Kitchen Steward Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties and Sample Template)

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If you’ve Googled “Kitchen Steward job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over — a bland list of duties like wash dishes, clean surfaces, assist the chef.

The problem?
Those posts don’t actually help you attract a great kitchen steward. They’re generic, lifeless, and forgettable — the kind of copy-paste job ads that only bring in low-effort applications.

If you want someone reliable, hard-working, and a true team player in your kitchen, you need a job post that does more than list chores. It should sell the role, highlight your culture, and make the right people think: “Yes — this is where I want to work.”

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to do that. You’ll see real examples, learn why certain job posts work, and get a copy-paste template you can adapt for your restaurant, hotel, or catering business.

📌 Tip: If you want the complete framework we use to create high-converting job posts for any role, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/

If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.

What A Kitchen Steward Actually Does - Their Roles

A Kitchen Steward is the behind-the-scenes backbone of any busy kitchen.

They keep the workspace clean, organized, and running smoothly so chefs and cooks can focus on preparing food. This means more than just washing dishes — it’s about ensuring hygiene standards are met, equipment is ready for use, and the kitchen flows efficiently during service.

In hotels, restaurants, catering companies, and cruise ships, the kitchen steward is often the unsung hero. They handle dishwashing, sanitizing surfaces, organizing storage, disposing of waste properly, and sometimes even assisting with basic food prep.

Beyond physical tasks, a great kitchen steward brings reliability, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic to the table. In a fast-paced kitchen, those traits can make the difference between chaos and smooth service.

Two Great Kitchen Steward Job Description Templates

✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Kitchen Steward 

📌 Job Title: Kitchen Steward — Keep Riverstone’s Brasserie Running at Its Best
💼 Location: [City, State]
🕒 Type: Full-Time
💰 Salary Range: [$X – $Y per hour] (Based on experience)

🎥 A quick note from our Executive Chef: (Insert Loom/YouTube link here)

Who We Are
Riverstone Hotel & Brasserie is a 110-room boutique hotel in the heart of [City]. Our open-kitchen brasserie serves breakfast through late dinner, averaging 200–350 covers on weekends and frequent banquets up to 150 guests. We’re proud of a spotless back-of-house, a calm, respectful brigade, and a track record of promoting stewards into prep and line cook roles. Sustainability matters to us: we separate waste streams, compost organics, and partner with local suppliers.

What You’ll Do

  • Keep dishware, cookware, and small wares spotless and sanitized (machine and hand wash).

  • Maintain clean floors, drains, and work surfaces to HACCP standards.

  • Break down, clean, and reassemble dish machines and grease traps on schedule.

  • Stock stations with sanitized pans, utensils, and serviceware before rush periods.

  • Manage waste, recycling, and compost per hotel policy.

  • Support chefs during service to keep the pass moving smoothly.

What We’re Looking For

  • 1+ year in a professional kitchen as a Kitchen Steward/Dishwasher or similar.

  • Working knowledge of hygiene, chemical safety, and temperature controls.

  • Reliable, organized, and steady under pressure.

  • Team-first attitude and clear communication.

Perks & Benefits

  • Staff meals every shift; uniform provided and laundered.

  • Health, dental, and vision after 90 days.

  • Paid time off and paid holidays.

  • Overtime paid according to local regulations.

  • Commuter/transport stipend (role dependent).

  • Employee discounts at the hotel, brasserie, and partner venues.

Why This Role Is a Great Fit

  • You’ll be the backbone of service — your work keeps the line moving and guests happy.

  • Clear growth path: steward → prep cook → line cook (with training milestones).

  • Supportive, respectful kitchen culture that values consistency over ego.

  • Stable schedule blocks so you can plan life outside of work.

Our Hiring Process
We review every application and reply within two weeks. Shortlisted candidates complete a quick skills evaluation via WorkScreen, followed by an on-site interview and a paid trial shift.

How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen.io: [Insert WorkScreen link] — we evaluate skills fairly, not just resumes.

✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing to Train Kitchen Steward

📌 Job Title: Kitchen Steward — Start in Stewarding, Grow on the Line at Riverstone
💼 Location: [City, State]
🕒 Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
💰 Salary Range: [$X – $Y per hour]

🎥 A quick hello from our General Manager: (Insert Loom/YouTube link here)

Who We Are
At Riverstone Hotel & Brasserie, our kitchen is a learning environment as much as it is a production space. We run a busy, well-organized operation that treats people with respect and teaches good habits from day one. No experience? That’s okay. If you bring reliability, a positive attitude, and pride in a clean workspace, we’ll train you on equipment, hygiene, and efficient service flow.

What You’ll Do

  • Wash, sanitize, and rack dishware and cookware; restock the line quickly and safely.

  • Keep work areas, floors, and bins clean and organized.

  • Learn to operate commercial dish machines and handle chemicals safely.

  • Follow waste, recycling, and compost procedures.

  • Assist with basic prep (peeling, labeling, storing) as you advance.

What We’re Looking For

  • No prior kitchen experience required.

  • You can stand, lift, and move safely for extended periods.

  • Reliable, on time, and eager to learn.

  • Team player who takes direction and gives help freely.

Perks & Benefits

  • Paid training with clear skill badges and wage bumps as you progress.

  • Staff meals; uniform provided and laundered.

  • Flexible scheduling options.

  • Health, dental, and vision for eligible employees.

  • PTO accrual and employee discounts across Riverstone.

Why This Role Is a Great Fit

  • Start with the fundamentals and build a hospitality career step by step.

  • Learn real systems and standards that travel with you anywhere you cook.

  • Friendly team that celebrates consistency, effort, and growth — not just speed.

  • Chance to move into prep and line roles within months if you’re ready.

Our Hiring Process
Apply via WorkScreen to complete a short skills and attitude assessment (no resume needed). We respond within one week. Finalists are invited for an in-person interview and a short paid trial shift.

How to Apply
Apply on WorkScreen.io: [Insert WorkScreen link] — fair, fast, and skills-based.

Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.

Breakdown of Why These Kitchen Steward Job Posts Work

1. Clear, Specific Job Titles

  • Instead of “Kitchen Steward” alone, the titles say:

    • “Kitchen Steward — Keep Riverstone’s Brasserie Running at Its Best”

    • “Kitchen Steward — Start in Stewarding, Grow on the Line at Riverstone”

  • This instantly signals who it’s for, what they’ll do, and sometimes even the growth path.

  • A specific, engaging title filters out unqualified applicants and pulls in people who see themselves in the role.

2. Personal Video Element

  • Each post includes a short Loom/YouTube video from the chef or manager.

  • This humanizes the ad, shows the real workplace, and builds trust.

  • It’s a small touch that sets your post apart from 99% of other job ads in the same role.

3. Rich, Culture-Driven “Who We Are” Section

  • The company intro isn’t generic—it’s about Riverstone’s story, values, and what the kitchen is actually like.

  • Mentioning sustainability, promotion pathways, and respect in the kitchen helps candidates self-select.

  • This is where you connect with mission-driven, loyal employees instead of short-term fillers.

4. Detailed Responsibilities that Show Impact

  • Duties go beyond “wash dishes” and “clean work areas.”

  • The wording links each task to why it matters—like keeping the pass moving or supporting chefs during service.

  • This makes even entry-level tasks feel purposeful, which boosts pride and ownership.

5. Two Experience Levels Covered

  • By showing both an experienced version and a willing-to-train version, you widen your talent pool.

  • The entry-level version speaks directly to candidates who might not apply otherwise, helping you find eager, coachable hires.

6. Perks & Benefits Are Transparent and Separate

  • Instead of hiding benefits, they’re in their own section for quick scanning.

  • Listing PTO, health coverage, staff meals, and uniform laundering helps signal professionalism and stability.

7. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section

  • This section is your sales pitch—showing culture, growth opportunities, and recognition.

  • It makes the role aspirational, not just functional.

  • Perfect for attracting candidates who care about workplace environment as much as pay.

8. Respectful Hiring Process

  • The posts make it clear that every application is reviewed and candidates will get a timely response.

  • Mentioning the WorkScreen skills evaluation builds fairness and objectivity into the process.

9. Human, Conversational Tone

  • Both templates speak directly to the candidate (“You’ll be…”, “You can…”).

  • This makes them more inviting and relatable than formal HR job posts.

Bad Kitchen Steward Job Post Example — And Why It Fails

📌 Job Title: Kitchen Steward
💼 Location: [City, State]
🕒 Type: Full-Time

Job Summary
We are hiring a kitchen steward to assist with cleaning duties in the kitchen. The ideal candidate will maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards and assist chefs as needed.

Key Responsibilities

  • Wash dishes.

  • Clean kitchen equipment.

  • Maintain hygiene.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • Previous experience preferred.

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

How to Apply
Send your CV to kitchenjobs@email.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

❌ Why This Kitchen Steward Job Post Falls Short

1. Generic Job Title

  • Just says “Kitchen Steward” with no context, company name, or reason why the role matters.

  • Misses a chance to make the role appealing or differentiated from other listings.

2. Cold, Minimal Introduction

  • The “Job Summary” is two vague sentences that could apply to any kitchen anywhere.

  • No mission, culture, or description of what it’s like to work there.

3. Zero Personality

  • Reads like a legal form, not a job invitation.

  • Doesn’t make the candidate feel welcome or valued.

4. Lack of Transparency

  • No salary range, perks, or benefits listed.

  • Serious candidates will skip over this because it signals an outdated hiring process.

5. Bland Responsibilities

  • Short, vague bullet points like “wash dishes” and “maintain hygiene” show no thought about the role’s importance or impact.

6. No Candidate Experience Focus

  • “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” sends a dismissive tone.

  • No timeline or clarity on what the process will look like.

7. Weak Call-to-Action

  • “Send your CV” is cold and transactional.

  • No encouragement, no link to apply easily, no next steps explained.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Kitchen Steward Job Post Stand Out

If you want your Kitchen Steward job description to pull in motivated, long-term hires instead of short-term fillers, consider adding these extras:

1. Add an “Important Notice” to Build Trust

Reassure applicants you’re a legitimate employer who respects their privacy. Example:

IMPORTANT NOTICE: We take the security and privacy of all applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any stage of our hiring process.

This small line can make cautious job seekers feel safe enough to apply.

2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time

Even in fast-paced kitchen roles, candidates value rest. Adding leave perks makes your post more attractive. Example:

Enjoy up to 20 paid days off per year, including flexible scheduling options to help you balance work and life.

3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities

Kitchen Stewards often become prep cooks, line cooks, or even sous chefs if they’re developed properly. Show them you invest in their future:

We invest in your growth. Our Steward-to-Cook training pathway has clear skill milestones, mentorship from our chefs, and pay increases as you advance.

4. Include a Personal Video from the Kitchen

A quick 30–60 second Loom or YouTube video of the chef or kitchen manager saying:

  • What it’s like to work there

  • Why the team values stewards

  • A quick “thank you” for applying

It builds trust and makes the listing stand out in a sea of text-only ads.

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. Showcase Sustainability or Special Values

If your kitchen uses local suppliers, composting, or green cleaning practices, mention it. Purpose-driven candidates are more likely to commit to you long-term.

A Word of Caution About Using AI for Kitchen Steward Job Posts

Lately, it feels like every hiring manager is turning to AI to instantly generate job descriptions — even some ATS platforms now offer “one-click” job post creation.

But here’s the problem:
If you just type “Write me a job description for a kitchen steward” into an AI tool, you’ll get the same lifeless bullet points every other company is posting. And that means you’ll attract the same low-effort, high-turnover applicants.

❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone

  • Generic & Forgettable: AI without your input spits out vague lists like “wash dishes” and “maintain cleanliness,” which don’t sell your culture or values.

  • Wrong Audience: Bland posts appeal to people applying to anything, not the team players who will thrive in your kitchen.

  • Brand Damage: Your job post is often a candidate’s first impression of your restaurant or hotel. A generic post says, “We don’t care enough to be personal.”

✅ The Right Way to Use AI

Think of AI as your kitchen prep assistant — it can help, but only if you give it the right ingredients.

Before prompting AI, give it:

  • What your company does (e.g., “We’re Riverstone Hotel & Brasserie, a 110-room boutique hotel serving 200–350 covers on weekends.”)

  • The role’s true impact (e.g., “Our stewards keep the pass moving during service and ensure HACCP standards are met.”)

  • Your culture & values (e.g., “We promote from within, run a respectful kitchen, and believe in sustainable practices.”)

  • Perks & growth opportunities (e.g., “Staff meals, paid training, and a steward-to-cook pathway with pay raises.”)

  • Your hiring process (e.g., “Apply via WorkScreen, short skills test, interview, paid trial shift.”)

Then prompt AI like this:

“Help me write a Kitchen Steward job post for Riverstone Hotel & Brasserie in [City, State]. We serve 200–350 covers on weekends and have a strong focus on sustainability. We’re hiring someone to keep our kitchen spotless, stocked, and HACCP-compliant. We promote from within and offer staff meals, paid training, and career growth. Our culture is respectful, organized, and team-first. Our hiring process includes a skills evaluation via WorkScreen, a short interview, and a paid trial shift. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]. Make the tone human, welcoming, and engaging — not corporate. Include salary, perks, and a personal video element.”

This way, AI can polish and format your post while still sounding like your business — not a robot.

Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.

Need a Quick Copy-Paste Kitchen Steward Job Description?

✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Style

Job Title: Kitchen Steward – Keep the Kitchen Running Smoothly at [Company Name]💼 Location: On-site (HQ: [City, State])🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year

🎥 A quick note from our Hiring Manager: (Insert Loom/YouTube link here)

Who We Are
At [Company Name], a great dining experience starts long before a plate reaches the table. Our kitchen team is the heartbeat of the operation, and we’re looking for a reliable, detail-oriented Kitchen Steward to keep everything spotless, organized, and moving smoothly during service.

What You’ll Do

  • Wash and sanitize dishware, cookware, and utensils (machine + hand wash).

  • Keep floors, drains, and surfaces clean to hygiene standards.

  • Organize and restock stations before rush periods.

  • Manage waste, recycling, and compost per policy.

  • Support chefs during service to keep the pass moving.

What We’re Looking For

  • 1+ year in a professional kitchen (preferred, not required).

  • Understanding of hygiene/food-safety basics.

  • Reliability, stamina, and a team-first attitude.

Perks & Benefits

  • Staff meals every shift; uniform provided.

  • Health, dental, and vision after [X] days (for eligible employees).

  • Paid time off and observed holidays.

  • Employee discounts and [commuter/transport stipend if applicable].

Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’re the backbone of service—your work keeps the line moving and guests happy. We promote from within, offer a clear steward-to-cook growth path, and run a respectful, organized, team-first kitchen.

How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen.io: [Insert WorkScreen link]. Complete a short skills evaluation; we respond within [timeline].

✅ Option 2: Structured Format (“Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements”)

Job Title: Kitchen Steward – Support a Fast, Organized Back-of-House at [Company Name]💼 Location: On-site (HQ: [City, State])🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year

Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking a Kitchen Steward to maintain cleanliness, organization, and efficiency across our back-of-house. This role supports chefs, ensures food-safety compliance, and keeps service running smoothly.

Responsibilities

  • Operate commercial dish machines; hand-wash as needed.

  • Maintain cleanliness of equipment, floors, and surfaces.

  • Stock and organize stations with clean utensils and cookware.

  • Follow all health, safety, and sanitation standards.

  • Assist with basic prep and waste management.

Requirements

  • Previous kitchen experience preferred but not required.

  • Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to [X] lbs.

  • Strong work ethic and teamwork skills.

  • Willingness to work flexible shifts, including weekends.

Perks & Benefits

  • Competitive hourly equivalent; staff meals; uniform provided.

  • Health, dental, and vision (for eligible employees).

  • Paid time off and employee discounts.

How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen.io: [Insert WorkScreen link]. Quick skills assessment + streamlined process.

Next Step: Let WorkScreen.io Handle the Hard Part

You’ve now got a strong Kitchen Steward job post — one that actually connects with the right candidates. The next step? Making sure your hiring process is just as effective as your job ad.

That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.

Here’s How WorkScreen Helps You Hire Smarter:

  1. 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, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.

  1. Easily Administer 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.

  1. Eliminate Low-Effort Applicants

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.

  1. Save Time Without Sacrificing Quality
  • From first application to final shortlist, WorkScreen streamlines your process so you can make great hires faster.

Post your Kitchen Steward job on WorkScreen, share the unique link anywhere, and let the platform handle evaluations, scoring, and ranking — so you can get back to running your kitchen.

FAQ

While both roles support the smooth running of a kitchen, their focus is different.

  • Kitchen Steward: Primarily responsible for cleaning, dishwashing, maintaining hygiene standards, and ensuring kitchen equipment is ready for use.

  • Kitchen Helper: Often assists with basic food preparation, ingredient handling, and other tasks directly related to cooking, along with some cleaning duties.
    In short, a steward focuses on cleanliness and equipment readiness, while a helper is more involved in food prep.

A great kitchen steward should have:

  • Attention to detail to ensure hygiene and safety standards are met.

  • Physical stamina to handle long shifts and heavy lifting.

  • Time management to keep pace with a busy service.

  • Teamwork and communication to coordinate with chefs and other staff.

  • Reliability so the kitchen can depend on them during peak hours.

The average annual salary for a kitchen steward varies by region, type of establishment, and experience level. In many places, it ranges from [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year, with additional benefits like staff meals, uniforms, and sometimes tips. Upscale hotels and resorts often offer higher pay and more comprehensive benefits.

Not always. Many employers are willing to train reliable candidates with the right attitude. While experience helps in understanding workflow and hygiene standards, entry-level stewards can learn on the job.



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Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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