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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Manager

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$54K - $81K/yr

Assistant Manager: This position oversees all aspects of running a retail/food location • Hiring ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Manager

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$54K - $74K/yr

Assistant Manager: This position oversees all aspects of running a retail/food location • Hiring ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Manager

Waverly, IA · On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

Assistant Manager: This position oversees all aspects of running a retail/food location • Hiring ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Manager

Nashua, IA · On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

Assistant Manager: This position oversees all aspects of running a retail/food location • Hiring ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Manager

Janesville, IA · On-site

$50K - $73K/yr

Assistant Manager: This position oversees all aspects of running a retail/food location • Hiring ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Waterloo Assistant Managers

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$54K - $81K/yr

Assistant Management positions in the Waterloo area Shift: Variable Leadership Experience: 1-3 ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Store Manager

Readlyn, IA · On-site

$44K - $67K/yr

Assistant Manager: This position oversees all aspects of running a retail/food location • Hiring ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Store Manager

Jesup, IA · On-site

$44K - $67K/yr

Assistant Manager: This position oversees all aspects of running a retail/food location • Hiring ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Store Manager

Independence, IA · On-site

$44K - $67K/yr

Assistant Manager: This position oversees all aspects of running a retail/food location • Hiring ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Store Manager

Evansdale, IA · On-site

$54K - $81K/yr

Assistant Manager: This position oversees all aspects of running a retail/food location • Hiring ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

Kwik Trip, Inc.

Assistant Store Manager

Shell Rock, IA · On-site

$44K - $67K/yr

Assistant Manager: This position oversees all aspects of running a retail/food location • Hiring ... work in the kitchen • Food safety • Must be willing to work in the kitchen • Ordering ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsKitchen JobsKitchen Assistant JobsKitchen Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA

Kitchen Assistant information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen assistant in Waterloo, IA is $15.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a kitchen assistant a good first job?

A kitchen assistant is often a suitable first job because it provides basic skills such as food preparation, cleaning, and teamwork. It typically requires minimal prior experience and can help develop work ethic and time management in a fast-paced environment.

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 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 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.

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 qualifications are needed to be a kitchen assistant?

Kitchen assistants typically do not require formal qualifications but should have basic cooking skills, good hygiene, and the ability to follow safety procedures. Some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, and relevant experience or certifications in food safety can be advantageous.

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 do you do as a kitchen assistant?

A kitchen assistant helps with food preparation, cleaning, and maintaining the kitchen environment. They may wash dishes, organize supplies, and assist chefs or cooks as needed, often working in a fast-paced setting. Basic food safety and hygiene knowledge are important for this role.

How to work as a kitchen assistant?

To work as a kitchen assistant, you should be able to follow safety and hygiene standards, assist with food preparation and cleaning, and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Basic skills such as organization, teamwork, and knowledge of kitchen tools are important, and some positions may require food safety certifications. Flexibility with shifts and physical stamina are also beneficial for this role.
More about Kitchen Assistant jobs
What job categories do people searching Kitchen Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Kitchen Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Kitchen Assistant jobs? Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Kitchen Assistant job openings:
Kitchen Assistant jobs near you

Restaurant Team Members (Cashiers & Kitchen) - Arby's

LV Petroleum

Holland, IA • On-site

$11 - $14.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

TA Travel Center proudly operates Arby's locations within our network of travel centers, offering delicious roast beef sandwiches and other quality food options to our valued customers. We are currently seeking enthusiastic Restaurant Team Members (Cashiers and Kitchen) to join the Arby's team and provide excellent service in a fast-paced setting.
WALK-IN INTERVIEWS: Held weekdays from 11am - 4pm inside our travel center located at 16250 N AVE, HOLLAND, IA.
Job Overview:
As a Team Member at Arby's, you will be the gateway to customer satisfaction. Your primary responsibilities will include taking customer orders, processing transactions, and ensuring a welcoming environment. A positive attitude and a commitment to adapting to a fast-paced environment will be essential for success in this role.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Customer Service: Greet customers with enthusiasm, take their orders accurately, and answer any questions they may have about the menu.
  • Transaction Management: Efficiently process cash, credit, and debit transactions using the Point of Sale (POS) system.
  • Maintain Cleanliness: Ensure that the cashier station and dining areas are clean and organized to provide a pleasant atmosphere.
  • Team Support: Work collaboratively with kitchen staff to ensure orders are filled correctly and in a timely manner.
  • Inventory Monitoring: Assist in checking stock levels and communicate restocking needs to management.

If you are passionate about food and customer service and enjoy working in a team-oriented atmosphere, we would love to have you on the Arby's team at TA Travel Center!
Requirements
Experience: Previous cashier or customer service experience is preferred but not required.
Skills: Strong numerical and cash-handling skills.
Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills to interact effectively with customers and teammates.
Reliability: Must be dependable and flexible, able to work various shifts that include evenings and weekends.
Team Player: Ability to work effectively in a team environment while maintaining a positive attitude.
Benefits
  • Weekly Pay
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

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