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If you’ve Googled “Kitchen Helper job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again:
A long list of bullet points.
No context.
No personality.
Just a generic wall of text with phrases like “must be able to lift 25 pounds” and “assist in food prep.”
But here’s the truth: those types of job posts don’t attract great candidates.
They attract desperate ones. Or worse—people who don’t even read the post before applying.
If you want someone who’s reliable, team-oriented, and actually wants to work in your kitchen—you need to give them a reason to apply.
And that starts with how you write the job post.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to do it right.
We’ll break down what a Kitchen Helper actually does, share two proven job description templates (one for experienced hires and one for entry-level), and explain why most job posts fail to connect with the right people. We’ll also include bonus tips, an AI usage warning, and a quick-copy version you can adapt in minutes.
And if you haven’t already, I highly recommend reading our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/
It breaks down the difference between a job description that ticks boxes and one that actually brings in great applicants.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What A Kitchen Helper Actually Does - Their Roles
A Kitchen Helper isn’t just someone who washes dishes or preps vegetables—they’re the heartbeat of a smooth kitchen.
They make sure chefs can focus on cooking by handling the behind-the-scenes tasks that keep everything running on time. That could mean cleaning stations, organizing supplies, preparing ingredients, or helping with simple cooking tasks during busy shifts.
In smaller kitchens, Kitchen Helpers often wear multiple hats—doing a bit of everything. In larger kitchens, they may be assigned to a specific area, like dishwashing, food prep, or cleaning.
But regardless of size, this role is all about hustle, teamwork, and reliability. If your Kitchen Helper doesn’t show up, the whole operation slows down. That’s why hiring someone dependable, hardworking, and quick on their feet is more important than just looking for someone with kitchen experience.
It’s a role where attitude matters just as much as skills.
Two Great Kitchen Helper Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
🍳 Job Description Template #1 – For Experienced Kitchen Helpers
Job Title: Kitchen Helper Needed at Rosa’s Coastal Grill (Evening Shift, Full-Time)
📍 Location: San Diego, CA | 💼 Type: Full-Time | ⏰ Shift: 2PM–10PM | 💰 $16–$18/hr (Based on Experience)
🎥 A Quick Word From the Hiring Manager
Before you apply, take a minute to hear from Maria, our kitchen manager. She shares what the team is like, how we operate, and what we’re looking for:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Video Link]
Who We Are
Rosa’s Coastal Grill is a family-owned seafood restaurant in the heart of San Diego, known for our Baja-style fish tacos, garlic shrimp bowls, and friendly service. We’ve been part of the local food scene for over 12 years and pride ourselves on our tight-knit kitchen crew and consistently fresh flavors.
What You’ll Do
✔️ Prep ingredients (wash, chop, portion) for cooks
✔️ Clean kitchen stations, dishes, and equipment
✔️ Restock food, supplies, and line items as needed
✔️ Follow sanitation and food safety procedures
✔️ Assist with trash, cleanup, and closing duties
✔️ Jump in to support chefs during busy rushes
What We’re Looking For
✅ 6+ months in a commercial kitchen or fast-paced food environment
✅ Comfortable with physical work (lifting, standing, moving fast)
✅ Punctual, respectful, and great under pressure
✅ Knows how to follow direction and work well in a team
✅ Valid food handler’s card (or able to get one quickly)
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t a job where you feel invisible. You’ll be part of a respectful, high-energy team that appreciates hard work. We promote from within, reward consistency, and value people who treat others well. Our chefs are supportive, and you’ll get daily exposure to hands-on kitchen training.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- $16–$18/hr, paid weekly
- Staff meals every shift
- Weekend bonus pay
- Closed Mondays (guaranteed day off)
- 15% off meals for family & friends
- Health insurance after 90 days
- Opportunity to move into line cook roles with training
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate applicants fairly and quickly. No resumes, no guessing games. Just a short, skills-based evaluation to help us see how you think and work.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
🌱 Job Description Template #2 – For Entry-Level or Willing-to-Train Candidates
Job Title: Entry-Level Kitchen Helper – No Experience Needed at Rosa’s Coastal Grill
📍 Location: San Diego, CA | 💼 Type: Part-Time | ⏰ Shift: Flexible | 💰 $15–$16/hr
🎥 Watch This Before You Apply
Our head chef Javier recorded a short video explaining what it’s like to work at Rosa’s and why attitude matters more than experience:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
Who We Are
Rosa’s Coastal Grill is a well-loved seafood spot located just minutes from Ocean Beach. We’re a close team that values hustle, respect, and fresh food done right. Whether it’s prepping tacos or helping clean up at the end of the shift, every person on our team plays an important role.
What You’ll Do
✔️ Learn to prep basic ingredients (cut veggies, portion sauces)
✔️ Keep dishes, utensils, and stations clean
✔️ Assist cooks with simple kitchen tasks
✔️ Take out trash, wipe surfaces, and follow safety standards
✔️ Help with restocking and kitchen organization
What We’re Looking For
✅ No experience needed—we’ll train you
✅ A strong work ethic and great attitude
✅ Able to lift 30 lbs and move quickly during rush hours
✅ Shows up on time, ready to help
✅ Someone who wants to grow and learn in a kitchen setting
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
If you’re reliable, willing to learn, and want to break into the restaurant world—this is your shot. We’ll teach you kitchen basics, give you a supportive team, and help you build confidence with real kitchen experience. And we make sure everyone on the team feels heard and respected.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- $15–$16/hr starting pay
- Flexible scheduling for students and parents
- Staff meals on every shift
- Weekend shift bonuses
- Paid breaks
- Mentorship from experienced chefs
- Opportunities for internal promotion
📥 How to Apply
We don’t need a long resume or fancy cover letter. Just complete a short, structured evaluation through WorkScreen. It’s fast, fair, and helps us get to know you beyond just bullet points.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Breakdown of Why These Kitchen Helper Job Posts Work
Let’s break down why the Rosa’s Coastal Grill job descriptions attract better candidates—and how each element contributes to that.
1. The Job Title Is Specific and Real
✅ Instead of: “Kitchen Assistant”
You wrote: “Kitchen Helper Needed at Rosa’s Coastal Grill (Evening Shift, Full-Time)”
This instantly tells applicants:
- The exact role
- Where they’ll be working
- When the shifts are
- That this is a real company, not a vague listing
It filters in relevant candidates—and filters out those just blindly clicking “apply.”
2. Video from the Hiring Manager Builds Trust
A short Loom or YouTube video from a real person gives your post warmth and credibility.
Applicants feel like:
“Wow, I can actually see who I’ll be working with.”
It humanizes your brand and creates emotional connection before the interview ever happens.
3. “Who We Are” Is Not a Corporate Template
Most companies use a copy-pasted paragraph filled with jargon.
But here, Rosa’s story is:
- Specific (family-owned, 12 years in San Diego)
- Local (ties into the Ocean Beach community)
- Grounded in real food and people
It makes applicants feel like they’re applying to a place, not a post.
4. The Role Description Shows Purpose, Not Just Tasks
The tasks aren’t just listed—they’re framed with context:
“You’ll be the go-to person who keeps our kitchen running smoothly.”
This helps applicants understand why their role matters—not just what they’ll be doing. That’s what gives pride and purpose to hands-on work.
5. Qualifications Feel Inclusive
Instead of scaring off candidates with rigid requirements, you clearly differentiate:
- ✅ Version 1: For experienced candidates
- 🌱 Version 2: For people with no experience but strong work ethic
This opens the door to motivated individuals who might otherwise count themselves out.
6. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Builds an Emotional Hook
This section speaks directly to what great candidates care about:
- Respect
- Growth
- Team support
- Being treated like a person, not a number
You’re not just filling a shift—you’re pitching a real opportunity.
7. Perks & Benefits Are Clear and Practical
You include what matters:
- Staff meals
- Bonuses
- Paid time off
- Flexible scheduling
- Promotion paths
These aren’t fluff perks—they speak to the real needs of hourly team members, which builds trust.
8. The Application Process Respects Their Time
WorkScreen is positioned as a modern, fast, and fair application method—no resume, no ghosting, no black hole. You tell candidates:
“We’ll actually look at your application. You’ll hear back. And we care about your time.”
That alone sets you apart from 90% of job posts.
✅ All of this combined shows that this isn’t just a job post—it’s a real opportunity written by someone who respects the applicant.
Bad Kitchen Helper Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Kitchen Assistant
Company: XYZ Restaurant
Job Type: Full-Time
Location: Not Specified
Salary: Not Disclosed
Job Summary
XYZ Restaurant is hiring a kitchen assistant to support back-of-house operations. The role includes food prep, cleaning, and other duties as assigned.
Key Responsibilities
● Wash dishes and utensils
● Clean and sanitize work areas
● Assist with food preparation
● Follow instructions from kitchen staff
● Dispose of garbage properly
Requirements
● High school diploma or equivalent
● 1–2 years of kitchen experience preferred
● Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
● Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs
● Good communication skills
How to Apply
Send your resume and cover letter to hr@xyzrestaurant.com
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🔍 Why This Job Post Falls Flat
Let’s break down what’s wrong with this listing—and how it pushes great candidates away.
1. Generic Job Title
“Kitchen Assistant” says nothing about where, when, or what kind of kitchen.
There’s no personality, no context, and no clarity. This could be a ghost job—or a low-effort copy-paste. Top candidates will skip it.
2. Zero Insight Into the Company
There’s no story, no culture, no location, not even a sentence about what makes XYZ Restaurant worth working for.
Candidates aren’t just applying to a job—they’re applying to a workplace. If you don’t tell them what kind of place they’re joining, you’re giving them no reason to care.
3. No Mention of Pay or Perks
No salary. No benefits. Not even a meal discount.
This immediately triggers doubt in the applicant’s mind:
- “Is this even real?”
- “Are they hiding the pay because it’s bad?”
- “Will I be treated fairly here?”
Lack of transparency makes you look out of touch—or worse, untrustworthy.
4. Responsibilities Are Dry and Vague
“Assist with food preparation” and “other duties as assigned” tells the applicant nothing meaningful.
There’s no clear picture of what the day-to-day looks like, how their work helps the team, or what they’ll actually be doing.
5. The Hiring Process Feels Cold
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.”
This line may be common—but it’s also discouraging. It tells the applicant:
“If we’re not interested, we won’t even bother to reply.”
Respectful hiring starts with treating applicants like people, not disposable options.
6. No Personality, No Connection
There’s no warmth, no excitement, no “why”—just a wall of text. And in a sea of job posts, this one disappears fast.
✅ Bottom line: This post checks administrative boxes, but it does nothing to connect with the kind of person you actually want to hire.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
Once you’ve written a clear, respectful, and specific job post, here are a few final touches that can make it even better—especially if you’re trying to attract dependable, hard-working talent in high-turnover roles like Kitchen Helper.
🔒 1. Add an “Important Notice” to Build Trust
There’s a lot of hiring scams online. Add a quick statement to show applicants that you’re legit and that you take their safety seriously.
📌 Example:
Important Notice: We care about your privacy. Rosa’s Coastal Grill will never ask you for payment, banking details, or sensitive personal information during the hiring process.
This helps applicants feel safe applying—and makes you look like a professional, trustworthy employer.
⏸ 2. Mention Time Off or Leave Days
If you offer even basic flexibility, say so. In fast-paced roles like this, just knowing there’s room to breathe goes a long way in attracting reliable talent.
📌 Example:
Enjoy up to 24 hours of paid time off annually—so you can recharge and come back strong.
Even a small benefit like this signals that you value your staff as people—not just labor.
📈 3. Highlight Training and Growth Opportunities
If you’re open to training someone or promoting them to a line cook or prep cook position later, say it. Many job seekers are looking for more than just a paycheck—they’re looking for a path.
📌 Example:
We invest in your growth. If you show up consistently and work hard, we’ll train you on new kitchen skills and help you grow into more advanced roles.
🎥 4. Add a Loom or YouTube Video to Humanize the Role
This is one of the most powerful things you can do. A 60-second video from your chef, kitchen manager, or owner showing the team, the workspace, and the vibe makes your post immediately stand out.
📌 Example:
“Here’s a quick video from our head chef Javier explaining what it’s like to work in our kitchen.”
When people see your team, they feel more comfortable applying—especially if they’re new to the industry.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✅ Bonus: Mention How Fast & Fair Your Hiring Process Is
People are tired of ghosting, slow responses, and robotic applications. If your process is fast and respectful, call that out.
📌 Example:
“We reply to every applicant. You’ll know where you stand—no guessing games.”
That line alone can increase trust and applications.
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
These days, almost every ATS or hiring platform seems to offer a “1-click AI-generated job post” feature. Tools like Manatal, Workable, and even ChatGPT can crank out a job description in seconds.
But here’s the problem:
Speed doesn’t mean quality.
And when you rely on AI alone, your job post starts sounding just like everyone else’s.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Use AI Blindly
If you simply type “Write a job description for a Kitchen Helper” and paste what comes out, here’s what usually happens:
- You get generic, lifeless copy that fails to reflect your company’s values, culture, or vibe
- The post ends up sounding like a policy manual, not an invitation to join a real team
- It attracts low-effort applicants who are applying to dozens of jobs without even reading them
- And worst of all, it repels high-quality candidates who are looking for roles they can feel proud of
Remember: your job post is often the first impression of your business. Don’t blow it by using a copy-paste AI output.
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI
AI can actually be very helpful—if you feed it the right inputs.
Here’s how to use it like a pro:
Step 1: Give AI Real Details
Don’t start with “Write me a Kitchen Helper job post.”
Start with what you already know.
Here’s an example of what to give the AI:
“We’re Rosa’s Coastal Grill, a seafood spot in San Diego. We’re hiring a Kitchen Helper to assist with food prep, cleaning, and back-of-house organization. Our team is tight-knit, respectful, and fast-paced. We care more about attitude than experience. Pay starts at $16/hr with weekend bonuses. We offer staff meals, flexible shifts, and opportunities to grow into line cook roles. We use WorkScreen for hiring and reply to every applicant. Our vibe is casual, hardworking, and supportive.”
Step 2: Use a Prompt Like This:
“Can you help me write a warm, conversational job post for a Kitchen Helper at Rosa’s Coastal Grill? We’re looking for someone who’s dependable, hard-working, and wants to grow in the kitchen. I’ve included key details below. Make it sound friendly, specific, and human—not corporate or robotic. Base it on these notes: [paste your details here].”
Step 3: Use AI to Polish, Not Write from Scratch
Once the AI gives you something decent, don’t just copy-paste it.
Refine it.
Rearrange it.
Make it feel like it came from your kitchen, not a chatbot.
Think of AI like a sous-chef—it can prep the ingredients, but you still need to cook the final dish.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Copy-Paste Kitchen Helper Job Description (For Quick Use)
We get it—sometimes you just need something fast.
Maybe you’ve already read this guide and understand what a great job post looks like. But you also want a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and tailor to your company in just a few minutes.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Job Description Template
Job Title: Kitchen Helper Needed at [Company Name] (Full-Time Evening Shift)
📍 Location: [Location] | 💼 Type: Full-Time | 💰 Pay: [Salary Range] | ⏰ Shift: [Shift Time]
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
Before applying, watch this short video from our kitchen manager explaining what it’s like behind the scenes:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a locally loved restaurant serving [Type of Cuisine]. Our kitchen runs on respect, communication, and teamwork. Whether it’s prepping fresh ingredients or making sure the space stays clean and organized, every role here matters.
What You’ll Do
✔️ Prep ingredients (wash, cut, portion)
✔️ Clean dishes, stations, and equipment
✔️ Restock supplies and food items
✔️ Help cooks during busy hours
✔️ Follow safety and sanitation standards
What We’re Looking For
✅ Reliable and ready to work
✅ Positive attitude and team-first mindset
✅ Physically able to lift 30 lbs and stay on your feet
✅ Food handler’s permit (or willing to get one)
✅ Experience a plus—but we’ll train the right person
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t just another kitchen job. You’ll be part of a team that supports each other, respects hard work, and creates space for growth. Show up consistently, bring a great attitude, and you’ll be given opportunities to grow into new roles over time.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Free staff meals every shift
- Flexible schedule options
- Weekend shift bonuses
- Paid time off after 90 days
- Training and mentorship opportunities
- Employee discount for family & friends
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to keep our hiring process fair and fast. Just click the link below to complete a short evaluation—no resume needed.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: Structured Job Description Format
Job Title: Kitchen Helper
Company: [Company Name]
Location: [Location]
Job Type: [Full-Time / Part-Time]
Salary: [Salary Range]
Shift: [e.g., 2PM–10PM]
Start Date: [Insert Date or “ASAP”]
Job Brief:
We’re looking for a Kitchen Helper to support daily operations in our back-of-house team. This includes cleaning, organizing, food prep, and supporting cooks during service. Ideal candidates are dependable, detail-oriented, and team players.
Responsibilities:
- Wash dishes, utensils, and surfaces
- Prep ingredients under chef supervision
- Restock inventory and kitchen supplies
- Support chefs and cooks during meal service
- Maintain hygiene and safety standards
- Assist with closing and cleanup duties
Requirements:
- Previous kitchen experience is helpful but not required
- Good communication and work ethic
- Able to lift up to 30 lbs and stand for long periods
- Willingness to learn and grow
- Food handler’s card (or willing to obtain)
Perks & Benefits:
- Free shift meals
- Health benefits (after 90 days)
- Paid time off
- Mentorship and training
- Flexible shift options
- Opportunities to grow into cook or prep roles
How to Apply:
Apply through WorkScreen by completing a short evaluation. We respect your time and want to get to know you beyond just a resume.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step
You’ve written a great job post.
Now comes the hard part—sorting through applicants and figuring out who’s actually a good fit.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
Instead of wasting time reading generic resumes or chasing people who never reply, WorkScreen helps you:
✅ Quickly identify your top candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Easily send one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate low-effort or fake applications
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
✅ Respect your candidates’ time
Applicants go through a short, fair, and structured process—and they get clear updates. That makes you stand out as an employer who respects people from day one.
Create your job post on WorkScreen.io
👉 Ready to hire smarter, faster, and with less guesswork?
start evaluating applicants today.
Frequently Asked Questions - Kitchen Helper Job Description
In most restaurants, the terms “kitchen helper” and “kitchen assistant” are used interchangeably. However, in some kitchens:
- Kitchen Helper often refers to a more entry-level role focused on cleaning, dishwashing, and basic prep tasks.
- Kitchen Assistant may suggest slightly more responsibility—like preparing ingredients, assisting cooks during service, or managing a specific prep station.
That said, the exact title often depends on the kitchen. Always check the job description to see what the role actually involves.
While experience is helpful, the most valuable traits in a great kitchen helper are:
- Reliability — consistently showing up on time and ready to work
- Speed and stamina — working quickly on your feet, often for hours
- Attention to detail — keeping work areas clean and organized
- Teamwork — following direction, communicating clearly, and staying positive under pressure
- Adaptability — being willing to jump in wherever help is needed
These soft skills matter more than technical ability in many kitchens—especially in entry-level roles.
In the U.S., the average hourly wage for a kitchen helper ranges from $14 to $17 per hour, depending on:
- Location and cost of living
- Type of restaurant (fast food vs. fine dining)
- Experience level
- Shift timing (evening and weekend shifts often pay more)
In some states or high-demand cities, starting rates can reach $18–$20/hr, especially if benefits and bonuses are included.
Not exactly. A dishwasher typically focuses only on cleaning dishes and kitchenware. A kitchen helper, on the other hand, may wash dishes and help with food prep, restocking, basic cleaning, and other support tasks.
In smaller kitchens, the same person may do both—but in larger restaurants, they’re often separate roles.
In many locations, yes. A valid food handler’s card is often required by law—especially if the kitchen helper is involved in any kind of food preparation.
If someone doesn’t have one yet, employers will often ask them to get certified within a few weeks of starting. It’s usually a simple online course that takes 1–2 hours.
