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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Thompsonville, MI (NOW HIRING)

Food Service Associate #24 Benzonia

Benzonia, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Cleaning of kitchen areausing WescoFood Safety standards * Represent the Wesco Brand to customers and Associates by embracing Wesco's Unifying Principles and Mission Statement

... other associates in their department as well as other departments. Specific store departments may include Building Materials, Decor, Electrical, Flooring, Garden, Hardware, Kitchen & Bath, Lumber ...

... associates in their department as well as other departments. Specific store departments may include Building Materials, Décor, Electrical, Flooring, Garden, Hardware, Kitchen & Bath, Lumber ...

... other associates in their department as well as other departments. Specific store departments may include Building Materials, Decor, Electrical, Flooring, Garden, Hardware, Kitchen & Bath, Lumber ...

... associates in their department as well as other departments. Specific store departments may include Building Materials, Décor, Electrical, Flooring, Garden, Hardware, Kitchen & Bath, Lumber ...

Department Supervisor

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$20.50 - $23/hr

... Hardware, Kitchen & Bath, Lumber, Millwork, Paint, Plumbing, Pro Account Sales, Tool Rental, Front End, Freight, Receiving, Associate Support, Special Services, and Merchandising Execution or a ...

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Kitchen Associate information

See Thompsonville, MI salary details

$7

$16

$26

How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen associate in Thompsonville, MI is $16.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $17.07 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 cities near Thompsonville, MI are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs?

Cities near Thompsonville, MI with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:

Food Service Associate #24 Benzonia

Wesco

Benzonia, MI • On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Wesco rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 126 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

199th of 366 rated logistics


Job description

AFood ServiceAssociate has many job duties including but not limited to the following:

  • Excel at delivering a rewarding customer experience
  • Perform all tasks with the safety of Associates and customers in mind
  • Adhere to company policies, procedures, and guidelines
  • Complete all housekeeping functions (cleaning, dusting, sweeping, mopping, etc.)
  • Cleaning of kitchen areausing WescoFood Safety standards
  • Represent the Wesco Brand to customers and Associates by embracing Wesco's Unifying Principles and Mission Statement

What Wesco employees say

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