It will not be boring - these tasks are waiting for you as a kitchen assistant

Do you fancy a varied job? Then a job as a kitchen assistant could be just the thing for you. The range of tasks is broad and differs depending on where you are looking for a job. While in large kitchens the focus is on preparing food and organizing the kitchen, in social institutions you work close to people by serving meals. In this article, we'll show you what you need to do as a kitchen assistant and how the tasks differ depending on the industry.

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Job Vacancies: Kitchen helper jobs vary in duties & salary.

Kitchen assistants are sought in many different areas. This includes, of course, the catering industry with restaurants and hotel kitchens. But smaller cafés and bistros can also use help in their kitchens. If you enjoy contact with people, employment in social institutions such as kindergartens or nursing homes is also possible. Depending on what you choose, the tasks and salary will change. 

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Make it big: Activities in the commercial kitchen

Most jobs for kitchen assistants are in the catering industry: from 5-star restaurants and hotel kitchens to canteens in large companies. Here, kitchen assistants support the chefs, for example by helping with the preparation of meals. This includes, above all, preparing the ingredients: Measuring, washing and cutting the required food. In addition, kitchen aids perform basic cooking tasks such as reducing sauces or cooking simpler dishes. 

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In commercial kitchens, the organization and handling of tasks must be planned precisely and carried out reliably. The activities of a kitchen assistant therefore include the storage and labeling of food and kitchen utensils. But also the washing up and cleaning up the kitchen are part of the tasks.

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Bistro and café: look for work with smaller teams

Rather have a smaller team than a large kitchen? No problem. Small restaurants are also looking for kitchen help. Here, the tasks are often distributed a little less strictly. This means that you'll be given different tasks each day, depending on what's coming up. These are similar to those in a large kitchen. So you'll help prepare dishes and organize the kitchen. In contrast to the commercial kitchens, activities with direct customer contact are also possible here, such as serving the dishes.

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Application in nursing home, kindergarten or hospital

Is direct contact with people your priority? Then you can apply as a kitchen assistant in kindergartens or nursing homes. In addition to preparing meals and tidying up the kitchen, your tasks here will primarily include distributing food. You will also often have to make coffee or tea. You can also apply to work in canteens in hospitals. Here you will have to help with the preparation and preparation of meals as well as with the organization and serving of meals.

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Summary of duties as a kitchen assistant

Here again all tasks are clearly summarized for you:

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Preparation and preparation of the dishes

• Measure ingredients and spices 
• Wash and prepare vegetables
• Prepare simple dishes and sauces

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Organization and disposal

• Label and store ingredients
• Clean up kitchen and dispose of garbage
• Rinse and dry dishes 
• Clean surfaces and kitchen utensils

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Other activities

• Serve or distribute food
• Perform other kitchen duties as directed
• Adhere to nutritional and hygienic guidelines

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Part-time or full-time? Kitchen helpers are wanted for both

Which and how many tasks you are assigned also depends on your working hours. As a kitchen assistant, you have the option of working part-time or full-time. The more hours you work, the more tasks you will be assigned. When you apply for a job, you should pay attention to whether you will also be asked to work on weekends or late at night. You may be asked to work in the breakfast area at social service organizations or to prepare dinner at restaurants.

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Whether Berlin, Munich or Vienna - Find a job nearby

The tasks as a kitchen assistant are therefore very versatile, just like the possible employers. Whether you live in Munich or Berlin or want to move to Vienna, kitchen helpers are wanted everywhere. So look around in your area and compare the job offers carefully. Although the activities are often similar, the focus is often on different tasks depending on the industry. You should also pay attention to the working hours and shift work, so that the job fits your life.

FAQ

What are the duties of a kitchen assistant?

The duties of a kitchen assistant include preparing and cooking food: for example, measuring ingredients and spices, washing vegetables, preparing simple dishes and sauces. In addition, the kitchen assistant is responsible for organizing the kitchen and disposing of waste. But also the distribution and serving of food as well as the compliance with nutritional and hygienic guidelines are part of the tasks.

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Where can I work as a kitchen assistant?

Kitchen helpers can choose from a variety of employers. On the one hand, large, but also smaller restaurants and hotels are often looking for kitchen assistants. You can also work in social institutions such as kindergartens, hospitals and nursing homes. In addition, there are large companies that have a canteen for their employees or customers. Another tip for travel enthusiasts: cruise ships and excursion boats are also often looking for kitchen assistants.

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What do you need to be a kitchen assistant?

As a kitchen assistant, you usually do not need any training or previous experience, as you will be instructed when you start work. However, a health certificate is regularly required, as you will come into contact with food. How successful your application will be depends on how reliable and physically resilient you are. Some tasks may require you to lift heavy pots and pans or stand for hours.

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What does a kitchen assistant earn on average?

A kitchen assistant earns between €12 and €15 per hour, depending on the employer. In some jobs you can also expect tips.

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