Kitchen Helper Onboarding Checklist

Kitchen Helper Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Kitchen Helper starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Hospitality onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Kitchen Helper, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Kitchen Helper onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Kitchen Helper Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The first task for a new kitchen helper would be to attend an orientation session. This session would provide an overview of the company’s policies, procedures, and safety guidelines. It would be conducted by the HR department or a designated trainer.

2. Introduction to the team: The new kitchen helper should be introduced to the existing kitchen staff. This task would be performed by the head chef or kitchen manager, who would facilitate introductions and provide an opportunity for the new hire to get to know their colleagues.

3. Uniform and equipment: The kitchen helper would need to be provided with the necessary uniform and equipment. This task would be performed by the HR department or the kitchen manager, who would ensure that the new hire has the appropriate attire and tools required for their role.

4. Training on kitchen equipment: The new kitchen helper would need to receive training on the various kitchen equipment and appliances used in the establishment. This task would be performed by the head chef or a designated trainer, who would provide hands-on training and guidance on how to operate the equipment safely and efficiently.

5. Food safety and hygiene training: It is crucial for a kitchen helper to have a good understanding of food safety and hygiene practices. This task would be performed by the head chef or a designated trainer, who would provide training on proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

6. Menu knowledge: The kitchen helper should be familiarized with the establishment’s menu items and their preparation methods. This task would be performed by the head chef or a designated trainer, who would provide detailed explanations and demonstrations of each menu item to ensure the new hire understands the ingredients, cooking techniques, and presentation standards.

7. Cleaning and maintenance procedures: The kitchen helper would need to be trained on the cleaning and maintenance procedures specific to the establishment. This task would be performed by the head chef or a designated trainer, who would explain the cleaning schedule, proper use of cleaning agents, and maintenance requirements for kitchen equipment and surfaces.

8. Stock management: The new kitchen helper should be trained on stock management procedures, including inventory control, stock rotation, and ordering processes. This task would be performed by the kitchen manager or a designated trainer, who would provide guidance on how to monitor stock levels, track usage, and place orders when necessary.

9. Communication channels: The kitchen helper should be informed about the communication channels within the company, such as shift handover procedures, reporting incidents or issues, and seeking assistance. This task would be performed by the kitchen manager or a designated trainer, who would explain the preferred communication methods and ensure the new hire knows who to contact in different situations.

10. Shadowing experienced staff: To gain practical experience and learn the specific routines of the kitchen, the new kitchen helper should be given the opportunity to shadow experienced staff members. This task would be organized by the kitchen manager, who would pair the new hire with a seasoned kitchen helper or chef to observe and learn from their daily tasks and responsibilities.

11. Performance expectations: The kitchen helper should be provided with clear performance expectations and goals. This task would be performed by the kitchen manager or HR department, who would discuss the key performance indicators, work standards, and any specific targets the new hire should strive to achieve.

12. Ongoing support and feedback: It is important to provide ongoing support and feedback to the new kitchen helper to ensure their continuous development and improvement. This task would be performed by the kitchen manager or a designated supervisor, who would schedule regular check-ins, provide constructive feedback, and address any concerns or questions the new hire may have.

13. Cross-training opportunities: To enhance the kitchen helper’s skills and versatility, they should be given opportunities for cross-training in different areas of the kitchen. This task would be organized by the kitchen manager, who would coordinate with other chefs or kitchen staff to provide training and exposure to various roles and responsibilities within the kitchen.

14. Performance evaluation: After a certain period, the kitchen helper should undergo a performance evaluation to assess their progress and identify areas for further development. This task would be performed by the kitchen manager or HR department, who would conduct a formal evaluation, provide feedback, and discuss potential growth opportunities within the company.

15. Team-building activities: To foster a positive and cohesive team environment, the new kitchen helper should be included in team-building activities. This task would be organized by the kitchen manager or HR department, who would plan and execute activities such as team lunches, outings, or workshops to promote camaraderie and collaboration among the kitchen staff

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Kitchen Helper checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Kitchen Helper up to speed and working well in your Hospitality team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.