Details
Job Title: Kitchen helper
Employer: A & J Mattu Inc.
Location: Surrey, British Columbia
Shift: Day, Night, Weekend
Salary: $18.00 hourly / 35 hours per week
Terms of employment: Permanent employment Full-time
Start date: Starts as soon as possible
Overview
Languages: English
Education: Secondary (high) school graduation certificate
Experience: Will train
Tasks
- Bring clean dishes, flatware, and other items to serving areas and set tables
- Clean and sanitize items such as dishwasher mats, carts, and waste disposal units
- Clear and clean tables, trays, and chairs
- Keep records of the quantities of food used
- Portion and wrap foods
- Take customers’ orders
- Clean and sanitized kitchen, including work surfaces, cupboards, storage areas, appliances, and equipment
- Sweep, mop, wash, and polish floors
Transportation/travel information
- Public transportation is available.
Work conditions and physical capabilities
- Fast-paced environment
Personal suitability
- Team player
Who can apply for this job?
The employer accepts applications from:
- Canadian citizens and permanent or temporary residents of Canada.
- Other candidates with or without a valid Canadian work permit.
How to Apply
- Online through the company email: [email protected]
A & J Mattu Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace.
All qualified candidates will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or any other factor prohibited by law or contract.
What is a Kitchen Helper?
A kitchen helper cleans and sanitizes kitchen equipment, assists in essential food preparation, and receives and stores products in kitchens, restaurants, clubs, fast food outlets, and catering companies.
They have knowledge of general kitchen operations and general food storage guidelines. This position gives kitchen helpers the opportunity to learn about kitchen and restaurant operations and the opportunity to work with and learn from chefs.
What Does a Kitchen Helper Do?
A kitchen helper plays a vital role in any culinary setting by assisting the kitchen staff with preparation and clean-up duties.
They are the backbone of the kitchen, performing tasks that keep the kitchen running smoothly, which provides a positive dining experience for customers.
Washing and Preparing Ingredients: A kitchen helper’s day often starts with sorting, cleaning, and peeling fruits and vegetables. They may also cut, dice, or slice ingredients according to the specifications of the head chef.
Assisting in Meal Preparation: Part of a kitchen helper’s responsibility is to aid cooks or chefs in meal preparation. This may involve stirring soups, seasoning dishes, or doing other simple cooking tasks under supervision.
Cleaning the Kitchen: After meal services, it’s the kitchen helper’s job to ensure the kitchen is clean and ready for the next service. It means washing dishes, utensils, pots, and pans, wiping down surfaces, and ensuring the cleanliness of appliances.
Managing Supplies: Kitchen helpers also keep an inventory of the kitchen supplies and inform the management when stocks are low. They ensure all food and other supplies are stored properly.
Where Does a Kitchen Helper Work?
Kitchen helpers have the flexibility to work in various food service settings. Below are examples of where you can find opportunities for this role:
- Restaurants
- School cafeterias
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Hotels and resorts
- Catering businesses
- Cruise ships
Is it Hard to Become a Kitchen Helper?
Becoming a kitchen helper is relatively straightforward, as it’s often an entry-level position in the food service industry. Many kitchen helpers start in this role with no formal education beyond a high school diploma.
They then learn through on-the-job experience and training. Some employers may prefer candidates who have experience in a kitchen setting or a certificate/diploma in culinary arts, hospitality, or a related field.
This type of education can offer more in-depth knowledge about safety regulations, food handling, and cooking techniques.
What are the Skills of a Kitchen Helper?
While formal training can be beneficial, particular skills can be crucial for success as a kitchen helper. These skills range from the ability to work quickly and efficiently to understanding kitchen sanitation standards.
Speed: The kitchen environment is often fast-paced, especially during peak dining times. Kitchen helpers must be able to keep up with the speed of the kitchen, completing their tasks efficiently and accurately.
Cleanliness and sanitation knowledge: Understanding and maintaining health and safety regulations is paramount in a kitchen. Kitchen helpers know proper food handling procedures, how to clean and sanitize tools and surfaces, and the ability to maintain a sanitary work environment.
Ability to follow instructions: In a hectic kitchen environment, you listen to, understand, and follow instructions quickly and accurately. Kitchen helpers also follow recipes, prep directions, and cleaning protocols to the letter.
Physical stamina: Kitchen helpers spend much of their time on their feet, lifting heavy pots and pans and carrying supplies, making physical stamina necessary for this job.
Teamwork: The kitchen is a team environment. Successful kitchen helpers work well with other staff members, from dishwashers to head chefs, to ensure meals are prepared and served smoothly.
What is the Average Salary of a Kitchen Helper?
The average kitchen helper salary in Canada is $29,250 per year or $15 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $25,565 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $35,843 per year.
This can vary significantly on factors such as the location of the restaurant or food service establishment, the experience level of the kitchen helper, and the specific duties the role entails.
For instance, kitchen helpers in metropolitan areas may find higher wages due to the increased cost of living.
Job Outlook of a Kitchen Helper
The food service industry in Canada is expected to grow. According to the Canadian Job Bank, new job opportunities, particularly for kitchen helpers, are expected to be at par with an average occupation in terms of growth.
Jobs that are Similar to a Kitchen Helper
If you enjoy the hands-on experience and the fast pace of a kitchen environment but are interested in alternatives, consider the following list of jobs that are similar to a kitchen helper:
Line Cook
Line cooks are responsible for preparing and cooking food items per the restaurant’s menu. They work under the supervision of a head chef and are assigned to specific sections in the kitchen. They earn an average salary of $33,150 per year or $17 per hour.
Prep Cook
A prep cook primarily assists in food preparation. Their responsibilities may include preparing ingredients, storing food, and cleaning workstations before and after food preparation. As a prep cook, you can earn an average salary of $35,100 per year or $18 per hour.
Dishwasher
Dishwashers ensure that all food preparation areas and equipment are clean and ready to go. They wash dishes, utensils, and cookware and clean kitchen surfaces. Dishwashers in Canada earn an average salary of $31,200 per year or $16 per hour.
Food Service Worker
Food service workers may perform a variety of tasks, from preparing simple dishes, serving food, and clearing tables to cleaning up after meals. They often work in settings like school cafeterias, hospitals, or residential care facilities.
They earn an average salary of $35,930 per year or $18.43 per hour. All salaries are according to Talent.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an excellent work-life balance in Canada?
Yes, Canada generally has an outstanding work-life balance. Depending on the job and industry you work in, employers may offer flexible working arrangements to help you manage your professional and personal commitments.
Outside of work, there are many activities and places to explore. You can take part in a variety of cultural activities, enjoy nature, and explore historic sites.
Is it necessary to speak both French and English in Canada?
No, it’s not an absolute requirement to speak both English and French when searching for a job in Canada. Depending on the region you want to work in, having these language skills can be beneficial in finding work.
If you want to work outside of the French-speaking regions, it’s usually enough that you’re proficient in English. Regardless, learning French can help you gain a better understanding of the culture, which is helpful when settling into a new country.
Does the cost of living vary between cities and provinces in Canada?
Yes, the cost of living can vary depending on the city and province since each region has its unique cost structure. Generally, large cities tend to be more expensive than smaller towns due to the higher demand for services and goods.
They may have higher rent, food, and transportation costs. Alternatively, if you live somewhere remote, you may find that you spend more money on groceries and other items since there’s usually limited access to retail outlets.
Are there any restrictions on which jobs non-citizens can do?
Yes, there are certain restrictions on which jobs non-citizens can do because of the different visa requirements. If you’re a foreign national who wants to work in Canada, you likely need a work permit before you can start working.
The type of work permit usually depends on the job and your country of origin. You can also check with the local government to make sure that you comply with any special requirements for specific lines of work.