A kitchen steward ensures the cleanliness, sanitation, and organization of a professional kitchen, maintaining high hygiene standards (HACCP) by washing dishes, pots, pans, and equipment. Key responsibilities include cleaning floors, walls, and surfaces, waste management/segregation, and supporting culinary staff with basic preparation. This physically demanding role requires operating cleaning machinery, handling chemicals safely, and working in fast-paced environments.
Key Responsibilities
Cleaning and Sanitation: Washing cooking utensils, pots, pans, dishes, glasses, and silverware using dish machines or manual methods.
Kitchen Hygiene: Cleaning and sanitizing workstation surfaces, walls, floors, drains, and walk-in refrigerators/freezers.
Waste Management: Emptying trash cans, segregating recycling, and cleaning/maintaining the waste disposal area.
Equipment Maintenance: Cleaning ovens, filters, hoods, and steam tables. Reporting maintenance issues to supervisors.
Support Roles: Assisting chefs with basic prep tasks (., washing/peeling vegetables) and fetching ingredients.
Inventory Control: Maintaining inventory of cleaning supplies and ensuring kitchenware is properly stored.
Safety Adherence: Following all safety protocols, using chemicals according to SDS (Safety Data Sheets), and using personal protective equipment.
Required Skills and Qualifications
Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods, work in hot/humid environments, and lift heavy items.
Attention to Detail: Ensuring high standards of cleanliness and sanitation are consistently met.
Teamwork: Communicating effectively with chefs, cooks, and other staff to support smooth operations.
Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks during busy service periods.
Reliability: Strong work ethic and commitment to following hygiene regulations.
Common Qualifications
Previous experience in a restaurant, hotel, or food service setting is preferred.
Knowledge of health and safety regulations (., HACCP).
High school diploma or equivalent is often preferred but not always required.