To work as a kitchen helper, you typically need to:

• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Kitchen helper jobs tend to be entry-level jobs that require little or no previous work experience. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school diploma or equivalent.

On-the-job training

Most kitchen helpers learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. Training includes:

• preparing food;
• cleaning surfaces, dishes, and equipment; and
• handling food safely.

After training, another worker supervises your work for a short period. Training may last a few hours or a few days.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be food service specialists. This military occupation includes kitchen helpers. Training lasts nine to 14 weeks, depending on your specialty. Further training occurs on the job.