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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Elkhart, IN (NOW HIRING)

Service Team (Indeed Event)

Warsaw, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

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

See Elkhart, IN salary details

$8

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How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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 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 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:

Part-Time Culinary Service Associate | Columba Hall

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN • On-site

$17.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


University Of Notre Dame rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

337th of 618 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 University of Notre Dame Operations, Events, and Safety (UOES) division is currently hiring for a part-time Culinary Service Associate in Columba Hall in our Campus Dining department. The UOES division oversees the University's event management, hospitality, and customer service functions, while also supporting student life, academic initiatives, research activities, and annual milestone celebrations.
Culinary Service Associate
The Culinary Service Associate (CSA) is a "back-of-house" position. This position is critical to ensuring all diners experience excellent food production and service. This person is responsible for cleaning kitchen equipment, removing trash, cleaning floors and ceiling tiles, assisting with set-up and operation of the dish room, and participating in other general assignments.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Maintain the cleanliness and visual appeal of serving lines, food displays, and condiment stations throughout service hours
  • Assist with basic food preparation tasks such as washing and cutting vegetables, portioning ingredients, preparing simple salads, or assembling sandwiches/wraps as directed by culinary staff
  • Monitor and replenish food items on serving lines, ensuring a continuous supply and alerting cooks to low stock
  • Operate and maintain basic kitchen equipment safely, such as toasters, warmers, beverage dispensers, and coffee machines
  • Clean and sanitize workstations, serving utensils, and equipment before, during, and after shifts
  • Assist with dishwashing duties, including scraping, loading, and unloading the dish machine, and proper storage of clean dishware
  • Support inventory management by assisting with the receiving, rotating, and proper storage of food and supplies

Qualifications
  • Capable of managing time effectively with minimal supervision
  • Positive, respectful, and committed to the schedule you create
  • Excellent communication and listening skills
  • Ability to maintain a standing position for extended periods of time (up to 6 hours at a time).
  • Ability to move around the café to attend to the needs of guests

Additional Information
Pay Rate: $17.50/hr
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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