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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Elkhart, IN (NOW HIRING)

Panda Restaurant Group

Service Team

South Bend, IN

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Join us as a Service Team Associate We're looking for friendly team players to create a warm ... Works efficiently in fast paced kitchen environment, and may work at different positions - Front ...

Panda Restaurant Group

Service Team

Elkhart, IN

$15 - $20/hr

Join us as a Service Team Associate We're looking for friendly team players to create a warm ... Works efficiently in fast paced kitchen environment, and may work at different positions - Front ...

Panda Restaurant Group

Service Team

Mishawaka, IN

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Join us as a Service Team Associate We're looking for friendly team players to create a warm ... Works efficiently in fast paced kitchen environment, and may work at different positions - Front ...

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Kitchen Associate information

See Elkhart, IN salary details

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How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen associate in Elkhart, IN is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Can I work in a kitchen as a Kitchen Associate with no experience?

Kitchen Associate positions often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training for tasks like food preparation and cleaning. Basic skills such as teamwork, reliability, and a willingness to learn are valued, and some roles may require food safety certifications which can be obtained quickly. Entry-level roles are suitable for individuals new to the industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Elkhart, IN?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Elkhart, IN are:

What cities near Elkhart, IN are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs?

Cities near Elkhart, IN with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:

Kitchen Associate jobs near you

Sous Chef (Kitchen Manager) | Campus Dining (Multiple Positions Available)

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN • On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

University Of Notre Dame rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

338th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Company Description
The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace; it is a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person-mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University's mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!
Job Description
The Sous Chef provides critical leadership within Notre Dame Dining, driving the execution of a high-quality, student-centered culinary program across residential dining operations. Reporting to the Executive Sous Chef or Chef de Cuisine (contingent upon the selected career pathway), this position is responsible for daily kitchen operations, culinary excellence, and team leadership within an assigned dining hall or production area.
This role ensures consistency, efficiency, and superior food preparation while contributing to a dynamic dining program that reflects innovation, hospitality, and the core values of the University of Notre Dame.
Key Responsibilities
40% - Culinary Leadership & Execution
  • Oversee daily food production within assigned stations, ensuring rigorous consistency, quality, and presentation standards.
  • Execute menus in strict alignment with established recipes, culinary standards, and service expectations.
  • Support menu implementation, including station setup, development, and the selection of high-quality ingredients.
  • Maintain a strong culinary presence during service periods to ensure a premium student dining experience.

20% - Team Leadership & Development
  • Supervise and direct culinary staff, including professional cooks and student employees, establishing clear expectations and maintaining accountability.
  • Provide hands-on training in culinary techniques, safety protocols, sanitation, and production standards.
  • Drive performance management through active coaching, constructive feedback, and daily engagement with team members.
  • Foster a professional, team-oriented kitchen environment focused on continuous growth and consistency.

15% - Operations & Production Management
  • Coordinate daily production schedules to align accurately with volume demands and service requirements.
  • Manage inventory, ordering, and receiving to maintain optimal stock levels and product integrity.
  • Monitor food cost controls through meticulous utilization, portioning, and waste reduction practices.
  • Optimize kitchen workflows, including prep, pantry production, and service execution for maximum efficiency.

15% - Food Safety & Sanitation
  • Ensure strict adherence to all local, state, and university health, safety, and sanitation standards.
  • Monitor proper food handling, storage, labeling, and temperature controls throughout the production cycle.
  • Maintain an organized, clean, and \"inspection-ready\" kitchen environment at all times.

10% - Student Experience & Engagement
  • Enhance the dining environment through visible, approachable leadership during service hours.
  • Support initiatives that elevate the student experience, including themed meals, special events, and menu innovation.
  • Remain responsive to student feedback and evolving dietary preferences to ensure program relevance.

Qualifications
Required
  • Education: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts (or a related field) or equivalent professional experience.
  • Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of progressive culinary experience in high-volume food service environments.
  • Leadership: Demonstrated experience leading teams in a kitchen or production setting.
  • Knowledge: Expert-level understanding of food safety, sanitation, and production systems.

Preferred
  • Certification: American Culinary Federation (ACF) certification - Certified Sous Chef (CSC).
  • Environment: Experience in collegiate or institutional dining environments.
  • Scope: Experience supporting large-scale, multi-station service models.

Core Competencies
  • Excellence in culinary execution and consistency.
  • Strong team leadership and professional accountability.
  • Operational efficiency and organizational mastery.
  • Adaptability in high-volume, fast-paced environments.
  • Deep commitment to hospitality and the student experience.

Work Environment
This is a back-of-house (BOH) position operating within a fast-paced, high-volume residential dining environment. The role requires flexibility, including availability for evenings, weekends, and peak service periods aligned with the University academic calendar.
Position Structure
Reporting to the Executive Sous Chef or Chef de Cuisine, the Sous Chef supervises culinary staff and supports the successful day-to-day execution of dining operations within their assigned area, following their designated career pathway.
Additional Information
Annual Salary Starting at: $55,000
Commensurate with Experience
As part of our commitment to attracting top talent, eligible new hires may receive a relocation incentive equal to a one time 10% of their annual base salary. This incentive is intended to help offset relocation and transition expenses associated with accepting the position. Eligibility requirements and payment details will be discussed during the hiring process.
The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.

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