Kitchen Assistant

Job Purpose

To support the kitchen team in preparing, cooking, and serving food while maintaining high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and food safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with basic food preparation (washing, peeling, chopping ingredients)
• Help with simple cooking tasks under supervision
• Keep kitchen areas, equipment, and surfaces clean and sanitised
• Wash dishes, utensils, and cooking equipment
• Receive and store deliveries correctly, ensuring stock rotation (FIFO)
• Assist chefs and cooks during meal service
• Dispose of waste safely and in line with hygiene procedures
• Follow food safety, HACCP, and infection control procedures at all times

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in a kitchen or catering environment (desirable but not always required)
• Basic understanding of food hygiene and safety practices
• Ability to follow instructions accurately
• Good teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 1 or 2)
• Experience in a care home, school, hospital, or restaurant kitchen
• Understanding of allergen awareness and dietary requirements

Personal Qualities

• Reliable and punctual
• Hard-working and willing to learn
• Positive attitude and team player
• Able to work under pressure
• Good attention to cleanliness and detail

Qualifications

• No formal qualifications required (training usually provided on the job)
• Food Hygiene Certificate is an advantage