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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Jay, ME (NOW HIRING)

Parker's Kitchen

Leader in Training - Store

Augusta, ME · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

As a Store Leader in Training at Parker's Kitchen, you will have the opportunity to develop and ... Leadership & Team Management: * Assist in leading, planning, and organizing store operations ...

Parker's Kitchen

Leader in Training - Store

Augusta, ME · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

As a Store Leader in Training at Parker's Kitchen, you will have the opportunity to develop and ... Leadership & Team Management: * Assist in leading, planning, and organizing store operations ...

Buffalo Wild Wings

Kitchen Team Member/Cook

Auburn, ME · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

KITCHEN TEAM MEMBER/COOK Know what it's like to be in the stadium on game day? Then you know what it's like to work at Buffalo Wild Wings. It's fun. It's fast-paced. We're at the top of our game ...

RSU 12, Sheepscot Valley

Assistant Cook

East Winthrop, ME

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Cleaning up and sanitizing kitchen. QUALIFICATIONS: Current State of Maine Criminal History Records Check Certification Serve Safe Certification Experience cooking for 100+ individuals per day ...

Boyne Resorts

Level 3 Cook

Newry, ME · On-site

$22 - $31/hr

Interprets banquet event orders for planning and execution in a timely, cost-effective manner. * Assist in recipe and menu development. * Assist with quality control and supervising other kitchen ...

Boyne Resorts

Level 3 Cook

Newry, ME

$22 - $31/hr

Interprets banquet event orders for planning and execution in a timely, cost-effective manner. * Assist in recipe and menu development. * Assist with quality control and supervising other kitchen ...

Lockwood Hotel

Food Runner

Waterville, ME · On-site

Constantly use safe and hygienic food handling practices * Assist staff with other duties as assigned by kitchen manager * Cleans kitchen before and after shift * Report any unforeseen circumstances ...

Charlestowne Hotels

Food Runner

Waterville, ME · On-site

Constantly use safe and hygienic food handling practices * Assist staff with other duties as assigned by kitchen manager * Cleans kitchen before and after shift * Report any unforeseen circumstances ...

RSU 18

Nutrition Support - BCS

Belgrade, ME · On-site

$19 - $20.98/hr

Assists in the cleaning and sanitation of kitchen facilities and kitchen equipment in accordance to Maine Food Code and established Standard Operating Procedures. Deadline: When a qualified candidate ...

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Kitchen Assistant information

See Jay, ME salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen assistant in Jay, ME is $15.39, 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 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 Jay, ME?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Jay, ME are:

What cities near Jay, ME are hiring for Kitchen Assistant jobs?

Cities near Jay, ME with the most Kitchen Assistant job openings:

Kitchen Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Assistant job openings in Jay, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,012 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Food & Beverage Lead - Kitchen Lead

Rusty Lantern Markets LLC

Waterville, ME • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Rusty Lantern Markets rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Kitchen Lead – Join Our Team

We’re looking for a Kitchen Lead who is passionate about food, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is ready to take ownership of daily kitchen operations while leading a team to success.

Company Overview

Rusty Lantern Markets is a growing chain of convenience stores across New England, renowned for our bright, spacious, and friendly atmosphere. We pride ourselves on delivering outstanding customer service, offering a variety of self-serve beverages, hand-made barista coffees, and fresh, ready-made food items.

Summary

As a Kitchen Team Lead at Rusty Lantern Markets, you will play an essential role in preparing delicious meals and ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality. This position is vital to our mission of providing fresh and convenient meal options to our customers.

Shift: Specific days of the week will be discussed during the interview, and will likely include weekends.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare and cook a variety of food items according to established recipes and standards.
  • Ensure all food safety and hygiene practices are followed during food preparation and handling.
  • Manage food prep, inventory and waste control.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen area at all times.
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure efficient kitchen operations.
  • Monitor inventory levels of food supplies and assist with ordering as needed.
  • Work closely with store leadership to drive sales and efficiency.
  • Provide exceptional customer service when interacting with customers at the counter.
  • Step in as a working leader - hands-on, energetic, and team-focused.
  • Support the overall goals of Rusty Lantern Markets by contributing positively to the team environment.

Perks & Benefits

  • Paid vacation and sick time
  • Birthday off
  • Holiday pay, plus earn floating holidays
  • 401K with employer match
  • Health benefits with generous employer contributions for employees and family
  • Annual raises
  • Store discount for all team members
  • Employee Referral Program

Qualifications

  • Proven experience in food preparation or cooking within a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also being self-motivated.
  • Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail in meal preparation.
  • Familiarity with menu planning is a plus but not required.
  • Experience in the food service industry is highly desirable.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently under pressure.

Required

  • Physically must be able to squat, bend, and turn as needed, lift 25 pounds, and stand for long periods of time.

If you are passionate about cooking and providing excellent customer experiences, we invite you to join our dynamic team at Rusty Lantern Markets—apply today!

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