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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Saco, ME (NOW HIRING)

The Ridge RTC

Kitchen Assistant

Milton, NH · On-site

$12.25 - $15.25/hr

Job Summary Reports to the Food Services Manager, the Kitchen Assistant ensures the cleanliness and upkeep of the kitchens, dining areas, pantry, and other food storage areas, as well as assisting ...

The Ridge RTC

Kitchen Assistant

Milton, NH · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Job Summary Reports to the Food Services Manager, the Kitchen Assistant ensures the cleanliness and upkeep of the kitchens, dining areas, pantry, and other food storage areas, as well as assisting ...

Bowdoin College

Kitchen Prep Assistant

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$19.65/hr

Posting Details Posting Details Title Kitchen Prep Assistant Posting Number S01582JP Department Dining Service - Thorne Hall Job Summary Located in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin College boasts a student ...

York Hospital

Kitchen Float

York, ME · On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

The Kitchen Float is responsible for: * Assists in serving customers in the Café with a focus on customer service * Processing customer transactions on a point of sale system * Light food ...

York Hospital

Kitchen Float

York, ME

$13.75 - $17/hr

The Kitchen Float is responsible for: * Assists in serving customers in the Café with a focus on customer service * Processing customer transactions on a point of sale system * Light food ...

Healthcare Services Group, Inc.

Cook

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Adhere to food safety and sanitation guidelines; maintain a clean and orderly kitchen. * Assist with inventory management and ordering of supplies. * Interact positively with residents, staff, and ...

Healthcare Services Group, Inc.

Cook

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$23/hr

Adhere to food safety and sanitation guidelines; maintain a clean and orderly kitchen. * Assist with inventory management and ordering of supplies. * Interact positively with residents, staff, and ...

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Kitchen Assistant information

See Saco, ME salary details

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How much do kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen assistant in Saco, ME is $16.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.36 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 Saco, ME?

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

What job categories do people searching Kitchen Assistant jobs in Saco, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Kitchen Assistant jobs in Saco, ME are:

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

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

Kitchen Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Assistant job openings in Saco, ME 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 $33,555 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Kitchen Assistant

The Ridge RTC

Milton, NH • On-site

$12.25 - $15.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

About Altior Healthcare
Our family of services comprises three distinct mental health treatment programs, including a specialized program for US Veterans. With over 15 unique locations, we manage and support 500+ dedicated employees serving over 300 residential clients daily located across five states: California, Idaho, Maine, New Hampshire, and Texas.

Paradigm Treatment (West Coast) and Ridge RTC (East Coast) partner together under Altior, united by a shared commitment to providing exceptional mental health care. For over a decade, our core clinical and support teams have worked side-by-side, delivering compassionate, evidence-based treatment that changes lives.

As part of the Altior network, you'll find the stability of an established organization with the heart of a close-knit treatment community where every role matters.

Job Summary
Reports to the Food Services Manager, the Kitchen Assistant ensures the cleanliness and upkeep of the kitchens, dining areas, pantry, and other food storage areas, as well as assisting cooks as requested.

Responsibilities

  • Wash dishes, cups, flatware, pots, pans, and serving trays and utensils using dishwashers or by hand.
  • Maintain clean and orderly work and serving areas in the kitchens, dining areas, pantry, and other food storage areas.
  • Ensure all kitchen, dining hall, and pantry equipment is properly cleaned and sanitized.
  • Assist with basic food preparation, serving, and storage tasks as needed.
  • Help with bussing tables and removing trash, including bringing trash and recycling to the dumpsters and breaking down boxes.
  • At the request of the Food Services Manager, support the cooks and other staff with various tasks as required.
  • Comply with all safety laws and regulations and Ridge policies and procedures.

Qualifications

  • Ability to carry and handle equipment and supplies.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to walk up and down the stairs.
  • Knowledge of cleaning chemicals and supplies.
  • Familiarity with Material Safety Data Sheets.
  • Integrity.
  • Flexibility.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Reliability and punctuality.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package medical, dental, and vision.
  • 401k with 4% match.
  • Paid Time Off Programs including vacation, holidays, and illness.
  • Chef made meals onsite.
  • Professional trainings provided for development; continuing education assistance for clinicians.
  • Supportive clinical supervision and professional development.

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