients
  • Stocking food and non-food supplies
  • Assisting with meal service and resident dining areas as needed
  • Removing trash and recycling materials safely
  • Maintaining kitchen cleanliness and sanitation standards
  • Following infection prevention and food safety guidelines
  • Using cleaning chemicals and equipment safely
  • Supporting dietary team members wherever assistance is needed
  • Participating in ongoing education and training opportunities

Most importantly, you'll help support an environment where residents enjoy safe, high-quality meals and meaningful dining experiences.



Job Type

Full-Time Opportunities Available

Every other weekend and rotating holidays required

Requirements

Required Qualifications

  • Must possess, as a minimum, an 8th grade education.
  • Must be at least 17 years of age or older due to requirement of handling knives
  • Must possess ServSafe Certification, or ability to become certified in specified time frame.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with individuals living with dementia, behavioral health challenges, developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, or other specialized populations.