Kitchen Helper I

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Ames, IAPosted Today

Role Overview

Iowa State University is hiring a entry-level Kitchen Helper I. This is a full-time role in Ames. posted today. applications are still in the early window, before most candidates have applied. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.

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Job description

Position Title:

Kitchen Helper I

Job Group:

Merit

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• Ability to understand and follow directions.

Job Description:

Keep the kitchen running and make a difference behind the scenes! As a Kitchen Helper I, you'll play an essential role in supporting food service operations by ensuring dishes, equipment, and workspaces are clean, sanitized, and ready for use. From operating commercial dishwashing equipment to maintaining a safe and organized kitchen environment, your work helps the entire team deliver an exceptional dining experience.

In this role, you'll wash and sanitize dishes, cookware, utensils, and kitchen equipment, assist with setting up and cleaning dining and special event spaces, and maintain the cleanliness of floors, walls, refrigerators, stoves, hoods, vents, food carts, loading docks, and other food service areas. You'll also help receive supplies, dispose of waste, and support the coordination and on-the-job training of student employees and other part-time staff working in sanitation and food service areas. If you take pride in keeping things clean, organized, and running efficiently while working as part of a collaborative team, this is a great opportunity to make an impact.

Schedule: Monday - Friday 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in commercial, institutional, or high-volume food service operations.
Experience operating commercial dishwashing and kitchen sanitation equipment.
Experience following food safety and sanitation regulations.
Experience coordinating or providing guidance for staff.
Experience prioritizing multiple tasks while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized work environment.

About the Department:

ISU Dining is a nationally recognized campus dining program committed to culinary innovation and excellent service. From residential dining centers and cafés to catering and retail outlets, we serve thousands daily, offering variety, consistency, and quality. This position plays a key role behind the scenes, ensuring every meal starts with a strong foundation.

As a member of the dining team, you’ll be part of a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen unlike anything most have experienced. Every day is different as you help manage large-scale meal prep, fine-tune recipes, and keep things running smoothly. If you enjoy leading a team, learning on the job, and working with talented students and full-time workers, this role could be a perfect fit!

Watch Our Team in Action!

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

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/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
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

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

09 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

0003a

Original Posting Date:

July 23, 2026

Posting Close Date:

August 2, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R19642

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

About Iowa State University

Iowa State University

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the Kitchen Helper I position at Iowa State University?

Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to Iowa State University. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.

Where is the Kitchen Helper I position at Iowa State University located?

This position is based in Ames. Iowa State University has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.

What does a Kitchen Helper I at Iowa State University earn?

Iowa State University has not disclosed a salary range in this posting. Many employers share specifics later in the interview process; you can also ask during a recruiter screen if compensation transparency is important to you.

When was the Kitchen Helper I role at Iowa State University posted?

This role was posted on July 23, 2026 (today). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.

Is the Kitchen Helper I role at Iowa State University entry-level?

Yes. This is an entry-level position. Strong candidates typically have 0-2 years of relevant work experience, internships, or significant project work. Read the full description for any specific qualification requirements Iowa State University has listed.