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Kitchen Intern Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$62K - $68K/yr

... Employers for Intern Awards recognition since 2022. These honors are based on team member feedback and reflect what our team values most. About the Position Oversees kitchen operation while ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Sweeps, mops and hoses kitchen areas regularly or as needed. * Collects and disposes of used ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Ensuring that the kitchen operation procedures and hygiene meet food safety standards and ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Ensuring that the kitchen operation procedures and hygiene meet food safety standards and ...

Cook (PRN/On-Call)

Falls Church, VA ยท On-site

$21 - $24/hr

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Ensuring that the kitchen operation procedures and hygiene meet food safety standards and ...

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... the main kitchen. Job Duties * Monitors work schedules and daily job activities. * Monitors ...

Cook (Full-Time)

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$21 - $24/hr

... for Intern Awards. These honors are based entirely on feedback from our team members, gathered ... Competent in all Safety regulations and SOPS in the GHBC Kitchen * Competent at following and ...

Showing results 21-40

Kitchen Intern information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$18

$30

How much do kitchen intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 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.

Can I work in a kitchen intern with no experience?

Kitchen intern positions often do not require prior experience, as they are designed to provide training and hands-on learning. Employers typically look for enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and the ability to follow safety and hygiene standards. Basic skills like teamwork and punctuality can help in securing such roles.

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:

Sous Chef

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

Goodwin Living
Non-Profitsย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

$62K - $68K/yr

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Goodwin Living is a mission-driven nonprofit senior living and healthcare organization based in Alexandria, Virginia. We support, honor and uplift older adults and the people who care for them by creating a workplace rooted in purpose, belonging and growth. Our culture has earned consistent recognition, including Top Workplace honors in the D.C. region since 2019, national recognition by USA Today and Nurse.com, and Top Virginia Employers for Intern Awards recognition since 2022. These honors are based on team member feedback and reflect what our team values most.

About the Position

Oversees kitchen operation while maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment for the staff.ย  Prepares or directs preparation of all food by the kitchen staff in accordance with corporate programs and guidelines.ย  Follows standardized recipes, portioning, and presentation standards.ย  Completes and utilizes daily production worksheets and waste log sheets.ย  Tastes completed meals to ensure quality.

The pay range for this position is $62k-$68k depending on experience.

This shift is 11am-8pm with alternating weekends.

Job Duties

  • Assists with planning regular and modified menus according to established guidelines.
  • Conducts daily meetings with production team members.
  • Assists in training kitchen staff in food preparation, safe food handling, operation of equipment, food safety and sanitation based on regulatory standards.
  • Establishes and maintains cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment, storage and work areas.ย  Ensures that kitchen staff follows and completes schedules as assigned.
  • Assists with ordering of food / nonfood supplies while adhering to budget constraints.
  • Makes decisions regarding utilization of leftover food products.
  • Complies with federal, state, and local health and sanitation regulations as evidenced through local health department and third-party audits. Successful completion of surveys with no deficiencies.
  • Interfaces with representatives of regulatory agencies regarding food safety and sanitation in the kitchen.
  • Maintains a clean, sanitary working environment.
  • Follows facility and department infection control policies and procedures.
  • Adheres to facility confidentiality, HIPAA and patient rights policies.ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย 
  • Participates and attends departmental meetings, staff development, and professional programs, as appropriate.
  • Participates in meetings where department goals are established and implements assigned action plans to achieve expected outcomes.
  • Participates in hiring process and may provide input to hiring and performance management issues.ย  Consults appropriately with Human Resources and DS Director.
  • Mentors and assists team members with personal growth, training, and job skills.
  • Encourages positive team member behavior and performance, provides constant feedback including timely completion of performance appraisals, and rewards team members appropriately. Identifies unacceptable performance and behavior, takes appropriate action within authority, holds team members accountable, and maintains documentation.
  • Delegates responsibilities to team members adequately to ensure effective and appropriate accomplishments of tasks as needed.

Job Qualifications

  • High School graduate or equivalent required.
  • Three to five years of food service experience is preferred.
  • At least three years of supervisory experience is preferred.
  • Holds a current Serv Safe Food Service Sanitation Certificate or can obtain within first 30 days of hire.
  • Must be able to deal tactfully and effectively with staff, residents, and others.
  • Strong communication skills required.
  • Must use discretion and independent judgment when performing job duties.

A sampling of our many benefits!

Weโ€™ve got you covered with incredible benefits, whether you work full-time, part-time, or PRN (as needed). Hereโ€™s a glimpse of what we offer to Full-Time team members:

  • Paid Time Off
  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • DailyPay: Work and get paid the same day!
  • Tuition Assistance for Career Development
  • Student Loan Repayment Program
  • Financial assistance with U.S. Citizenship application or DACA Renewal
  • Tutoring for ESL, Citizenship Test & GED
  • Staff Emergency Grants
  • Retirement Plan- 401(k)
  • Free Meals, Access to a Fitness Center, Pool, and More

About Goodwin Living

At Goodwin Living, we can all find work with purpose! As a nonprofit senior living and healthcare organization based in Alexandria, Virginia, we are driven by our mission: to support, honor and uplift the lives of older adults and those who care for them. Our commitment to our team members is written directly into that statement. We create an enriching and supportive work environment that has earned us Top Workplace recognition by The Washington Post since 2019 and, more recently, national recognition by USA Today. These honors reflect the culture our team members foster every day โ€” one rooted in purpose, belonging, and growth.

Goodwin Living is an Equal Opportunity Employer and an AARP Employer Pledge Signer. We take pride in our inclusive work culture that values diversity and fosters talent. With us, you are more than just a team member; you are part of a community committed to excellence and continuous learning.