Kitchen helpers assist chefs or head cooks with less-skilled tasks in kitchens.

Kitchen helpers work in:

• Restaurants
• Cafeterias
• Fast-food outlets
• Other public places where people eat and drink

Kitchen helpers may assist head chefs or cooks with the less-skilled tasks required to prepare food. They clean and prepare food for cooking or serving. For example, kitchen helpers may peel and slice vegetables and fruits for salads. They may cut or chop meat or seafood before it is cooked. They may weigh and measure ingredients or stir soups and sauces. In fast food outlets, kitchen helpers often cook and serve simple menu items.

Sanitary conditions are very important in food production. Kitchen helpers are responsible for cleaning work areas and equipment. Their primary task is to maintain a clean and organized work area. They also wash dishes, utensils, and pots and pans either by hand or using a dishwasher or steam cleaner.

In addition, kitchen helpers:

• Keep supplies stocked in work areas
• Unload trucks that make deliveries
• Stock serving stations, refrigerators, and salad bars
• Set up banquet tables