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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Team

Portland, ME

$20 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join us as a Kitchen Team Associate We're looking for friendly team players to cook delicious food while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness for our guests. Thrive in a safe and ...

Kitchen Team (P1-1350674-1)

Portland, ME · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join us as a Kitchen Team Associate We're looking for friendly team players to cook delicious food while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness for our guests. Thrive in a safe and ...

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Kitchen Associate information

What is a kitchen associate?

Kitchen associates are team members who assist with food preparation, cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the overall organization of a kitchen. They typically work under the supervision of chefs or kitchen managers and help with tasks such as chopping ingredients, washing dishes, stocking supplies, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Kitchen associates play a vital role in keeping the kitchen running efficiently and supporting the culinary team in delivering quality meals.

What is the difference between Kitchen Associate vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectKitchen AssociateKitchen Helper
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredMinimal formal credentials; on-the-job training provided
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesSimilar environments, often assisting kitchen staff
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in restaurants, hotels, catering companiesCommonly used interchangeably with Kitchen Associate in hospitality
Job ResponsibilitiesFood prep, dishwashing, maintaining cleanlinessAssisting with basic food prep, cleaning, stocking supplies

Overall, Kitchen Associates typically have more defined responsibilities and may require basic certifications, while Kitchen Helpers focus on assisting with daily tasks and cleaning. Both roles are essential in maintaining efficient kitchen operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kitchen associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kitchen Associate, you need a solid understanding of food safety, basic cooking techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies ensure efficient kitchen operations, compliance with health standards, and consistently high-quality food preparation.

What are some typical challenges a kitchen associate faces during busy service periods, and how can they be managed?

During peak meal times, Kitchen Associates often face challenges such as high order volumes, tight deadlines, and maintaining quality standards under pressure. To manage these, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and prioritize tasks efficiently. Many kitchens operate with a strong sense of teamwork, so supporting colleagues and asking for help when needed can make a big difference. Developing good time management skills and staying calm under pressure are essential for success in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Maine?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Maine are:

What cities in Maine are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs?

Cities in Maine with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:

Associate Program Coordinator, Teaching Kitchen

University of New England

Biddeford, ME • On-site

$26K - $28K/mo

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


University Of New England rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

546th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Position Type
Professional Staff
Faculty Track
Position Title
Associate Program Coordinator, Teaching Kitchen
Employment Status
Half Time
Months
12
Campus
Biddeford, ME
Description
The Associate Program Coordinator, Teaching Kitchen supports academic activities, including the production of the SeaMade nutrition bar, in the Teaching Kitchen in Decary Hall on the Biddeford Campus.
Responsibilities
Teaching Kitchen Duties
The Associate Program Coordinator performs a variety of duties to support academic activities in the Teaching Kitchen in Decary Hall on the Biddeford Campus at the University of New England. Duties include preparation and maintenance of the Teaching Kitchen physical space, maintaining and organizing inventory of consumable supplies and cooking tools, assisting faculty and students with academic events in the Teaching Kitchen, and eventually managing production of SeaMade nutrition bars.
Responsibilities
  • Maintain Teaching Kitchen physical space ensuring that all equipment is functioning properly and conditions are safe and clean; address any concerns through regular cleaning, scheduling work orders, and coordinating annual cleanings
  • Maintain and coordinate annual cleanings
  • Maintain Teaching Kitchen inventory of supplies and pantry items
  • Maintain records for Teaching Kitchen equipment
  • Participate in monthly Teaching Kitchen Committee meetings
  • Support and supervise Teaching Kitchen events as assigned
  • Support tours of Teaching Kitchen for visitors, funders, and staff
  • Supervise work study in maintenance of Teaching Kitchen cleanliness and inventory
  • Support production of SeaMade nutrition bars including ordering supplies, managing student production teams, and ensuring safe working environment.
  • Maintain UNE Teaching Kitchen and SeaMade Email
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in food related field (e.g., Nutrition, Hospitality, Food Systems, Natural Resources, Environmental Science) and experience and 1-3 years related experience or combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills are acquired.
  • Working knowledge applying sustainability principles in classes and/or work environment
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills
  • Working knowledge of kitchen safety procedures and kitchen equipment usage and maintenance
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to collaborate with small teams across UNE
  • Comfort with welcoming and providing directions to groups using the teaching kitchen

EEO Statement Summary
Consistent with federal and state law and University policy, the University of New England is committed to the fundamental concept of equal opportunity for all of the members of the University community. The University prohibits, and will not tolerate, discrimination in employment, the provision of academic services or in any other area of University life based on race, color, sex, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, ethnicity, genetic information, HIV status, or status as a veteran. Prohibited bias factors should not motivate decisions regarding students, employees, applicants for admission, applicants for employment, contractors, volunteers or participants in and/or users of institutional programs, services, and activities.
Vaccination Statement (PLEASE NOTE)
Employees in clinical settings must meet the State of Maine's immunization requirements for clinical activity.
Additional Note
This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship.
Anticipated Pay Range
$26,050 - $28,300
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
2022PS0946P
Open Date
08/10/2026
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes

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