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Kitchen Utility Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Utility Associate

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$11.25 - $14.25/hr

POSITION SUMMARY As a Kitchen Utility Associate (Dishwasher) in our community's restaurant, you help ensure our culinary team has clean pots to prepare delicious meals and dishware to deliver the ...

Kitchen Utility Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

POSITION SUMMARY As a Kitchen Utility Associate (Dishwasher) in our community's restaurant, you help ensure our culinary team has clean pots to prepare delicious meals and dishware to deliver the ...

Requirement : 4 years of prior kitchen utility experience required. * Fixed Pay Rate : $18.00 per hour. WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU A fun work environment, robust benefits package, great team members, and a ...

Kitchen Utility/Dishwasher - Haven

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$12 - $15.50/hr

THE ROLE Chetola Resort is seeking a reliable and hardworking Utility/Dishwasher team member to help maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen environment. This essential back-of-house role ...

Requirement : 4 years of prior kitchen utility experience required. * Fixed Pay Rate : $18.00 per hour. WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU A fun work environment, robust benefits package, great team members, and a ...

Requirement : 4 years of prior kitchen utility experience required. * Fixed Pay Rate : $18.00 per hour. WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU A fun work environment, robust benefits package, great team members, and a ...

Utility Worker As a Utility Worker, you will be responsible for maintaining kitchen work areas, equipment, and utensils to ensure cleanliness and efficiency. This role involves handling various ...

Utility/Dish

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$13 - $17/hr

Utility/Dishwasher Say Hello to Birdie ... At the center of Raleigh's Fayetteville Street resurgence is Birdie's Barroom & Kitchen. This ...

Utility

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

Utility/Dishwasher Say Hello to Birdie ... At the center of Raleigh's Fayetteville Street resurgence is Birdie's Barroom & Kitchen. This ...

Utility

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

Utility/Dishwasher Say Hello to Birdie ... At the center of Raleigh's Fayetteville Street resurgence is Birdie's Barroom & Kitchen. This ...

DISHWASHER / UTILITY

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$13 - $17/hr

Utility/Dishwasher Welcome to Vidrio Vidrio is a colorful window into the flavors and soul of the Mediterranean kitchen. A creative expression of the passion, people, and lifestyle that have embodied ...

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Kitchen Utility information

See Durham, NC salary details

$7

$13

$17

How much do kitchen utility jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen utility in Durham, NC is $13.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.07 and $15.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kitchen utility?

Kitchen utility workers are staff members in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments who are responsible for maintaining cleanliness and organization in the kitchen. Their duties typically include washing dishes, cleaning kitchen equipment and surfaces, taking out trash, and assisting with basic food preparation tasks. They play a crucial role in ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly and meets health and safety standards. Kitchen utility workers often support chefs and cooks by keeping supplies stocked and work areas tidy. This position is essential to the overall efficiency and hygiene of any food service operation.

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

To thrive as a Kitchen Utility, you need basic food safety knowledge, attention to cleanliness, and the ability to handle physical tasks, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial dishwashing machines, cleaning agents, and kitchen sanitation systems is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are essential soft skills for supporting kitchen operations. These skills are important to maintain a safe, efficient, and hygienic kitchen environment, which is critical for food service success.

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

Kitchen utility workers often face challenges such as maintaining a fast pace during busy service hours, handling potentially hazardous cleaning chemicals, and managing repetitive tasks like dishwashing. Effective time management, attention to safety protocols, and teamwork are essential for overcoming these obstacles. Staying organized and communicating clearly with kitchen staff helps ensure tasks are completed efficiently and the kitchen runs smoothly.

What is the difference between Kitchen Utility vs Kitchen Steward?

AspectKitchen UtilityKitchen Steward
CredentialsNone required or basic food safety certificationsTypically similar, may require food safety training
Work EnvironmentKitchen, food prep areas, dishwashing stationsKitchen, dishwashing, cleaning areas
Employer & Industry UsageHotels, restaurants, catering servicesHotels, restaurants, institutional kitchens
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Kitchen Utility and Kitchen Steward roles are often used interchangeably, focusing on cleaning, dishwashing, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. Both positions support kitchen operations by ensuring hygiene standards are met. The main difference is that 'Kitchen Steward' is a more traditional term, often used in hospitality industries, while 'Kitchen Utility' may be more common in modern or diverse food service settings. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, making them closely related in the food service industry.

What does a kitchen utility do?

A kitchen utility worker is responsible for cleaning dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment, as well as maintaining cleanliness and organization in the kitchen. They often assist with food prep tasks and ensure the kitchen environment meets health and safety standards. Basic knowledge of sanitation procedures and the use of cleaning tools is typically required.

What are popular job titles related to Kitchen Utility jobs in Durham, NC?

For Kitchen Utility jobs in Durham, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Kitchen Utility jobs in Durham, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Kitchen Utility jobs in Durham, NC are:

Infographic showing various Kitchen Utility job openings in Durham, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $29,005 per year, or $13.9 per hour.

Kitchen Utility Associate

Durham, NC

$15 - $16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description

THE COMPANY

Cogir Senior Living, based in Scottsdale, Arizona, proudly oversees a network of senior living communities spanning 11 states nationwide. As a trusted leader in senior housing, we are dedicated to growth while maintaining our commitment to exceptional care for our residents and a supportive, growth-focused environment for our team members.


At Cogir, our culture is rooted in the core values of human focus, creativity, and excellence, which inspire us to continuously improve and achieve excellence in all we do. Join us in our mission to enrich the lives of our residents while building a meaningful and fulfilling career!

WHAT WE OFFER

  • Competitive wages, training, and growth opportunities.
  • Early access to paycheck (pay on demand).
  • Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
  • Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Sick Leave.
  • 401K with company match.
  • Free meals at work.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Generous Employee Referral Program and more.

POSITION SUMMARY

As a Kitchen Utility Associate (Dishwasher) in our community's restaurant, you help ensure our culinary team has clean pots to prepare delicious meals and dishware to deliver the meals to our residents. Our residents' dining experience begins with you.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Wash and sanitize dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment according to established protocols.
  • Ensure all cleaned items are properly dried and stored in their designated areas.
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the dishwashing area, including sweeping and mopping floors.
  • Promptly remove trash, recycling, and food waste to help keep the kitchen organized and free of clutter.
  • Clean mats and garbage pails.
  • Clean and sanitize food preparation surfaces, storage areas, and kitchen equipment as needed.
  • Support the kitchen staff during meal preparation and service by replenishing supplies and equipment.
  • Resupply chemicals, towel dispensers, and soap dispensers are required for sanitary operations.


Requirements

CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS

Education and certificates:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred but not required.
  • A Food Handler Card with an understanding of kitchen sanitation and food codes is a plus. 

Experience, Competencies, and Skills:

  • At least 6-12 months of experience in a dishwasher or kitchen support role is a plus, but not required. 
  • Previous experience in senior living, healthcare, or hospitality settings is highly desirable.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining cleanliness.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
  • Must be able to lift or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Comfortable working in hot, humid, and wet environments.
  • Availability to work flexible shifts, including weekends and holidays.