← BlogMay 12, 20235 min readEditorial teamDEUAENRU
For workers
Kitchen Helper in Germany: Duties, Requirements and Pay
Kitchen helpers keep hotels and restaurants running. You can start without formal training. Here is what to expect and what to bring.
What you do as a kitchen helper
As a kitchen helper you support the kitchen team. Typical tasks are washing and cutting vegetables, preparing ingredients, washing dishes and pots, cleaning work surfaces and stocking goods. Plating dishes and refilling buffets may also be part of the job. You work under the instructions of the cook or kitchen manager.
Working hours
Hospitality often means shifts: early, late, weekends and public holidays. Your hours are set in the contract. You are only entitled to surcharges for night, Sunday and holiday work if they are agreed. More in the article on overtime and surcharges.
What you should bring
- Reliability and team spirit.
- Physical stamina, as you stand a lot and carry weight.
- Care and a sense of cleanliness.
- Basic German or English to understand instructions.
- The briefing under the Infection Protection Act, see the Section 43 IfSG briefing.
Hygiene and safety
Clear hygiene rules apply in the kitchen: wash hands, clean work clothing, separate areas for raw and cooked food, keep cold chains intact. Non-slip shoes and cut protection are important. What equipment you are entitled to is covered in the article on work clothing and protective equipment.
Pay
The statutory minimum wage of €12 per hour applies to all employees. Collective agreements may provide higher pay. How to read your statement is explained in the article on the payslip.
How to prepare
- Find out whether an IfSG briefing is needed.
- Ask about the shift plan, breaks and meals.
- Get non-slip shoes.
- Have your hours and pay confirmed in writing.
- If you have questions, write to us on Telegram.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need training to be a kitchen helper?
No. No training is needed to start; reliability and willingness to learn matter.
Do I need German?
Basic knowledge helps you understand instructions and hygiene rules. Simple German or English is often enough to start.
What will I earn?
At least the statutory minimum wage of €12 per hour. Collective agreements or the employer may pay more.
Are meals provided at work?
It differs by employer. Ask before you start about meals and whether they are deducted from pay.