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Kitchen Intern Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Intern/Extern

Washington, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

Thestudents will train on essential functions as members of the culinary brigade inthe kitchen with support and guidance from culinary management. Students will becomeeducated on the standards and ...

The students will train on essential functions as members of the culinary brigade in the kitchen with support and guidance from culinary management. Students will become educated on the standards and ...

Intern/Extern

Washington, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

The students will train on essential functions as members of the culinary brigade in the kitchen with support and guidance from culinary management. Students will become educated on the standards and ...

Prep Cook

Richmond, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

The Prep Cook plays a vital role in the kitchen by preparing ingredients, assembling recipes, and ... Type of position: ☒ Full-time ☐ Seasonal ☒ Part-time ☐ Contractor ☐ Intern Reporting to:

Prep Cook

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

The Prep Cook plays a vital role in the kitchen by preparing ingredients, assembling recipes, and ... Type of position: ☒ Full-time ☐ Seasonal ☒ Part-time ☐ Contractor ☐ Intern Reporting to:

... Development Intern. We're a local company (founded by 2 Mason students) that is now one of the ... The kitchen stocked with snacks * Cold Brew Coffee Machine * Office close to Reston Town Center

Community Relations (8 %): Assists in monitoring work of volunteers working in the kitchen and concession areas. Oversees intern workers; monitors progress; weekly documents success. Manages and ...

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Kitchen Intern information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$18

$30

How much do kitchen intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen intern in Virginia is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kitchen intern?

Kitchen Interns are entry-level team members who work in a restaurant or food service kitchen to gain hands-on experience in food preparation, safety, and kitchen operations. They typically assist chefs and cooks with tasks such as prepping ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and learning basic cooking techniques. The role is designed to give aspiring culinary professionals practical exposure and training that can help them advance in the hospitality industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kitchen intern?

To thrive as a Kitchen Intern, you need basic culinary knowledge, food safety awareness, and a willingness to learn, often supported by a high school diploma or enrollment in a culinary program. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, safety standards, and inventory systems is helpful in this role. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a positive attitude help you stand out in a fast-paced kitchen environment. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining kitchen efficiency, ensuring food safety, and supporting the overall success of the culinary team.

What are some common challenges that kitchen interns face during their internship, and how can they overcome them?

Kitchen interns often encounter fast-paced environments where multitasking and time management are crucial. Adapting to the physical demands and maintaining attention to detail under pressure can be challenging, especially during busy service hours. To overcome these challenges, interns should communicate proactively with their team, ask questions when uncertain, and observe experienced chefs to learn efficient techniques. Developing a strong work ethic and embracing feedback can help interns grow and succeed in the role.

What is the difference between Kitchen Intern vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectKitchen InternKitchen Assistant
CredentialsMay be a student or trainee, no formal certification requiredOften requires basic food safety or sanitation certifications
Work EnvironmentLearning-focused, often in training or educational settingsOperational, assisting with daily kitchen tasks
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, culinary schoolsRestaurants, catering services, hotels
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Kitchen Intern and a Kitchen Assistant is that a Kitchen Intern is typically a student or trainee gaining experience, often without formal certifications, while a Kitchen Assistant is a more operational role requiring basic food safety knowledge. Interns focus on learning, whereas Assistants support daily kitchen functions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Kitchen Intern jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Kitchen Intern job openings:

Federal Work-Study (FWS) Internship Program: Teaching Kitchen Assistant TFWS Intern (Student Wage...

The University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA

$13/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

208th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Summary of position:

A Teaching Kitchen Assistant Intern is needed to support Hoo's Cooking nutrition education and culinary skills classes at the Student Health and Wellness Teaching Kitchen (TK). The mission of the Teaching Kitchen is to help students build skills and knowledge in food preparation, budgeting, and nutrition that support health, honor culture, promote food stewardship, build community, and foster joy and confidence in cooking.

Hoo's Cooking programming includes hands-on cooking classes led by students, dietetic interns, registered dietitians, and/or professional chefs. Individual Sign-up classes, open for all students to register, and Group classes, arranged for specific student organizations, teams, or UVA departments, are offered weekly during the fall and spring semesters. Additionally, virtual cooking demos are filmed and posted online.

The Teaching Kitchen Assistant Intern (TKAI) helps keep cooking classes running smoothly, from prep to wrap up, and additionally behind the scenes supporting system operation. The TKAI reports to the Senior Nutrition Educator and works closely with the Well-Being Services Senior Administrative Assistant, TK facilitators, and other TK student staff. This position provides experience in leadership, teambuilding, budgeting, food safety, culinary, marketing, research, and production skills. Student Health and Wellness and the TK will provide orientation and training.

Schedule/Time Commitment:

  • The position requires a time commitment of 10 hours per week for fall and/or spring semester(s).
  • One to 2 weekday evening shifts are required weekly and occasional daytime shifts are available. Shifts last 3 hours.
  • Additional hours (up to 7) involve operational support. Some of this time will be during business hours on weekdays and some can be completed on a flexible schedule.

Specific Responsibilities:
The TK Assistant Intern supports instructors in conducting cooking classes:
Pre-class:

  • Set up equipment at stations
  • Wash produce, open packages
  • Measure/prep ingredients for instructor
  • Manage print materials

During class:

  • Manage attendance
  • Help supervise and coach participants
  • Clear and clean

Post-class:

  • Wash dishes, wipe tables, general clean up
  • Pack and label leftovers
  • Update inventory checklists

The TK Assistant Intern also supports system operations:

  • Marketing: support advertising and promotional efforts
  • Research: maintain database and assist with survey result analysis
  • Special projects: create educational materials related to nutrition, culinary skills, and budgeting

Qualifications and Expectations:

  • Pre-requisite - previous participation in at least 1 Hoo's Cooking class
  • Participate in a structured internship experience through the Internship Placement Program (IPP). If selected, interns must enroll in either UNST 3910 (1 cr.) or UNST 3920 (1 cr.). See details at end of post.
  • Full time undergraduate student enrolled at the University of Virginia
  • Basic cooking skills
  • Excellent communication skills - reading, speaking
  • Attitude - positivity, supportive manner
  • Professionalism - punctuality, responsibility to schedule
  • Prioritize safety - hygiene, equipment handling
  • Ability to move food/dishes/equipment around the kitchen


In addition to the responsibilities outlined above, the Teaching Kitchen Assistant will be expected to:

  • Demonstrate strong organizational, communication, facilitation, and time management skills with attention to detail
  • Maintain department standards and protocol with respect to processes, confidentiality, and other issues as may arise
  • Demonstrate professional standards and ethics, and foster a culture of professionalism among peers
  • Be flexible, open-minded, proactive, and maintain a positive attitude
  • Support the weight neutral approach of the UVA Teaching Kitchen

Compensation:

Pay is $13.00/hour, up to $1,040.00 total per semester (fall/spring). Federal Work Study eligibility is required. Please contact Student Financial Services at 434-982-6000 or visit the SFS website to inquire about FWS eligibility. Additionally, meal provided at cooking class shifts worked.

In addition to the job duties and responsibilities outlined above, this position will participate in a structured internship experience through the Internship Placement Program (IPP). If selected, interns must enroll in either UNST 3910 (1 cr.) or UNST 3920 (1 cr.). The courses are offered 9+ times during the fall, offering plenty of options to choose from. We also have an asynchronous, co-curricular option for students. Through this robust internship experience, students will receive dedicated career support from their supervisor and gain key skills and competencies that align with future job interests. The FWS Internship will look great on your resume and provide the student with impactful stories to share in interviews. TFWS Internships are best suited for students in their 2nd - 4th years.

Supervisor Contact Information:

Melanie Brede, RD

Senior Nutrition Educator

434-924-1513

melanieb@virginia.edu

Please submit a resume and cover letter with your application.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Current UVA undergraduate student with Federal Work Study eligibility
Experience: None
Licensure: None

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.


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About University of Virginia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819