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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Worcester, MA (NOW HIRING)

Chick-fil-A

Kitchen Assistant

Framingham, MA

$18 - $20/hr

Stock kitchen inventory as needed * Keep the kitchen neat, clean and orderly at all times * Keep up-to-date with new products rolled out by Chick-fil-A * Work safely around kitchen equipment and ...

Chick-fil-A

Kitchen Assistant

Framingham, MA

$18 - $20/hr

Stock kitchen inventory as needed * Keep the kitchen neat, clean and orderly at all times * Keep up-to-date with new products rolled out by Chick-fil-A * Work safely around kitchen equipment and ...

Pride

Pride Kitchen Crew

Ludlow, MA

$16/hr

Overview Join Our Team as a Deli Associate - Where Flavor Meets Fun! Are you passionate about food and love engaging with people? We're looking for Deli Associates who thrive in a vibrant store and ...

GPM Investments LLC

Pride Kitchen Crew

Ludlow, MA

$16/hr

Overview Join Our Team as a Deli Associate - Where Flavor Meets Fun! Are you passionate about food and love engaging with people? We're looking for Deli Associates who thrive in a vibrant store and ...

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All JobsKitchen JobsKitchen Assistant JobsKitchen Assistant Jobs in Worcester, MA

Kitchen Assistant information

See Worcester, MA salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen assistant in Worcester, MA is $15.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $16.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you be a Kitchen Assistant with no experience?

Yes, many entry-level Kitchen Assistant positions do not require prior experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training and look for basic skills such as reliability, teamwork, and a willingness to learn. Having a positive attitude and good hygiene can also improve your chances of getting hired without experience.

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 are kitchen assistants?

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 do you need to be a Kitchen Assistant?

Kitchen assistants typically do not require formal qualifications but should have basic literacy and numeracy skills. Relevant experience in food handling, cleanliness, and safety procedures is beneficial, and some employers may prefer food safety certifications such as a Level 1 Food Hygiene certificate.

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 cleanliness of kitchen equipment and work areas. They may also assist with serving food, organizing supplies, and following safety and hygiene standards. The role often requires good communication skills and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

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, attention to detail, and the ability to operate kitchen equipment are important. Some positions may require food safety certifications or prior experience in a kitchen setting.
More about Kitchen Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Worcester, MA? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Worcester, MA are:
What job categories do people searching Kitchen Assistant jobs in Worcester, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Kitchen Assistant jobs in Worcester, MA are:
What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Kitchen Assistant jobs? Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Kitchen Assistant job openings:
Kitchen Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Assistant job openings in Worcester, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,978 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Kitchen Assistant (Part-Time)

YMCA Of Central Massachusetts

Southbridge, MA • On-site

$16/hr

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Description

Under the supervision of the Food Service Manager, the Kitchen Assistant helps prepare nutritious meals, maintains a clean and sanitary kitchen environment, and supports daily food service operations in compliance with CACFP standards. This role also serves as a substitute for meal prep and service when needed.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Food Prep Support: assist with washing, peeling, cutting, and preparing fruits and other ingredients according to CACFP standards.
  • Meal Cart Preparation: prepare breakfast, lunch, and snack carts for classroom delivery.
  • Dishwashing & Cleaning: collect meal carts, wash dishes, load/unload the dishwasher, and maintain sanitation of all workstations.
  • Sanitation Compliance: follow all food safety protocols to prevent contamination and maintain a clean, organized kitchen.
  • Team Collaboration: work closely with kitchen staff to ensure timely and smooth meal service.
  • Health & Safety Adherence: follow all YMCA, state, and federal regulations related to food handling and kitchen operations.
  • Supply Support: assist with organizing supplies, restocking stations, and putting away deliveries.
  • General Cleaning: sweep, mop, remove trash, and maintain overall kitchen cleanliness.
  • Substitute Coverage: provide coverage for the Food Service Manager or other Kitchen Assistants during absences.
  • Complete additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • ServSafe Certification is strongly preferred; must be obtained within 30 days of hire if not already held.
  • Food Safety Knowledge - Understanding of safe food handling, sanitation standards, & personal hygiene.
  • Experience - Prior experience in food service, restaurant work, catering, or school cafeteria preferred; willingness to learn is essential.
  • Physical Ability - Able to stand for extended periods and lift/move up to 50 pounds.
  • Teamwork Skills - Positive attitude, strong communication, and ability to support colleagues in a semi fast paced environment.
  • Multitasking - Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
  • Basic Kitchen Knowledge - Familiarity with bussing, food prep, cleaning procedures, and general kitchen operations.


Job Type: Part-Time (Non-Exempt)

Schedule: 8-16 hours per week (hours may vary, please let us know your availability)

Pay: $16.00/hour. Plus, access to YMCA facilities for all YMCA Employees, Employee Assistance Program and Sick Leave.


If you are interested and want to apply, please submit your online application today!


The Y: We're for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

OUR CULTURE: Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are a safe place for children, teens and vulnerable populations, and all staff, regardless of their role within the organization, are required to ensure the trust that families place in us is earned each and every day. Child protection is every employee's job, and employees may not begin work until they are trained. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to strengthen our community, beginning with you. 


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