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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Support the training and development of line cooks and prep associates through hands-on guidance and real-time coaching. * Execute daily kitchen operations including prep lists, station readiness ...

Kitchen Manager

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$65K/yr

Support the training and development of line cooks and prep associates through hands-on guidance and real-time coaching. * Execute daily kitchen operations including prep lists, station readiness ...

Support the training and development of line cooks and prep associates through hands-on guidance and real-time coaching. * Execute daily kitchen operations including prep lists, station readiness ...

Training and development of culinary and Front of House associates with emphasis on food ... Actively involved in kitchen and department head meetings * Covers shifts in the kitchen as ...

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 ...

Kitchen Utility Associate

Durham, NC ยท On-site

$15 - $16/hr

POSITION SUMMARY As a Kitchen Utility Associate (Dishwasher) in our community's restaurant, you help ensure our culinary team has clean pots to prepare delicious meals and dishware to deliver the ...

Kitchen Utility Associate

Wake Forest, NC ยท On-site

$11.25 - $14.25/hr

POSITION SUMMARY As a Kitchen Utility Associate (Dishwasher) in our community's restaurant, you help ensure our culinary team has clean pots to prepare delicious meals and dishware to deliver the ...

Kitchen Team (P1-1352324-0)

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/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 ...

Kitchen Team (P1-2191938-1)

Selma, NC ยท On-site

$11.25 - $13.75/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 ...

Kitchen Team (P1-1351263-7)

Apex, NC ยท On-site

$10.75 - $13.25/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 Raleigh, NC salary details

$9

$18

$30

How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen associate in Raleigh, NC is $18.48, 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 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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:

$12 - $15.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Hwy 55 is looking for folks with great hustle and competitive drive to join our cook team. If you have awesome energy and thrive in a fast-paced environment, you may be a good fit for us!

Flexible scheduling is available and we are happy to work around school activities and schedules. No previous kitchen or restaurant-specific experience necessary; all we ask is that you be coachable, excited to learn, and willing take initiative.

Join the Hwy55 Family and receive:

  • Paid comprehensive training with opportunities to retrain in various roles.
  • Free or discounted meals during your shift depending on length of shift.
  • A positive and empowering atmosphere.
  • A clear pathway to leadership positions.
  • Opportunities to build your resume and gain valuable skills you can take with you into any career path.
  • Flexible scheduling.

Your role at Hwy55:

  • Value the stories of all guests who walk through our doors and commit to making their days brighter.
  • Cook and prepare delicious, high-quality food, the way you would serve your family or your best friend.
  • Thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy atmosphere.
  • Implement proper quality assurance and food-safety procedures.
  • Hustle with a smile and a great attitude.

Our Ideal Teammate:

  • Excels in a fast-paced environment and handles stressful situations well.
  • Loves helping others and being part of a team.
  • Willing and able to work in a physically demanding role (able to lift up to 40 lbs. and stay on feet for several hours)

Starting pay is dependent on experience. All Cooks begin as Trainees. After training is complete, Team Members receive guaranteed pay increases as they advance in levels. Leadership roles begin at Level III and are readily available and we choose and promote all of our leadership internally.

The career opportunities at Hwy 55 go beyond management. Unlike our competitors, we don't believe in searching for outside investors to own our franchises. Over 60 of our current franchisees began their careers at Hwy as cooks or servers. The opportunity to own your own business is available to ALL Hwy 55 employees.ย 

Check out this video to learn more about our in-house financing for franchisees:ย