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School Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Gilbert School District

High School Cook

Gilbert, IA · On-site

$18/hr

Kitchen Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Status: Part time 6 hr Starting Salary: $18.00 per hour ... Support special meals, catering, and district events as assigned. * Assist with training new ...

Gilbert

High School Cook

Gilbert, IA

$18/hr

Kitchen Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Status: Part time 6 hr Starting Salary: $18.00 per hour ... Support special meals, catering, and district events as assigned. * Assist with training new ...

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School Kitchen Assistant information

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How much do school kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for school kitchen assistant in Iowa is $14.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $15.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between School Kitchen Assistant vs School Cook?

AspectSchool Kitchen AssistantSchool Cook
CredentialsBasic food safety certification, on-the-job trainingFood safety certification, culinary skills, possibly culinary or nutrition qualifications
Work EnvironmentAssist in food prep, serve meals, clean kitchen areasPrepare, cook, and oversee meal production in school kitchens
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational institutionsSchools, educational institutions
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a School Kitchen Assistant and a School Cook lies in their responsibilities and required skills. The School Kitchen Assistant primarily supports food prep, serving, and cleaning, often with minimal certifications. In contrast, the School Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking meals, often requiring culinary skills and certifications. Both roles work within school environments and are essential for student meal services, but the School Cook typically has a more advanced role in meal preparation.

What challenges do school kitchen assistants face and how can they be managed?

School kitchen assistants often face challenges such as working efficiently during busy lunch periods, maintaining strict food safety standards, and adapting to varying dietary needs among students. Effective management involves strong time-management skills, teamwork, and staying up to date with food hygiene training. Many schools offer on-the-job guidance and ongoing support to help kitchen assistants succeed, making it a great environment for those who enjoy a fast-paced, collaborative workplace.

What is a school kitchen assistant?

School kitchen assistants help prepare and serve food to students and staff in educational settings. Their duties typically include assisting with meal preparation, cleaning kitchen equipment, setting up serving areas, and ensuring food safety and hygiene standards are maintained. They may also help with receiving deliveries, storing supplies, and supporting cooks or chefs as needed. School kitchen assistants play a key role in providing nutritious meals and maintaining a clean, safe kitchen environment.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a school kitchen assistant?

To thrive as a School Kitchen Assistant, you generally need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food hygiene, and sometimes a Level 2 Food Safety certificate. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, portion control systems, and cleaning protocols is often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and good communication skills help you work efficiently and maintain a positive environment. These skills ensure that meals are prepared safely and efficiently, supporting students' health and the smooth operation of the school kitchen.
What are the most commonly searched types of School Kitchen jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of School Kitchen jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for School Kitchen Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most School Kitchen Assistant job openings:
School Kitchen Assistant jobs near you

Food and Nutrition Services Head Cook - 8 hrs/day (190 days/school year calendar)

Davenport Community Schools

Davenport, IA • On-site

$17.16/hr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago

Davenport Community School District rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 622 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICES HEAD COOK - 8 HRS/DAY (190 days/school year calendar)

SMART MIDDLE

6:00 AM - 2:00 PM

INTERNAL BIDDERS:  OPEN THRU 7/7/26 @ 4 P.M.  INTERNAL BIDDERS MUST APPLY BY COMPLETING AN INTERNAL APPLICATION VIA THE DISTRICT WEBSITE.

All other current district employees (not FNS), or external applicants apply online by completing the external application.

EXTERNAL APPLICANTS (will hire externally if no internal bidders): OPEN UNTIL FILLED

Rate of pay: $17.16/hr (up to a maximum $1,000.00/school year Differential Stipend is available)

Duties & Responsibilities:  (Essential Functions of Position, Major Responsibilities, Summary of Key Duties, Special Assignments, Relationships)

1.   Prepares foods by using standardized recipes, accepted food production methods and appropriate school kitchen equipment.

2.   May develop new standardized recipes using accepted food production methods and appropriate school kitchen equipment.

3.   Safely operates school kitchen equipment.  Inspects periodically; Recommends needed maintenance and repairs.

4.   Assists manager in supervision and direction of food service personnel.

5.   Assists the manager in preparing orders for food and supplies.

6.   Assists in control of food and supply costs with stock rotation, proper storage and handling, portion control and use of excess

      food production.

7.  May assist with kitchen clean up and proper storage of leftovers.

8.  Assists in setting up service areas, portioning, and/or serving food items.

9.   Maintains standards of sanitation, safety, production, service, and food quality.

10.   Has the ability to communicate effectively and work as a team with fellow employees and supervisors.

11.  Maintains good public relations with students, parents, faculty, and the community.

12.  May assist in finalizing the menu plan and adjusts food production schedules accordingly.

13.  Completes and maintains food production records.

14.  Ensures proper food presentation and quality for our customers.

15.  Has the ability to plan workload, forecast requirements and coordinate food production.

16.  Assists manager with production and service of catered functions.

17. May be required to cover in buildings other than the one assigned.

18.  Performs other duties as may be assigned.

Physical Requirements of Position:  (HBV  ? Yes  ? No)

  • The Head Cook is physically able to work in a standing position for prolonged periods and to walk much of the time during the day;  is able to work in very warm surroundings; has manual dexterity to handle knives and other pieces of kitchen equipment, and is able to lift materials weighing at least 46 pounds.   May be required to climb stairs.         

Special Qualification Required/ Desired:  (Personal Qualities, Education, Skills Needed, Experience, Etc.)

  • EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE - The School Food Service Head Cook shall possess competence in the above stated areas of responsibility.  It is required that the Head Cook have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Maintain ServSafe Certification (6 months to obtain certification)

The Davenport Community School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.



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