Kitchen Helper Jobs in Canada
Sector: Hospitality, Cleaning & Services · Typical gross pay: CAD 15–22/hour · Common locations: Quebec (Montreal), Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia
Pay (gross), overtime, and what drives your rate
Kitchen Helper pay in Canada is usually hourly. The numbers below are gross (before deductions) and can vary by province, employer type, and shift premiums.
| Scenario | Typical gross hourly range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level / training period | CAD 15–18 | Often aligned with provincial minimum wage; pace and reliability matter most. |
| Steady performer | CAD 17–20 | Better stations, faster workflow, fewer errors; may include shift differentials. |
| High-volume sites (busy service) | CAD 18–22 | Demand-driven; may include evenings/weekends and higher compliance standards. |
What can increase your hourly rate
- Province & local wage floors (entry pay is often tied to minimum wage levels)
- Experience in dish area, prep support, or high-volume kitchens
- Food safety familiarity (hygiene routines, labeling, cross-contamination prevention)
- Availability for evenings/weekends and peak periods
- Reliability (attendance + consistent pace)
How to apply
- Create or upload your CV: mavial.pl/en/cv.html
- Add your availability, preferred provinces, and any certificates
- Submit your application — shortlisted candidates are contacted
Hiring story: why kitchens hire helpers
Context that matches real kitchen operations
Kitchen teams hire helpers when the kitchen must stay compliant, clean, and fast — especially during peak service, seasonal spikes, and when sites run multiple meal periods per day (restaurants, hotels, cafeterias, and institutional kitchens).
This role is often the “backbone” position: keeping stations stocked, supporting prep flow, controlling waste, and preventing hygiene slips that slow down service. Employers typically shortlist candidates who demonstrate consistency, stamina, and clear communication on basic instructions.
Operational support roleA day in the kitchen (what you’ll actually do)
- Wash dishes, pots, pans, and kitchen tools; keep the dish area organized
- Clean and sanitize work surfaces, sinks, and equipment according to site routines
- Help with basic prep: washing produce, peeling, portioning, labeling
- Sort and store supplies (dry storage, fridge/freezer areas) as instructed
- Handle waste safely: garbage, recycling, and compost procedures
- Support cooks during rush periods by resetting stations and keeping items within reach
Work conditions you should expect
- Shift patterns: mornings, evenings, weekends depending on the site
- Pace: repeated tasks, high frequency, strict timing during service
- Physical demands: standing, lifting light-to-moderate loads, frequent bending
- Environment: hot/cold zones, wet floors; safety awareness is mandatory
Documents for legal work in Canada (general guidance)
No promises; employer and province rules apply
Requirements vary by employer and your status in Canada. The overview below is provided in general terms to help you prepare your documents.
Work authorization
- Open work permit or employer-specific work permit (as applicable)
- Employer onboarding may require confirmation of your right to work
Identity & onboarding
- Valid passport and basic identity documents
- Where required: background checks for certain sites (project-dependent)
- Site onboarding forms and policy acknowledgements
Candidate fit checklist
Quick self-assessment before you apply
You are a good fit if you…
- can keep a steady pace for repetitive tasks without cutting corners
- follow hygiene and safety routines even during rush periods
- communicate clearly on simple instructions and ask when unsure
- arrive on time and keep attendance consistent
- are comfortable working around hot/cold zones and wet floors
- take feedback calmly and adjust your workflow quickly
- prefer structured tasks and clear station responsibilities
This role is not for you if you…
- cannot tolerate fast-paced, repetitive work
- dislike cleaning tasks or strict hygiene rules
- often arrive late or need frequent schedule changes
- avoid teamwork and do not communicate during busy service
Related roles in Hospitality, Cleaning & Services
Internal links to similar vacancies
FAQ
Is a CV required?
Yes. Candidates without a CV are not considered. Use mavial.pl/en/cv.html.
What does a Kitchen Helper usually do?
Dish area support, cleaning and sanitizing, basic prep (wash/peel/portion), stocking supplies, and keeping stations ready during service.
Is experience required?
Not always. Many kitchens consider entry-level candidates, but reliability, pace, and hygiene discipline are essential.
Do I need a food handler certificate?
It depends on the employer and site policy. Having basic food safety training can improve your shortlist chances.
What affects my hourly pay?
Province, employer type, shift premiums, experience, approved overtime, and the pace/volume of the kitchen.