Kitchen Helper I

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University is seeking a Kitchen Helper I to join their dining team. The role involves maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen, washing dishes, and assisting with food preparation. Ideal candidates should have a team-first attitude and a strong work ethic, as training is provided. Enjoy comprehensive benefits including healthcare, dental, and flexible work arrangements.

Benefits

Healthcare benefits

Vacation and sick leave

Onsite childcare

Flexible Spending Accounts

Qualifications

• Ability to read, write, and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to maintain a safe, clean work area.

Responsibilities

• Wash dishes, glassware, utensils, pots, and pans.
• Keep kitchen areas clean and sanitized.
• Assist with event setup and cleanup.

Skills

Ability to understand and follow directions

Knowledge of principles of sanitation

Job description

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• Ability to understand and follow directions.
  
  

Position Title

Kitchen Helper I

Job Group

Merit

Required Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to understand and follow directions.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

Experience handling cleaning chemicals

Industrial or restaurant dishwashing experience

Job Description

Join Iowa State University Dining as a Kitchen Helper I, and be part of a team that keeps campus dining running smoothly! Enjoy being part of a fast-paced kitchen environment where you’ll play a key role in keeping things clean and organized. We’ll show you the ropes, so no experience is needed—just a strong work ethic and a team-first attitude!

What You’ll Do

• Wash dishes, glassware, utensils, pots, and pans
• Operate and clean dishwashing machines
• Keep kitchen areas clean and sanitized
• Assist with event setup and cleanup
• Help move supplies and equipment
• Work alongside students and a supportive team
  
  

Schedule: Both AM and PM positions available

Works every other weekend with a rotating biweekly schedule or a set weekly schedule. Schedule is subject to change based on operational needs

Check out the video below to see our team in action and discover what it’s like to be part of ISU Dining!

Watch Our Team In Action!

Our comprehensive benefits package includes healthcare, vision, dental, vacation, retirement, and sick leave, ensuring you and your family are well cared for. Plus, insurance coverage starts on your first day if you complete enrollment before the deadline!

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

• Scrapes, sorts and washes dishes, glassware, utensils, pots, and pans.
• Operates and cleans dishwashing and pot and pan machines.
• Moves clean dishes, glassware, utensils, pots, and pans and supplies to and from storage areas.
• Disposes of garbage, and cleans and sanitizes garbage can.
• Cleans and sanitizes food carts with live steam and detergents.
• Cleans kitchen equipment including refrigerators, stoves, hoods, vents, slicers, choppers, and tables.
• Cleans and mops floors and cleans and washes walls.
• Cleans and sanitizes utility cabinets, lockers, and the loading dock.
• Assists in arrangement of dining area equipment, supplies, etc., and in set up and clean up for special events.
• Assists receiving or storeroom clerk as required.
• Assists in on-the-job training of students and other employees assigned to the food service sanitation areas.
• Coordinates work of students and other part-time employees assigned to sanitation and food service areas.
• Performs other related duties and responsibilities as required or assigned.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Ability to read, write, and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Knowledge of operation and care of dis
• Washing machines.
• Ability to maintain a safe, clean work area.
• Ability to insure dishes, pans, glassware, and utensils are properly scraped or rinsed before placing in dishwashing machine.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationship with others.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to count, add, subtract, and convert to decimals.
• Knowledge of principles of sanitation, health hazards, and the necessary precautionary measures.
  
  

This position may be eligible for relocation assistance.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.

Appointment Type

Regular

Time Type

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

Full time

Pay Grade

0003a

Application Instructions

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
  
  

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [e-mail] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
  
  

Original Posting Date

June 3, 2025

Posting Close Date

June 13, 2025

Job Requisition Number

R17194

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Entry level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management and Manufacturing

• Industries

  Higher Education

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