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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

... associate can grow and thrive. With comprehensive benefits and a culture rooted in respect and ... No Overview Assist with the planning and managing of the kitchen as appropriate in order to achieve ...

Kitchen Assistant Dishwasher

PA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

Kitchen Assistant Dishwasher A certified Great Place To Work (voted by associates) 8 years in a row! Benefits-- Kitchen Assistant Dishwasher * Medical, Dental, Vision offerings (for benefit eligible ...

Hospitality Associate

Zelienople, PA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

The Household Assistant (Hospitality Associate) is responsible for the function of the assigned household kitchen, including meal preparation, service and cleanup, as well as the overall cleanliness ...

Showing results 21-40

Kitchen Associate information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$9

$18

$30

How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen associate in Pittsburgh, PA is $18.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $19.62 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 Pittsburgh, PA?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:

What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs?

Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:

Kitchen Supervisor

HEI Hotels and Resorts

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


HEI Hotels & Resorts rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About Us
At the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center, we don't just offer exceptional hospitality - we offer exceptional careers. Located in the heart of the city, just steps from Acrisure Stadium and across from PPG Paints Arena, our hotel blends modern style with authentic Pittsburgh charm. What truly sets us apart is our people. We believe that our success begins with an engaged and empowered team. That's why we're committed to providing a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic workplace where every associate can grow and thrive. With comprehensive benefits and a culture rooted in respect and belonging, the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center is more than just a place to work - it's a place to build your future. Discover how far your potential can take you. Join us today.
Don't meet every single requirement of this job? At HEI we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to still send in your information. You may be the perfect candidate for this or for other roles within our organization!
We value U.S. military experience and invite all qualified military candidates to apply.
Compensation
Tipped/Service Charge Eligible? No
Discretionary Performance Bonus Eligible? No
Overview
Assist with the planning and managing of the kitchen as appropriate in order to achieve customer satisfaction, quality service, compliance with corporate/franchise policies and procedures and federal, state and local regulations while meeting/exceeding financial goals.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Supervise the production, preparation, and presentation of all foods for the hotel as assigned by the • Executive Chef to ensure that a quality, consistent product is produced which conforms to all HEI/Franchise standards.
  • Supervise Human Resources in the production and preparation areas of the kitchen in order to attract, retain and motivate the associates while providing a safe work environment; interview, schedule, train, develop, empower, coach and counsel, resolve problems, provide open communication, recommend and conduct performance and salary reviews, recommend discipline, as appropriate.
  • Monitor and control the maintenance/sanitation of the kitchen and equipment to ensure a healthy, safe work environment which meets/exceeds federal, state, corporate and franchise standards, and regulations.
  • Monitor and control all labor and food costs through scheduling, training, and supervising the production of the food to ensure budgets are met/exceeded while quality is maintained/improved.
  • Assist in the creation and planning of menus and daily specials; implement the necessary production changes to attract new business and ensure current guest satisfaction.
  • Comply with attendance rules and be available to work on a regular basis.
  • Perform any other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills
  • Minimum one year of post high school education, preferably at Culinary Institution.
  • Three to four years of employment in a related position.
  • Hotel experience preferred.
  • Requires advanced knowledge of the principles and practices within the food profession. This includes experiential knowledge required for management of people and/or complex problems and food and beverage management.
  • Knowledge of hotel operations, including marketing plans, security and safety programs, personnel and labor relations, preparation of business plans, repairs, maintenance, budget forecasting, quality assurance programs, hospitality law, and long-range planning.
  • Ability to work effectively under time constraints and deadlines.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills. Ability to adapt communication style to suit different audiences, such as effectively communicating with supervisors, coworkers, public etc.

Benefits
HEI Hotels and Resorts is committed to providing a comprehensive benefit program that offers you choices for your physical, mental and financial wellness, creating value in your most important investment - you!
For your physical and mental wellness we offer competitive Medical and Dental programs through Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield as well as Vision insurance programs through EyeMed. Our Vacation, Sick and Holiday programs are available for you to rejuvenate with time off. HEI also provides pet insurance through the ASPCA. For your financial wellness, HEI provides a wide array of coverage, including Supplemental, Spousal and Child Life insurance as well as Short and Long-Term Disability plans. Our 401(k) Savings Plan with matching funds, and discounts through our 'YouDecide' and Hotel Room Discount programs provide additional incentives for choosing HEI as the employer of your future. Specific details and eligibility of these programs vary by location and employment status.
HEI Hotels and Resorts is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

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