Hire Kitchen Staff
Kitchen staff members are part of a larger team that make restaurant operations run smoothly. In more ways than one, the services they provide set the foundation for a kitchen to run efficiently.
Hiring kitchen staff starts with writing an accurate job description. It is the first point of communication between candidates and your restaurant. Create a job description that is clear, concise, and detailed. Are you looking for candidates who live near the restaurant? What is the schedule? Is prior restaurant experience required? Outline the responsibilities and requirements clearly. To make it fun and exciting, do not forget to include details about your restaurant! How long has the restaurant been around? Does it specialize in a particular cuisine? These details will help candidates picture themselves working in your restaurant.
Aside from general job boards, it is best for hiring managers to post job announcements on industry-specific job boards, online groups, and in community groups as well. Getting referrals from the restaurant employees themselves is an effective way to source candidates. Your staff may already know someone with kitchen staff experience so let them know about the job opening!
Kitchen Staff Responsibilities
Kitchen staff perform a variety of functions in a restaurant according to the needs of that particular establishment. They must be able to multitask without sacrificing work quality. Under the chef’s supervision, kitchen staff may assist food preparation workers in preparing various types of ingredients. Items include: meats, vegetables, fruits, and other food items which are prepared by slicing, washing, peeling, or chopping as needed.
Additionally, kitchen staff receive and unpack food delivery items, verify the correct quantities, label food items, and store them in the proper areas. They also inspect all food surfaces, refrigerators, freezers, ovens, and other materials to ensure cleanliness.
Kitchen staff must have basic knowledge of the menu items and assist in checking food presentation before giving them to food runners. At times, they may even serve the orders themselves. Lastly, kitchen staff cleans the kitchen area, mops, and sweeps floors.
Kitchen Staff Skills and Qualifications
To apply as kitchen staff, candidates must be knowledgeable about food health and safety regulations and work well in a fast-paced restaurant environment. Strong communication skills and the ability to follow proper food preparation procedures are a must. Also, the candidate must be able to follow instructions and supervision well.
Restaurants may require a high school diploma or GED and a Food Handler’s license. Relevant experience is an advantage but not typically a must as kitchen staff may be trained on the job.
The candidate should be able to meet the physical demands of the job, be able to stand for long periods of time and lift supplies and other materials. Lastly, the ideal candidate also should be willing to work in shifts, on weekends, and on holidays.
The kitchen staff provides valuable services to customers. Through their hard work, a restaurant can run its operations well, give a memorable dining experience, and leave a memorable impression on guests.
