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Kitchen Porter Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Porter

Palos Heights, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Career Advancement Opportunities Porter Responsibilities ... Perform semi-skilled maintenance on Culver's kitchen and facility systems. * Conduct preventative ...

Porter

Palos Heights, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Career Advancement Opportunities Porter Responsibilities ... Perform semi-skilled maintenance on Culver's kitchen and facility systems. * Conduct preventative ...

Dishwasher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Kitchen Porter - Hawksmoor Chicago Chicago is the historical powerhouse of American beef, and when Hawksmoor found out about an actual powerhouse building, it felt like fate. So, after years of ...

Steward

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$15.20 - $24/hr

Kitchen Porter What is expected of YOU: As a valued member of the kitchen team, you are expected to provide excellent service to both internal and external guests, maintaining a professional and ...

Dishwasher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Kitchen Porter - Hawksmoor Chicago Chicago is the historical powerhouse of American beef, and when Hawksmoor found out about an actual powerhouse building, it felt like fate. So, after years of ...

Porter

Glenview, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Being the porter position, you are a member of the True Blue Crew who works primarily behind the ... In our kitchen, the details matter. These are the talented people who ensure every meal we serve is ...

Porter

Glenview, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Being the porter position, you are a member of the True Blue Crew who works primarily behind the ... In our kitchen, the details matter. These are the talented people who ensure every meal we serve is ...

Porter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

The Porter will be held accountable for the following responsibilities: * Assembles and transports ... Sweeps and mops kitchen, serving areas, storerooms, lunchrooms, and lunchroom restrooms and locker ...

Porter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

The Porter will be held accountable for the following responsibilities: * Assembles and transports ... Sweeps and mops kitchen, serving areas, storerooms, lunchrooms, and lunchroom restrooms and locker ...

Porter - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.05/hr

Porter Location: Chicago Reporting to: Technology & Facilities Manager Position Overview ... Team Collaboration Work closely with the kitchen, bar, and front-of-house teams to maintain a clean ...

Porter - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Porter Location: Chicago Reporting to: Technology & Facilities Manager Position Overview ... Team Collaboration Work closely with the kitchen, bar, and front-of-house teams to maintain a clean ...

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Kitchen Porter information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do kitchen porter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen porter in Chicago, IL is $16.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kitchen porter?

Kitchen porters are essential members of a kitchen team who help maintain cleanliness and organization. Their main duties include washing dishes, cleaning kitchen equipment, disposing of waste, and assisting chefs by preparing ingredients or restocking supplies. Kitchen porters ensure that the kitchen runs smoothly and meets hygiene standards. This role is often an entry point into the hospitality industry and provides valuable experience for those interested in culinary careers.

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

To thrive as a Kitchen Porter, you need strong organizational skills, attention to cleanliness, and the ability to follow health and safety regulations; formal qualifications are generally not required. Familiarity with commercial dishwashers, cleaning chemicals, and basic kitchen equipment is typical for the role. Reliability, teamwork, and a positive attitude are essential soft skills for maintaining smooth kitchen operations. These skills ensure a hygienic environment, support the kitchen team, and contribute to efficient food service.

What are the typical challenges faced by a kitchen porter, and how can they be managed effectively?

Kitchen Porters often face challenges such as working in a fast-paced environment, handling heavy or hot equipment, and maintaining high standards of cleanliness under time pressure. Effective time management and good communication with chefs and other kitchen staff are essential for staying organized and efficient. Building physical stamina and adopting safe lifting techniques can also help manage the physical demands of the job, while attention to detail ensures hygiene and safety standards are consistently met.

What is the difference between Kitchen Porter vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectKitchen PorterKitchen Assistant
ResponsibilitiesCleaning dishes, kitchenware, and maintaining cleanlinessSupporting food prep, assisting chefs, basic food handling
CredentialsNo formal qualifications typically requiredNo formal qualifications typically required
Work EnvironmentBack-of-house kitchen, cleaning dutiesBack-of-house, assisting with food prep and service
Industry UsageCommon in hospitality, restaurants, hotelsCommon in hospitality, restaurants, hotels

While both roles are essential in kitchen operations, a Kitchen Porter primarily focuses on cleaning and maintaining the kitchen environment, whereas a Kitchen Assistant supports food preparation and assists chefs. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in responsibilities and daily tasks.

How much does a kitchen porter get paid per hour?

A kitchen porter typically earns between £8.50 and £10.50 per hour, depending on the location, experience, and employer. Wages may increase with additional responsibilities or certifications, and some positions offer overtime pay or tips.

Is it hard to get a kitchen porter job?

Getting a kitchen porter job is generally accessible, as it often requires minimal prior experience and is considered an entry-level position. Employers typically look for reliability, ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and willingness to perform physical tasks. Availability of shifts and local demand can influence how easy it is to find a position.

What jobs does a kitchen porter do?

A kitchen porter is responsible for cleaning dishes, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment, as well as maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen area. They often assist with food preparation, waste disposal, and stock handling, working in a fast-paced environment that requires good hygiene practices and teamwork.

What qualifications do I need to be a kitchen porter?

Kitchen porters typically do not need formal qualifications but should have basic cleaning skills, physical stamina, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Some employers may prefer previous experience in a similar role or knowledge of health and safety standards. Good teamwork and reliability are also important qualities for this position.

What are popular job titles related to Kitchen Porter jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Kitchen Porter jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Kitchen Porter jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Kitchen Porter jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Kitchen Porter job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,859 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

kitchen porter (dishwasher) - Starbucks Reserve Kitchen Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Maintain cleanliness, organization, and sanitation across all kitchen and facility areas, including dishwashing, waste removal, and restocking supplies.

  • Clean and sanitize wares, equipment, and facility surfaces, and organize the dish room(s) to ensure proper storage of supplies.

  • Assist with routine maintenance and respond to the needs of chefs and kitchen staff to support smooth daily operations.


Job description

Now Baking - porter, Starbucks Reserve Kitchen
From the beginning, Starbucks set out to be a different kind of company. One that not only celebrated coffee and the rich tradition, but also brought a feeling of connection. We are known for developing extraordinary leaders who share this passion and are guided by service to others.
Starbucks Reserve is responsible for stewarding the Starbucks Reserve brand within a portfolio of unique flagship locations. Starbucks Reserve Stores and Culinary Kitchens across the US. Starbucks Reserve Kitchen teams use their knowledge and expertise to craft fresh food offerings with impeccable ingredients to inspire and delight customers in our Reserve & Roastery locations. These are energetic environments for culinary ambassadors who want to deliver consistent quality in handcrafted foods such as pastries, cakes, focaccia-style pizza and artisanal baked breads.
This position contributes to Reserve Kitchen's success by maintaining facilities daily.
The Porter is responsible for maintaining cleanliness, organization, and sanitation across all kitchen and facility areas, including dishwashing, waste removal, and restocking supplies. They play a key support role in ensuring smooth daily operations by assisting with routine maintenance and responding to the needs of chefs and kitchen staff.
Partner must model and act in accordance with Starbucks principles and company policies.
Responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following:
• Cleans and sanitizes wares, equipment and facility
• Organizing the dish room(s) and ensuring proper storage of all supplies
• Collecting, washing and sanitizing dishes while returning pots, pans, cutlery and other small wares back into use as quickly as possible while adhering to sanitation guidelines
• Washing and disinfecting kitchen appliances, work surfaces, floors and walls
• Removing and recycling, waste and compost from the kitchen and keeping their receptacles clean
• Performs other duties as assigned by their leader in support of the kitchen
We would love to hear from people with:
• 1+ years working in a professional kitchen - commercial a plus (preferred)
• Current Health Code Certification (as per State and Local DOH requirements) (preferred)
• Understanding of kitchen sanitation standards and handling of cleaning chemicals
Basic Qualifications
• Ability to work on your feet for long periods of time
• Ability to lift and carry 50lbs on a consistent basis
• Ability to adhere to strict personal hygiene and standards of dress consistent with policy
• Attention to Detail
• Basic Math and English skills
As a Starbucks partner, you (and your family) will have access to medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, and other voluntary insurance benefits. Partners have access to short-term and long-term disability, paid parental leave, family expansion reimbursement, paid vacation that accrues starting at .01961 hours based on a 40 hour week up to 40 hours annually (64 hours in California) after an introductory period, sick time (accrued at 1 hour for every 25 or 30 hours worked, depending on work location), and additional pay if working on one of eight observed holidays. Starbucks also offers eligible partners participation in a 401(k)-retirement plan with employer match, a discounted company stock program (S.I.P.), Starbucks equity program (Bean Stock), incentivized emergency savings, and financial well-being tools. Additionally, Starbucks offers 100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor's degree through Arizona State University's online program via the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, student loan management resources, and access to other educational opportunities. You will also have access to backup care and DACA reimbursement. Starbucks will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies. This list is subject to change depending on collective bargaining in locations where partners have a certified bargaining representative. For additional information regarding partner perks and more detailed information regarding benefits, go to starbucksbenefits.com.
At Starbucks, it is typical for new partners to be hired at the entry point of the range for their role, which is based upon geographic location. Individual compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate.
Join us and inspire with every cup. Apply today!
Starbucks Coffee Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with all federal, state and local ordinances.
Starbucks Coffee Company is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at applicantaccommodation@starbucks.com or 1(888) 611-2258.