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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Minnetonka, MN (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Associate - Pump & Pantry

Lakeville, MN · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

The Pump Kitchen Associate is responsible for providing food service in the Pump & Pantry location with excellent customer satisfaction. For particular locations this may also include Pump Food ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Minnetonka, MN salary details

$9

$19

$32

How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen associate in Minnetonka, MN is $19.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $20.58 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 Minnetonka, MN? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Minnetonka, MN are:
What cities near Minnetonka, MN are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs? Cities near Minnetonka, MN with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:

Production Kitchen Associate

Kowalski's Markets

Shoreview, MN

$13 - $19.20/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Kowalski's Markets rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Production Kitchen is the backbone of our stores. We prepare foods of all types to be shipped to our 11 locations across the metro area. Kitchen Associates must be self-starters, who work well in busy environments. Team collaboration is essential as well. Being able to communicate with other stakeholders improves workflow and contributes to a better work environment. Kowalski’s Companies is a civic business. Part of being a civic business means all stakeholders are obligated to understand how their actions impact others.

Department Shift Requirements:

  • Availability starting at 6am
  • Available around 30-35 hours per week
  • Must be able to work Saturdays and Holidays (with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter)
  • Must be able to work weekends
  • Flexibility is appreciated. Being able to stay until the load is finished and the department is cleaned up

Standards, Procedures, and Job Expectations:

  • Must be able to work without supervision
  • Must be able to work well with coworkers
  • Self-starter
  • Assisting with food preparation
    • Proper handling, sanitization, freshness, and quality of all products
    • Proper packaging of all products
    • Proper stocking of products
    • Assembling bulk salads and grab and go items
    • Reading and understanding formulas and mixing
  • Maintain the cleanliness of your department
  • Perform duties in any area/department as needed

Functional Requirements:

  • Lift/Carry 5-70lbs using proper lifting techniques
  • Push/Pull 5-2000lbs
  • Frequent repetitive motion required including, but not limited to reaching, standing, stooping, bending, turning, kneeling, walking, climbing ladders, and lifting at or above shoulder level.

What Kowalski's Markets employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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Kowalski's Markets logo

About Kowalski's Markets

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kowalski's Markets were created out of our family's love and passion for delicious, healthy foods and inspired by families looking for a place where they'd love to shop and be proud to call their own. The flow of our markets is designed to be easy and convenient. The environment is relaxed and well organized. It's the kind of place you'll feel comfortable running into for a quick gift or a forgotten item. Most importantly, it's a place where you can shop at your own pace, mingle freely with staff and friends, and discover something new each time you visit. Whether it's your first time shopping with us or you've been a loyal customer for years, we promise to always do our best to make you feel like family.

Industry

Supermarkets and grocery stores

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US

Year founded

1983

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