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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Red Oak, IA (NOW HIRING)

Cubby s Inc

Kitchen Associate

Red Oak, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Our Kitchen Associates are responsible for all deli operations in our stores. They create the delicious, traditional, comfort food and pizza that our customers know and love! A career as a Kitchen ...

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Kitchen Associate information

See Red Oak, IA salary details

$7

$15

$26

How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen associate in Red Oak, IA is $16.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $16.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in a kitchen?

The highest paying jobs in a kitchen typically include executive chef and head chef positions, which require extensive experience, culinary skills, and management abilities. These roles often offer higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and leadership duties within the kitchen environment.

How to work in a kitchen with no experience?

A Kitchen Associate role often requires minimal experience, making it suitable for beginners. Start by learning basic food safety and sanitation practices, and be prepared to perform tasks like cleaning, prep work, and assisting more experienced staff. On-the-job training is common, and a positive attitude and willingness to learn are important for success.

What do kitchen associates do?

Kitchen associates perform tasks such as preparing ingredients, cleaning work areas, and assisting with food service in a kitchen environment. They often handle basic food prep, dishwashing, and maintaining cleanliness to support kitchen operations and ensure food safety standards.

What qualifications do I need to be a Kitchen Assistant?

To be a Kitchen Assistant, there are typically no formal educational requirements, but basic food safety knowledge and good communication skills are important. Some employers may prefer previous experience in food service or a relevant certification such as a food handler's permit. Physical stamina and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also beneficial.

What are kitchen associates?

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 cities near Red Oak, IA are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs? Cities near Red Oak, IA with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:
Kitchen Associate jobs near you
Kitchen Associate

Kitchen Associate

Cubby s Inc

Red Oak, IA • On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Description

Our Kitchen Associates are responsible for all deli operations in our stores. They create the delicious, traditional, comfort food and pizza that our customers know and love! A career as a Kitchen Associate is challenging, rewarding and gives you the chance to be your best. You'll take pride in what you do as you prepare made from scratch recipes with a variety of tastes and flavors


Position Reporting Structure:

Position reports to Kitchen Manager


This position is for people who like to stay busy and work as a team. A typical workday will include these responsibilities and more:


  • Smile and greet customers.
  • Provide a fast and friendly customer experience every visit.
  • Complete prep work as assigned; prepare menu items according to Cubby's recipes.
  • Follow approved cooking procedures and present quality food to company standards.
  • Practice sanitary and safe food handling procedures.
  • Clean and sanitize the work area before, during, and after the scheduled shift.
  • Follow company uniform and dress code requirements to include non-slip shoes and hair restraint.
  • Ability to multi-task, perform repeated bending, standing and reaching, and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.

  • Subject to hot grease, wet floors, and temperature extremes.

In addition to working for a reputable, stable company where you make a difference every day, you will have peace of mind knowing your career opportunities are great with Cubby's!


Improve your career's reputation and apply now!


Reference checks will be conducted on all candidates. Successful candidates must pass a standard background check.


Cubby's is an equal opportunity employer.


Safety and Sanitation

  • ·Verify the completion of time/temperature logs to ensure proper cooking and holding temperatures for prepared food items
  • Check and document temperature on all refrigeration equipment each shift
  • Practice and maintain safe food handling procedures at all times
  • Wear non-slip shoes for every shift and hold employees accountable to doing the same
  • Ensure employees wear clean uniform and hair restraint at all times
  • Hold employees accountable to cleanliness standards; delegate and monitor daily and weekly cleaning tasks
  • Ensure the use of lids and straws on all cups when drinking beverages in the food preparation areas
  • Maintain clear isles and walk ways in compliance with ADA Title III

Customer Service

  • Interact with customers and employees in a respectful, courteous manner, creating a friendly atmosphere
  • Lead by example by frequently washing hands throughout the shift, wears clean disposable gloves on both hands at all times when handling ready-to-eat foods
  • Ensure the availability and quality of hot bar items and prepared foods
  • Maintain company standards for food production, shelf life, recipes, product quality, and presentation

Communication

  • Speak honestly and act with integrity at all times
  • Effectively communicate procedures, promotions and new products to employees
  • Earn the trust of others through open, honest communication and good follow through.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Current SERV safe certification required
  • Must be 18 years of age or older to work with kitchen equipment
  • Capable of using knives, slicers, and other food preparation equipment

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Able to provide excellence in service, perform basic mathematical calculations, read and write, and understand and follow instructions
  • Must be detail-oriented and accurate
  • Must have good interpersonal and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to multi-task effectively in a busy environment
  • Responsible, dependable, and adaptable to change

DISCLAIMER -THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY PEOPLE ASSIGNED TO THIS POSITION. THEY ARE NOT TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES, AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED. ALL PERSONNEL MAY BE REQUIRED TO PERFORM DUTIES OUTSIDE OF THEIR NORMAL RESPONSIBILITIES FROM TIME TO TIME, AS NEEDED.

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