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If you’ve Googled “kitchen porter job description,” you’ve probably found the same thing over and over again: short bullet points, bland responsibilities, and zero personality.
They list duties like “wash dishes” and “clean kitchen surfaces”—and while that’s technically true, it doesn’t tell the real story.
Here’s the problem:
Generic job posts don’t inspire anyone to apply—at least not the kind of people who will stick around, work hard, and actually enjoy the role. The best kitchen porters aren’t just bodies in the back—they’re the engine that keeps the kitchen moving, the ones who make sure chefs can focus on cooking and customers get their meals on time.
If you want to attract those people, you need more than a bullet list. You need a job description that shows why the role matters, what it’s like to work in your kitchen, and why your team is worth joining.
💡 If you haven’t already, read 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 explains why most generic job posts fail to convert quality applicants and gives you the proven framework we’ll be using in this article.*
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to do that. You’ll see:
- Two great kitchen porter job description templates you can use right away (experienced & entry-level)
- Why these posts work when others don’t
- A real example of a bad post and how to fix it
- Extra tips to make your ad stand out
- How to use AI smartly without losing personality
And once your post is pulling in the right people, we’ll show you how WorkScreen.io can help you quickly spot the best candidates without spending hours in the CV pile.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
What A Kitchen Porter Actually Does - Their Roles Explained
A kitchen porter is the unsung hero of a busy kitchen.
They keep everything moving—washing dishes, cleaning work surfaces, organizing storage areas, and making sure chefs always have the tools they need, when they need them.
It’s not just about scrubbing pans. A good kitchen porter helps prevent delays, reduces stress for the cooking team, and makes sure food service runs like clockwork. They’re the steady hands in the background who notice when supplies are low, when equipment needs cleaning, and when the bin is about to overflow—long before anyone else does.
In short: a kitchen porter is the foundation of kitchen efficiency.
If they do their job well, nobody notices—but if they don’t, the whole operation feels it. That’s why reliability, stamina, teamwork, and attention to detail matter just as much as the ability to handle a commercial dishwasher.
Two Great Kitchen Porter 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.
✅ Option 1: Experienced Kitchen Porter
📌 Job Title: Kitchen Porter for The Harbour House Seafood Grill – Evening Shifts (Brighton, UK)
💼 Type: Full-Time | Pay: £11.50–£13.00/hour (based on experience)
🕒 Schedule: Wed–Sun | 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
🎥 Meet the Team
Before you apply, hear directly from our head chef and kitchen team about what it’s like to work here: [Insert Loom or YouTube link]
Who We Are
The Harbour House Seafood Grill is a bustling seaside restaurant serving fresh, locally caught seafood in the heart of Brighton. Our team is known for speed, precision, and a friendly atmosphere both in the kitchen and on the floor.
Our Kitchen Culture
We run a fast-paced kitchen that thrives on teamwork, respect, and attention to detail. No task is “just” a task—everything we do contributes to delivering top-quality meals and great experiences for our guests.
What We’re Looking For
- 1+ year experience as a kitchen porter or in a similar back-of-house role
- Comfortable working in a high-volume kitchen environment
- Can operate and maintain commercial dishwashing equipment
- Strong work ethic and a “jump in and help” mindset
What You’ll Be Doing
- Wash and sanitize dishes, utensils, and cooking equipment
- Keep prep and service areas clean and organized
- Assist chefs with basic prep tasks when needed
- Manage waste disposal and recycling processes
- Keep storage areas tidy and well-stocked
Why This Role Is Worth Your Time
- Competitive pay with opportunities for extra shifts
- Staff meals provided on every shift
- 28 days paid holiday (including bank holidays)
- Opportunities to learn food prep and cross-train with chefs
- Be part of a supportive team that values your role and hard work
Our Hiring Process
We reply to every application within 7 days. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a short on-site trial shift (paid) to meet the team and see the pace of the kitchen.
📥 How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen at [Insert Link] — our quick online process helps us evaluate your skills fairly, so the right people get noticed.
✅ Option 2: Entry-Level / Willing to Train Kitchen Porter
📌 Job Title: No Experience Needed – Kitchen Porter for Bella Vista Bistro (Manchester, UK)
💼 Type: Full-Time or Part-Time | Pay: £10.90–£12.00/hour
**🕒 Flexible shifts: Morning, Afternoon, or Evening
🎥 Meet the Team
Watch a quick message from our kitchen manager and current porters about what makes working here fun, supportive, and worth it: [Insert Loom or YouTube link]
Join Our Team
At Bella Vista Bistro, we believe great kitchens are built on great teamwork—and that starts with our kitchen porters. If you’re reliable, quick on your feet, and willing to learn, we’ll teach you the rest.
Our Culture
We keep things friendly, supportive, and respectful. We know that everyone in the kitchen plays a part in delivering excellent meals. You’ll be treated as a valued team member from day one.
What We’re Looking For
- No previous experience required—just a strong work ethic and positive attitude
- Willingness to learn kitchen processes and safety standards
- Ability to work well in a team under pressure
What You’ll Be Doing
- Wash dishes, cookware, and kitchen tools
- Wipe down surfaces and maintain hygiene standards
- Assist with unpacking deliveries and organizing storage
- Help chefs with simple food prep as needed
Why Join Us
- Full training provided
- Free staff meals
- Flexible shifts to fit your schedule
- Paid holiday allowance
- Opportunities to grow into prep cook or commis chef roles
Our Hiring Process
We review all applications within 5 days. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a paid trial shift so you can experience the environment and meet the team.
📥 How to Apply
Apply easily via WorkScreen at [Insert Link] — no long CVs, just a simple skills-based evaluation to help us get to know you quickly.
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
Breakdown of Why These Posts Work
Both kitchen porter job descriptions above follow the “Best New Way” approach — they’re human, specific, and transparent. Here’s why they attract better applicants than the generic posts you see online:
1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Contextual ✅
Instead of a vague “Kitchen Porter Needed,” both titles specify:
- The exact role (Kitchen Porter)
- The location (Brighton, UK / Manchester, UK)
- The shift type or hiring flexibility (Evening Shifts / No Experience Needed)
This instantly tells the right candidates: “This is for you.”
It also filters out people who aren’t available for those shifts or locations before they apply.
2. Team Video Builds Trust and Connection 🎥
Adding a Loom or YouTube video right before the “About the Company” section gives the ad a personal touch.
Candidates get to see the real people they’ll be working with — which makes your workplace feel approachable and relatable.
It’s a low-cost, high-impact way to stand out from other ads.
3. The Introductions Show Mission and Personality 💬
Instead of starting with a list of duties, the intro tells the candidate:
- Who the company is
- What the kitchen is known for
- Why the role matters to the team
This approach appeals to motivated people who want to feel their work is meaningful — even in a support role like kitchen porter.
4. Salary and Perks Are Transparent 💷
Including pay rates, holidays, and benefits upfront builds trust and prevents wasted applications from people who aren’t a pay match.
It also signals professionalism and respect for the candidate’s time.
5. Culture Is Described, Not Just Claimed 🤝
Rather than saying “We’re a friendly team”, these posts describe how the team works, what the pace is like, and how everyone is treated.
This gives applicants a mental picture of what it will be like to work there — making it easier for them to self-assess their fit.
6. Responsibilities Show Impact, Not Just Chores 🍽️
Yes, the tasks are listed (washing dishes, cleaning, basic prep), but they’re framed as part of keeping the kitchen running smoothly.
This makes the work feel purposeful instead of purely manual.
7. The Hiring Process Is Respectful and Clear 📋
Both posts explain exactly:
- How soon applicants will hear back
- What the next step will be (trial shift)
- That the trial shift is paid
This small detail sets you apart from employers who leave candidates in the dark.
8. WorkScreen.io Application Process Streamlines and Personalizes 🖥️
By including a WorkScreen link, candidates know they’ll be assessed fairly based on skills — not ignored because of a thin CV.
It also filters out low-effort applicants, so only the most committed people reach the interview stage.
Example of a Bad Kitchen Porter Job Description (And Why It Fails)
❌ Bad Job Post Example
📌 Job Title: Kitchen Porter
💼 Type: Full-Time
📍 Location: London, UK
Job Summary
We are looking for a kitchen porter to join our team. Duties include cleaning dishes, kitchen equipment, and work surfaces.
Responsibilities
- Wash dishes and utensils
- Clean kitchen areas and equipment
- Empty bins and dispose of rubbish
Requirements
- Previous experience preferred
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Good time management skills
How to Apply
Please send your CV to hr@restaurant.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
- The Job Title Is Too Generic
“Kitchen Porter” alone tells the candidate nothing about the location, shift patterns, or work environment. - The Introduction Is Bland and Uninspired
A single sentence with no mention of company culture, pace of the kitchen, or why the role exists. - No Salary or Benefits Mentioned
This makes the post feel outdated and can turn off high-quality candidates who expect transparency. - Culture and Team Values Are Missing
There’s no insight into how the team works, how they treat each other, or why someone would want to work there. - Responsibilities Are Too Broad and Unremarkable
The list reads like a cleaning checklist — no framing of how the role contributes to the bigger picture. - Cold, Impersonal Hiring Process
Ending with “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels dismissive and discouraging. - No Personality in the Call to Action
The “send CV” instruction is transactional, not motivating. There’s no sense of excitement or human connection.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Kitchen Porter Job Post Stand Out
Once you’ve nailed the structure and tone, these extra touches can make the difference between “just another ad” and a post that gets shared, bookmarked, and remembered.
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice for Applicants 🔒
Build trust by showing you take applicant safety seriously.
Example:
We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.
This instantly sets you apart from shady job listings and puts applicants at ease.
2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time 🌴
Kitchen work is demanding — showing that you respect rest time can be a huge draw.
Example:
Enjoy up to 24 flex days off per year so you can recharge and come back stronger.
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities 📈
Many kitchen porters see the role as a starting point. Make it clear that there’s a path forward.
Example:
We invest in your growth. You’ll get hands-on training with senior chefs and opportunities to step into food prep or commis chef roles.
4. Add a Team Video 🎥
We’ve already included this in our “good” examples, but it’s worth repeating here:
A 30–60 second Loom or YouTube clip from your chef or manager talking about the kitchen’s culture can double your engagement.
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
5. Include a Small “Why Apply Here?” Section 💬
Even if you’ve woven benefits into the main ad, a quick recap at the end works as a second pitch.
Example:
Why Apply Here?
- Competitive pay + free staff meals
- Paid holiday from day one
- Supportive, team-first culture
- Real opportunities to grow
AI Caution Section – How to Use AI Without Losing Your Voice
These days, it feels like everyone is letting AI write their job posts — some ATS platforms even have a “generate job description” button.
The problem? Most one-click AI outputs are generic, soulless, and read like every other listing online.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
- Generic Content: One-click outputs sound the same as everyone else’s.
- Wrong Applicants: They attract anyone and everyone — especially low-effort applicants.
- Brand Damage: A job post is often the first impression someone has of your company. Bland, cookie-cutter text says “we don’t care” before they even apply.
Your job post is more than a checklist — it’s a reflection of your kitchen’s culture, pace, and people. If you hand that responsibility entirely to AI, you miss your chance to stand out.
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI
AI works best when you give it rich, specific details to work with.
Here’s how to get a great kitchen porter job post out of AI without losing your human touch:
- Gather Your Raw Ingredients:
- What your restaurant does
- What the role involves day-to-day
- The pace and culture of your kitchen
- The type of person you want to hire
- Benefits, perks, and salary range
- Your hiring process
- What your restaurant does
- Prompt AI With Context:
Example prompt:
Help me write a job post for our restaurant, [Your Restaurant Name]. We’re hiring a Kitchen Porter to keep our kitchen clean, organized, and running efficiently. Our culture is friendly but fast-paced — we work as a team and value reliability. We want to attract candidates who are hardworking, punctual, and able to work under pressure. We offer £11.50–£13.00/hour, free staff meals, paid holidays, and training to progress into prep or commis chef roles. Our hiring process includes a paid trial shift. Here are my notes to get you started: [Paste bullet points from your real kitchen environment].
- Use AI as Your Editor, Not Your Author:
Let AI help you tighten sentences, improve flow, and structure your ad — but keep the voice, tone, and personality yours.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Template?
We get it — sometimes you just need something fast.
Maybe you’ve read this guide and understand what a strong job post looks like, but you also want a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and tailor to your kitchen 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 Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: Kitchen Porter for [Restaurant Name] – [Shift/Location]
💼 Type: [Full-Time / Part-Time] | Pay: [Insert Pay Range]
🕒 Schedule: [Insert Shift Pattern]
🎥 Meet the Team
Watch a short video from our head chef and kitchen team about what it’s like to work here: [Insert Loom or YouTube link]
About Us
[Restaurant Name] is [Brief description of your restaurant — cuisine type, location, vibe, what you’re known for]. Our kitchen runs on teamwork, respect, and attention to detail. Every role matters, and every team member plays a part in delivering excellent meals to our guests.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Wash and sanitize dishes, utensils, and cooking equipment
- Keep prep and service areas clean and organized
- Help unpack deliveries and organize storage areas
- Assist chefs with basic food prep if needed
What We’re Looking For
- [Experience requirement or “No experience needed — we’ll train you”]
- Reliable, hardworking, and able to keep up in a fast-paced kitchen
- Good communication and teamwork skills
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive pay + free staff meals
- Paid holiday allowance
- Training to progress into food prep or commis chef roles
- Supportive, team-first environment
Our Hiring Process
We reply to every application within [X] days. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a paid trial shift to see the kitchen and meet the team.
📥 How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen at [Insert Link] — our quick skills-based process helps us get to know you fairly and efficiently.
✅ Option 2: Structured Format (Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements)
📌 Job Title: Kitchen Porter
📍 Location: [City, UK]
💼 Type: [Full-Time / Part-Time] | Pay: [Insert Pay Range]
Job Brief
We’re looking for a reliable Kitchen Porter to help keep our kitchen running smoothly. You’ll handle dishwashing, cleaning, and basic prep tasks, ensuring our chefs can focus on creating great food for our guests.
Responsibilities
- Wash and sanitize dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment
- Maintain clean work surfaces and storage areas
- Assist with receiving and storing deliveries
- Support the kitchen team with prep as needed
Requirements
- [Insert “Experience required” or “No experience necessary — training provided”]
- Ability to work quickly and stay organized in a busy kitchen
- Positive attitude and team player mindset
Benefits
- Competitive hourly rate
- Free staff meals during shifts
- Paid holiday allowance
- Opportunities to train into higher kitchen roles
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen at [Insert Link]. Our short online evaluation helps us get to know your skills quickly and fairly.
Let WorkScreen.io Handle The Rest From Here
Writing a great kitchen porter job post is only the first step.
The real challenge? Sorting through applications to find the people who can actually handle the pace, stay reliable under pressure, and work well with your team.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With WorkScreen, you can:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates.
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard — making it easy to spot top talent at a glance without digging through every CV. - Easily administer one-click skill tests.
Use Workscreen to administer one click skill tests to assess kitchen porters on real-world abilities like speed, organization, and hygiene awareness — not just what’s written on a résumé. - Eliminate low-effort applicants.
Workscreen automatically filters out low-effort applicants who use AI tools to mass-apply, copy-paste generic answers, or hit “one-click apply” without reading your post.
That means your shortlist is made up of committed, high-quality candidates.
Bottom line: You’ve done the hard work of crafting a job post that attracts the right people.
Now let WorkScreen make the hiring process faster, fairer, and smarter — so you can spend more time running your kitchen and less time chasing applicants.
👉 Sign up for WorkScreen.io and start hiring your next great kitchen porter today.
Kitchen Porter Job Description - Frequently Asked Questions
In the UK, kitchen porters typically earn between £10.50 and £12.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the type of establishment.
High-end restaurants, hotels, and busy city locations often pay at the higher end of this range, while smaller venues or rural areas may be closer to the lower end.
Some employers also offer perks such as free meals, paid holidays, and opportunities for overtime.
The most effective kitchen porters often have:
- Reliability — showing up on time, ready to work every shift
- Speed and efficiency — keeping up with the fast pace of service
- Attention to detail — ensuring all equipment is spotless and hygienic
- Teamwork — supporting chefs and other staff without friction
- Physical stamina — handling long hours on your feet in hot, noisy environments
- Adaptability — switching between cleaning, prepping, and organizing as needed
Most kitchen porter roles don’t require formal qualifications, but some desirable ones include:
- Basic Food Hygiene Certificate — shows understanding of food safety practices
- Manual Handling Training — useful for lifting heavy pots, boxes, and equipment safely
- First Aid Certification — a bonus in any workplace
That said, a strong work ethic and willingness to learn often outweigh formal credentials.
Yes. Kitchen porters are often on their feet for most of their shift, moving between sinks, storage areas, and prep stations.
The work can involve heavy lifting, repetitive movements, and working in hot environments — which is why stamina and resilience are important traits.
Absolutely. Many chefs, sous chefs, and even head chefs started as kitchen porters.
With consistent effort, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn, a porter can move into prep cook, commis chef, or other back-of-house roles.
Full-time kitchen porters usually work 35–45 hours per week, often on shifts that include evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Part-time roles are common, especially in restaurants and cafés with flexible staffing needs.
