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Substitute Kitchen Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Substitute Kitchen Helper

Manning, IA

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Substitute Kitchen Helper - Lunchtime Solutions Location: On-site at IKM Manning School District ... Maintain food safety and compliance Follow food‑safety steps, complete basic logs, assist with ...

Substitute Kitchen Helper

Murdo, SD · On-site

$14.50 - $16.75/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Substitute Kitchen Helper - Lunchtime Solutions Location: On-site at Jones County School District ... Maintain food safety and compliance Follow food‑safety steps, complete basic logs, assist with ...

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Substitute Kitchen Assistant information

See salary details

$8

$16

$25

How much do substitute kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for substitute kitchen assistant in the United States is $16.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Substitute Kitchen Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectSubstitute Kitchen AssistantKitchen Helper
CredentialsMay require food safety certificationUsually no formal certification needed
Work EnvironmentSchools, hospitals, catering servicesRestaurants, cafeterias, institutional kitchens
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and healthcare institutionsFood service establishments and restaurants
Job RoleAssists in food prep, cleaning, and supporting kitchen staffPerforms basic food prep, cleaning, and assisting cooks

The Substitute Kitchen Assistant and Kitchen Helper roles share similar duties like food prep and cleaning, but the Substitute Kitchen Assistant often works in institutional settings and may require food safety certifications. The Kitchen Helper typically works in restaurants or cafeterias with less formal credential requirements. Both roles support kitchen operations but differ mainly in work environment and certification needs.

What qualifications do I need to be a substitute kitchen assistant?

To become a substitute kitchen assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require food safety training or certifications such as ServSafe, and previous experience in food service can be beneficial. Good communication skills, the ability to follow instructions, and flexibility in scheduling are also important.

How much is the salary of a substitute kitchen assistant?

The salary of a substitute kitchen assistant typically ranges from $10 to $15 per hour, depending on the location, employer, and experience. These positions often require basic food safety certifications and may offer part-time or temporary schedules.

What is a substitute kitchen assistant?

Substitute kitchen assistants are temporary staff members who fill in for regular kitchen personnel in settings such as schools, hospitals, or cafeterias when they are absent. Their duties typically include assisting with food preparation, serving meals, cleaning kitchen areas, and following food safety guidelines. Substitute kitchen assistants must be adaptable and able to quickly learn the routines and standards of different kitchens. This role is essential for maintaining smooth kitchen operations and ensuring that meal services are not disrupted.

What are some common challenges faced by a substitute kitchen assistant, and how can I prepare for them?

As a Substitute Kitchen Assistant, you may face challenges such as quickly adapting to different kitchen environments, learning new routines on the spot, and managing time efficiently during busy meal periods. Flexibility and strong communication skills are essential, as you’ll often work with various team members and supervisors at different locations. Preparing by familiarizing yourself with basic food safety protocols and efficient kitchen workflows can help you perform confidently and contribute positively, even when stepping into unfamiliar settings.

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

To thrive as a Substitute Kitchen Assistant, you should have basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food handling protocols, and sometimes a food handler's permit are typically required. Reliability, flexibility, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for adapting to different kitchen environments and supporting staff. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining food quality, safety, and smooth operation in busy or changing kitchen settings.

What cities are hiring for Substitute Kitchen Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Substitute Kitchen Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Substitute Kitchen Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Substitute Kitchen Assistant jobs include:

Infographic showing various Substitute Kitchen Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,721 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Districtwide Substitute Kitchen Assistant

Richfield Public Schools

Richfield, MN • On-site

$19.88/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Food and Nutrition Services/Substitute Kitchen Assistants
Date Posted:
8/5/2026
Location:
Multi-Building
The Richfield Public School District is now accepting applications for a part-time Districtwide Substitute Kitchen Assistant for the 2026-2027 school year. Under the direction of the Supervisor of Food Services and Kitchen Production Manager, the Kitchen Assistant will perform a variety of duties including preparation, meal serving and clean up as directed in a manner that contributes to the safe and efficient operation at the kitchen site as well as complying with guidelines set by the National School Meal programs.
The Richfield Public School District is in the heart of the Twin Cities Metropolitan area and serves a diverse student population in Richfield and the surrounding communities. The Richfield Public Schools are committed to preparing all students for success in a changing world.
Qualifications:
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Food service experience.

Schedule:
  • 5 hours per day
  • 9 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.

Pay Rate: $19.88 per hour (All substitutes are placed at the Step 1 for the position they're subbing for).
Click here to see contract and benefit information under our Food and Nutrition agreement.
Application deadline: Position is open until filled.