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Substitute Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cook

VA · On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

... Support * Assist the Kitchen Manager in daily kitchen operations and food preparation tasks ... Wildwood Recovery Center recognizes that relevant experience may substitute for formal education ...

Line Chef

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen * Check out ...

Line Chef

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen * Check out ...

Line Chef

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen * Check out ...

Line Chef

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen * Check out ...

Line Chef

Suffolk, VA

$14 - $17.50/hr

Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen * Check out ...

Line Chef

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen * Check out ...

Line Chef

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen * Check out ...

Line Chef

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen * Check out ...

Line Chef

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen * Check out ...

... substitute when we're out of a recipe's ingredient or adjusting to new challenges with a positive ... Clean kitchen post-prep and manage kitchen tidiness Inventory Management & Errands: * Track and ...

... substitute when we're out of a recipe's ingredient or adjusting to new challenges with a positive ... Clean kitchen post-prep and manage kitchen tidiness Inventory Management & Errands: * Track and ...

Support Staff/Floater

Arcola, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Serve as a substitute teacher when a teacher is absent or unavailable. * Relieve teachers for ... Support Lead and Assistant Teachers in implementing age-appropriate curriculum, lesson plans, and ...

Line Cook

Surry, VA · On-site

$16/hr

... Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods. o Closes the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assists others in closing the kitchen. Checks ...

Line Cook

Surry, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $28.50/hr

... Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods. o Closes the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assists others in closing the kitchen. Checks ...

Line Cook

Surry, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $28.50/hr

... Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods. o Closes the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assists others in closing the kitchen. Checks ...

Line Cook

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen * Check out ...

Showing results 21-40

Substitute Kitchen Assistant information

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 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 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 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 is the difference between a kitchen helper and a substitute kitchen assistant?

A substitute kitchen assistant is a temporary worker who fills in for regular staff as needed, often with specific training or certifications. A kitchen helper typically performs routine tasks such as cleaning, prepping, and basic food preparation under supervision, and may be a regular or part-time employee. The main difference is that the substitute role is temporary and flexible, while a kitchen helper may have a more consistent, ongoing position.

What are popular job titles related to Substitute Kitchen Assistant jobs in Virginia?

For Substitute Kitchen Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substitute Kitchen Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Substitute Kitchen Assistant jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Substitute Kitchen Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

$13 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals for clients and staff in accordance with the facility's meal schedule, nutritional guidelines, and food safety standards. The Cook works under the supervision of the Kitchen Manager and assists in maintaining a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment while supporting daily food service operations.
Key Responsibilities
1. Meal Preparation & Food Service
  • Prepare and cook meals according to the facility's approved menu and meal schedule.
  • Ensure meals are prepared in appropriate portions and served on time for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and approved snacks.
  • Assist with food preparation tasks including chopping, measuring, portioning, and cooking food items.
  • Ensure meals meet general nutritional standards and accommodate dietary restrictions when directed.
  • Assist with meal service and ensure food is presented in a clean and organized manner.
2. Kitchen Operations & Support
  • Assist the Kitchen Manager in daily kitchen operations and food preparation tasks.
  • Maintain a clean and organized workspace during meal preparation.
  • Assist with unloading food deliveries and properly storing food supplies.
  • Rotate food inventory and monitor expiration dates to ensure food quality.
  • Support kitchen operations during high-volume meal service times.
3. Food Safety & Sanitation
  • Follow all food safety and sanitation procedures to prevent contamination and maintain a safe kitchen environment.
  • Maintain proper food storage practices including refrigeration, freezing, and dry storage.
  • Monitor food temperatures during cooking, holding, and serving as required by food safety standards.
  • Assist with cleaning and sanitizing kitchen equipment, utensils, food preparation surfaces, and dining areas.
  • Comply with all health department regulations and facility sanitation policies.
4. Facility Support & Team Collaboration
  • Work cooperatively with the Kitchen Manager and kitchen staff to ensure efficient meal preparation and service.
  • Communicate food supply needs or kitchen concerns to the Kitchen Manager.
  • Maintain professional conduct while working in a residential treatment environment.
  • Support program operations by maintaining a safe and respectful environment for clients and staff.

Our Mission
Helping people overcome addiction so each person thrives and builds a healthier, more meaningful life.
Our Values
THRIVES reflects the core values that guide how we serve our clients, support our staff, and shape our culture and standards of care.
  • Trust: We do what we say. Consistency builds trust.
  • Hospitality: We treat everyone with dignity and respect.
  • Responsibility: We own our work and follow through - and we don't make excuses.
  • Integrity: We do the right thing, always.
  • Value-Driven Care: We deliver care that truly makes a difference.
  • Excellence: We strive to improve every day and we don't cut corners.
  • Safety: We maintain a structured, high quality environment that prioritizes the safety and support of both clients and staff.

Why Work at Wildwood Recovery Center?
  • Be part of a supportive team that helps individuals on their journey to recovery and wellness.
  • We offer flexible scheduling from some positions and a supportive environment that values the well-being of our employees.
  • We are committed to fostering personal and professional growth within our team. Wildwood Recovery Center creates opportunities for employees to take on new responsibilities and grow within the recovery community.
  • Wildwood Recovery Center recognizes that relevant experience may substitute for formal education requirements when not required by regulation and/or credentialing.

What You Can Expect from Us
At Wildwood Recovery Center, our THRIVES values guide how we support our team and operate every day. We are committed to:
  • Providing the tools, training, and leadership support you need to succeed and grow in your role.
  • Operating a reliable, well-structured program that promotes quality care, stability, and long-term success.
  • Recognizing and rewarding meaningful contributions while prioritizing internal advancement based on merit and performance.
  • Maintaining open communication and a respectful, psychologically safe workplace grounded in trust, excellence, accountability, compassion, hospitality, and safety.

What We Expect from You
  • As an employee at Wildwood Recovery Center, you are expected to:
  • Execute your responsibilities accurately, efficiently, and with a strong sense of ownership.
  • Collaborate professionally with colleagues and leadership to strengthen team performance and culture.
  • Treat clients, families, and team members with dignity, respect, and professionalism at all times.
  • Actively support a safe, structured, recovery-focused environment where both clients and staff can thrive.

About Wildwood Recovery Center
Wildwood Recovery Center is a compassionate, client-centered treatment facility located in Clintwood, Virginia that is dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives from substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. We believe that recovery is possible for everyone and are committed to providing evidence-based care, education, and peer-driven support in a safe and nurturing environment. Our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively to foster healing, growth, and long-term wellness through personalized treatment and community connection.
Requirements
Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Previous experience in food service, commercial kitchen operations, or institutional cooking preferred.
  • Basic knowledge of food safety practices required.
  • Food safety certification (such as ServSafe Food Handler) preferred or required within a specified timeframe.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Reliable transportation to and from the facility.
  • Must be able to pass a state and federal background check and drug screening per Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) regulations.
Skills and Abilities Needed for Success
  • Basic knowledge of food preparation, cooking methods, and kitchen safety practices.
  • Ability to follow recipes and meal plans accurately.
  • Knowledge of food sanitation and food handling procedures.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced commercial kitchen environment.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to work cooperatively with kitchen staff and facility personnel.
  • Ability to maintain a clean and sanitary work environment.
  • Work is performed in a commercial kitchen environment.
  • Requires standing for extended periods, lifting food supplies, and working near kitchen equipment and heat sources.
  • May require early morning, evening, weekend, or holiday shifts depending on meal service schedules.