1

Kitchen Helper Jobs in Newry, ME (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Steward

Oxford, ME · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

JOB SUMMARY Responsible for the overall cleanliness of kitchen areas and dishware, tableware, and service ware under the guidance of the Kitchen Supervisors. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

CHEF II

Berlin, NH · On-site

$17.81 - $23.39/hr

Assigns work to cooks and other kitchen help, to facilitate a clean, smooth running food service operation. Organizes and substantiates good cleaning practices, maintains sanitary conditions, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Kitchen Helper information

See Newry, ME salary details

$9

$15

$18

How much do kitchen helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen helper in Newry, ME is $15.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $16.11 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 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.

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 cities near Newry, ME are hiring for Kitchen Helper jobs?

Cities near Newry, ME with the most Kitchen Helper job openings:

Kitchen Manager

West Paris, ME • On-site


Rusty Lantern Markets LLC
Retail • 51 - 200 employees

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Paid breaks

Respectful managers


$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Company Overview

Rusty Lantern Markets is a rapidly growing chain of convenience stores located throughout New England. We pride ourselves on our bright, spacious, and welcoming stores that provide outstanding customer service, fresh hand-made barista coffees, grab-and-go food items, and custom meals made to order.

Summary

As a Kitchen Manager at Rusty Lantern Markets, you will oversee kitchen operations to ensure the highest standards of food quality and safety are being met. This role is essential in maintaining our commitment to exceptional customer service while leading a team dedicated to providing fresh and delicious food options that our customers have known to expect and love.

Responsibilities of the Kitchen Manager

  • Manage daily kitchen operations to ensure efficiency and quality in food preparation.
  • Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment.
  • Train and develop kitchen staff in culinary techniques and customer service standards.
  • Collaborate with management to create seasonal menus that reflect customer preferences.
  • Monitor inventory levels and order supplies as needed to maintain operational flow.
  • Implement cost control measures to maximize profitability without compromising quality.
  • Foster a positive team environment that encourages collaboration and high performance.

Perks & Benefits

  • Paid vacation and sick time
  • Birthday off
  • Holiday pay, plus earn floating holiday
  • 401K with employer match
  • Health and other benefits with generous employer contributions for employees and family
  • Annual raises
  • Monthly bonus potential
  • Store discount for all team members
  • Employee referral bonus

Qualifications

  • MUST HAVE proven experience in kitchen management or culinary leadership roles.
  • Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
  • Excellent culinary skills with a passion for creating high-quality food offerings.
  • Ability to train and develop staff effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience with POS systems is preferred but not required.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
  • Customer-focused mindset with excellent communication skills.

If you are ready to lead a dynamic kitchen team in a thriving convenience store environment, we invite you to apply today and help us serve our community at Rusty Lantern Markets!



What Rusty Lantern Markets employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom