Finance assistant, catering salary

Occupational Profile: Kitchen Assistant, Institutional Catering

Kitchen assistants in institutional catering play a central role in the daily operations of the kitchen. These professionals primarily work in larger kitchen environments such as school cafeterias, hospitals, and larger restaurants, where they assist with food preparation, serving, and sometimes also with inventory management and purchasing.

Job Duties and Work Environment

The job duties for a kitchen assistant in institutional catering include a wide range of activities. These can range from preparing ingredients and assisting chefs to handling basic cooking and cleaning kitchen equipment. An important part of the work is also to strictly follow hygiene and safety regulations to ensure safe food preparation and service.

Education and Qualifications

No formal higher education is required to work as a kitchen assistant in institutional catering. However, experience in kitchen work or completed courses in hygiene and cooking are advantageous. Many employers also offer internal training to help new employees grow into their roles and increase their knowledge in the field.

Salary Statistics and Development

The average salary for a kitchen assistant in institutional catering is 26 600 SEK. The gender pay gap is minimal, with men earning an average of 26 900 SEK while women earn 26 300 SEK, indicating equal pay within the profession. Since the previous year, the salary has increased from 25 200 SEK to 26 600 SEK, showing a positive salary development for the occupation.

Job Market and Future Outlook

With a constant demand for food and meal services in institutions such as schools and hospitals, the job market for kitchen assistants in institutional catering remains relatively stable. The profession can also serve as an excellent starting point for those looking to advance in the restaurant and food industry.

Tips for Success in the Field

To succeed as a kitchen assistant, it is important to be flexible and able to handle stressful situations, especially during busy meal service times. Good physical condition can also be advantageous as the work often involves standing and walking for the majority of the shift.

Benefits

Although benefits vary depending on the employer, many workplaces in institutional catering offer paid internal training and opportunities for professional development. This may include everything from courses in special diets to leadership training for those looking to advance to higher positions.