Kitchen Assistant at Elizabeth Maddeux

Job Summary

• We are seeking a dedicated and hardworking Kitchen Assistant to support our chefs and kitchen staff in maintaining a clean, efficient, and well-organized kitchen.
• The ideal candidate will assist with food preparation, ensure hygiene and safety standards are met, and contribute to the smooth operation of the kitchen. This role requires attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist in basic food preparation tasks, such as peeling, chopping, slicing, and portioning ingredients according to kitchen requirements.
• Wash, clean, and prepare raw ingredients, including vegetables, meats, and seafood, ensuring they are ready for cooking.
• Ensure that kitchen workstations, counters, and food preparation areas are kept clean, sanitized, and organized at all times.
• Maintain cleanliness of kitchen equipment, including ovens, grills, fryers, blenders, and mixers, following proper cleaning procedures.
• Wash and store kitchen utensils, pots, pans, and dishes, ensuring they are readily available for chefs and kitchen staff.
• Assist in receiving, unpacking, and storing food deliveries, ensuring proper stock rotation to minimize waste and maintain freshness.
• Monitor kitchen inventory levels, report shortages of ingredients or supplies, and help with restocking items as needed.
• Dispose of kitchen waste and recyclables properly, ensuring trash bins are emptied regularly to maintain a hygienic environment.
• Assist in plating and garnishing dishes according to chef instructions to ensure consistent food presentation.
• Follow food safety guidelines and hygiene regulations, including proper handling of raw and cooked foods to prevent contamination.
• Work closely with chefs and kitchen staff to support the timely preparation and delivery of meals during peak service hours.
• Prepare simple food items, such as salads, sandwiches, and side dishes, under the supervision of the chef.
• Assist with setting up and dismantling kitchen stations at the beginning and end of shifts.
• Handle and store kitchen tools and equipment properly, ensuring they are in good working condition.
• Ensure all kitchen floors are kept clean and dry, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
• Assist in checking food quality and expiry dates to ensure all ingredients meet health and safety standards.
• Follow all health and safety procedures, including wearing protective gear such as gloves and aprons while handling food.
• Support in preparing bulk food orders for special events, catering services, or large reservations.
• Work efficiently to help maintain a steady workflow in the kitchen, ensuring orders are prepared in a timely manner.
• Maintain a professional and positive attitude, working collaboratively with kitchen staff and other team members.
• Assist with special cleaning tasks, such as deep-cleaning refrigerators, ovens, and storage areas as required.
• Adapt to last-minute changes, urgent tasks, or additional responsibilities assigned by the head chef or kitchen supervisor.

Requirements

• Minimum of SSCE certificate
• 1 year experience as a Kitchen Assistant or in a similar role (preferred but not required).
• Basic knowledge of food preparation and kitchen safety standards.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining efficiency and attention to detail.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills to collaborate effectively with kitchen staff.
• Willingness to follow instructions and take on a variety of kitchen tasks.
• Food hygiene and safety certification (preferred but training will be provided).