1

Kitchen Helper Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Looking for kitchen team members able to work anywhere in-between 2pm-11:30pm ! This is Back of House kitchen staff role that will be responsible for: * Food prep * Food packaging * Cleaning

The members of our kitchen team: Work quickly and efficiently, maintaining the highest quality standards. Keep the kitchen clean, hygienic and orderly at all times. Adhere properly to safety ...

Keep the kitchen clean, hygienic and orderly at all times. * Adhere properly to safety standards with kitchen equipment, ingredients and personnel. * Strive for quality and consistency in every ...

Help teammates improve food execution through real-time feedback * Stay ahead of volume by managing prep timing and par levels to keep the kitchen running smoothly * Be the advocate for food quality ...

Help teammates improve food execution through real-time feedback * Stay ahead of volume by managing prep timing and par levels to keep the kitchen running smoothly * Be the advocate for food quality ...

Help teammates improve food execution through real-time feedback * Stay ahead of volume by managing prep timing and par levels to keep the kitchen running smoothly * Be the advocate for food quality ...

Help teammates improve food execution through real-time feedback * Stay ahead of volume by managing prep timing and par levels to keep the kitchen running smoothly * Be the advocate for food quality ...

As the Kitchen Coordinator , you will provide an exceptional dining experience by assisting with ... Positive Impacts - You'll make a difference by helping seniors live life on purpose! Job Type ...

Showing results 21-40

Kitchen Helper information

See Madison, WI salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do kitchen helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen helper in Madison, WI is $15.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kitchen helper?

As a kitchen helper, you perform a variety of duties in a restaurant, cafe, or large commercial kitchen. You use food service skills to assist chefs, wait staff, and restaurant managers with a variety of tasks to keep the kitchen functioning smoothly and safely. Although there are no formal qualifications required for this career, you typically have some form of previous restaurant work experience, such as dishwashing or bussing tables. You do not interact directly with customers, although your job may be near customer areas. Kitchen helpers must be detail oriented and capable of multi-tasking in a fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges faced by kitchen helpers and how can they be managed?

Kitchen helpers often work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments where multitasking and efficiency are crucial. Common challenges include standing for long periods, managing time effectively during busy service hours, and maintaining cleanliness while juggling multiple tasks. To manage these challenges, it's important to wear comfortable, non-slip footwear, stay organized by following a prep list, and communicate clearly with team members to coordinate tasks smoothly. Adhering to kitchen safety and hygiene protocols also helps minimize stress and ensures a productive workflow.

What is the difference between Kitchen Helper vs Dishwasher?

AspectKitchen HelperDishwasher
Primary ResponsibilitiesAssisting with food prep, cleaning, organizingLoading, operating, and cleaning dishwashing equipment
Required SkillsBasic kitchen knowledge, ability to follow instructionsAbility to operate dishwashing machines, attention to cleanliness
Work EnvironmentKitchen, food prep areasKitchen, dishwashing stations
CertificationsNone typically requiredNone typically required

While both roles support kitchen operations, a Kitchen Helper assists with a variety of tasks including food prep and cleaning, whereas a Dishwasher focuses primarily on cleaning dishes and kitchenware. Both positions are entry-level and essential for maintaining efficient kitchen workflows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kitchen helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kitchen Helper, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen sanitation standards, and the physical stamina to handle standing for long periods. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and safe food handling certifications, such as a food handler's permit, are often required. Strong teamwork, time management, and a positive attitude help you excel in a fast-paced and collaborative kitchen environment. These skills are important to maintain safety, efficiency, and high-quality food service in any culinary operation.

Is a kitchen helper a stressful job?

A kitchen helper role can be physically demanding and requires working in a fast-paced environment, which may contribute to stress. However, it generally involves routine tasks like cleaning, prepping, and assisting chefs, and stress levels depend on the workplace and workload. Good organizational skills and teamwork can help manage job-related stress.
What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Kitchen Helper jobs in Madison, WI? For Kitchen Helper jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Kitchen Helper jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Kitchen Helper jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Kitchen Helper jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Kitchen Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Kitchen Helper job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,917 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Assistant Executive Kitchen Manager *5k sign-on*

Cooper's Hawk

Middleton, WI • On-site

$70K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 hours ago


Cooper's Hawk rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 113 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 88 rated restaurants


Job description

$5k SIGN-ON BONUS*
AEKM Compensation range is $70,000-$83,000/year + 10% bonus potential.
The final offered salary will be based on several factors, including but not limited to the candidate's depth of experience, skill set, qualifications, and internal pay equity.
As an Assistant Executive Kitchen Manager at Cooper's Hawk, you'll help lead a high-volume, scratch kitchen where culinary creativity meets operational excellence. You'll partner closely with the Executive Kitchen Manager to ensure exceptional food quality, consistency, and safety while coaching and inspiring your team. With a focus on leadership, training, and execution, you'll help deliver an outstanding guest experience and support the growth of our culinary team.
What You Will Get
  • 50 percent Dining and Carryout Discount; 40 percent Retail Wine Discount; 20 percent Discount on Retail and Private Events
  • Monthly Complimentary Wine Tasting for Two
  • Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision and Telehealth plus Wellness Discount
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Health & Flexible Savings Accounts- Health and Dependent Care
  • Long-Term Disability; Voluntary Short-Term Disability
  • Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (with option to purchase additional coverage)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Time Off
  • Access to Team Member Relief Program
  • Wellness and Mental Health Support
  • "Everyday Benefits" Program to include insurance coverage (pet, life, auto, home/property) and employee discounts on goods and services
  • Team Member Rewards, Milestone Recognition and Referral Bonuses
  • Career Development Opportunities

How You Will Succeed
Show Up Ready: Come prepared, stay sharp, and start strong .
  • Direct kitchen operations, including Kitchen Managers and Team Members across dish, prep, and line stations
  • Review schedules and manage assigned operating systems
  • Use tools like POS systems, scheduling software, ordering/inventory systems, and Microsoft Office to stay organized
  • Conduct line checks, create prep lists, and oversee supply ordering and inventory
  • Maintain a safe and healthy work environment and uphold food safety standards
  • Lead kitchen training, food execution, new menu roll-outs and system initiatives

Own What You See: Take responsibility, jump in, and do what needs to be done .
  • Participate in hourly kitchen Team Member hiring
  • Conduct side-by-sides with Team Members to support development and performance
  • Be accountable for food preparation knowledge and quality standards
  • Assist with weekly inventory procedures and maximize financial results

Stay in Sync: Communicate often, move with your team, and keep service flowing .
  • Ensure strong communication and collaboration between kitchen and front-of-house operations to ensure smooth operations
  • Lead Community meetings and coach Managers to align on goals and execution
  • Partner with the Executive Kitchen Manager and General Manager to drive results
  • Execute private events, including monthly themed Wine Club dinner

Make It Personal: Be genuine, listen well, and tailor the experience .
  • Represent Cooper's Hawk values and create a respectful, positive, and professional kitchen culture
  • Develop and retain Kitchen Managers and Team Members through coaching and mentorship
  • Add a Touch: Go beyond the expected to create memorable moments .
  • Lead by example and inspire pride in culinary standards, excellence and execution
  • Celebrate team wins and milestones

What You Wi ll Bring
  • 2-3 years of management experience in a full-service restaurant environment. Scratch kitchen experience preferred
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • A minimum age requirement of 21 years
  • Ability to read, understand and communicate in English
  • Demonstrates financial acumen
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Preferred certifications include ServSafe and state/local licensing requirements
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to stand for at least 10 hours per shift
  • Must have the ability to work 50-60 hours per week
  • Must be able to work flexible shifts and schedules, inclusive of weekends and some holidays

Cooper's Hawk reviews several factors when establishing compensation. Salaries and hourly wages appearing in a job posting may be published by third parties and may not reflect the salaries or hourly wages offered by Cooper's Hawk.
Cooper's Hawk is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to the person's race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Cooper's Hawk makes reasonable accommodations during all aspects of the employment process, including during the interview process.
The information provided above indicates the general nature and level of work required of the position and is not a comprehensive list of all responsibilities or qualifications. The Benefits list is only a highlight of some of the benefits offered to team members; eligibility for certain benefits apply.
*sign-on bonus includes a 2 year committment
About Us
Cooper's Hawk features a Napa-style tasting room with wine-inspired retail for entertaining and a full-service restaurant, bar and private event space, offering a modern-yet-casual dining experience. Each scratch-kitchen menu item is designed to pair with our wines. Speaking of wine...the Cooper's Hawk Wine Club is perhaps the largest in the world, offering not only top-notch award-winning wines but also exclusive Wine Club membership benefits, including curated dining and travel experiences. Since 2005, we've brought the Napa Valley experience to our guests and Wine Club members, and now, with Piccolo Buco by Cooper's Hawk, we're bringing the vibrant flavors of Rome to them as well. Together, we're creating a lifestyle brand like no other.

What Cooper's Hawk employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom