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If you’re looking to break into the culinary industry, the kitchen porter (also known as dishwasher) position is often the perfect entry point. While it may seem like a simple role, kitchen porters are the backbone of every successful restaurant, ensuring smooth operations and maintaining the high standards that keep kitchens running efficiently. In this guide, we’ll explore what a kitchen porter does, the essential skills employers value, and provide a professional kitchen porter resume sample you can reference when creating your own with ResumeChef.com.

What Is a Kitchen Porter/Dishwasher?

A kitchen porter or dishwasher is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and organization in the kitchen, primarily focusing on washing dishes, utensils, and equipment. However, the role extends far beyond just washing dishes — kitchen porters are essential support staff who help keep the entire kitchen operation running smoothly.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to observe professional kitchen operations, learn from experienced chefs, and potentially advance to cooking roles like commis chef, prep cook, or other culinary positions.

Typical Responsibilities of a Kitchen Porter

Kitchen porter duties vary by establishment size and type, but generally include:

• Washing dishes, glassware, flatware, and cooking equipment
• Sanitizing work surfaces, equipment, and kitchen areas
• Emptying trash and maintaining waste disposal systems
• Assisting with basic food preparation tasks (peeling, chopping, portioning)
• Receiving and organizing kitchen deliveries
• Maintaining inventory of cleaning supplies and kitchenware
• Supporting kitchen staff during busy service periods
• Following health and safety regulations

This role provides valuable insight into kitchen operations and is often the first step toward a rewarding culinary career.

Essential Skills for a Kitchen Porter

To excel as a kitchen porter, focus on developing these important skills:

1. Physical Stamina — Ability to stand for long periods and handle the physical demands of a busy kitchen.
2. Attention to Detail — Ensuring all items are properly cleaned and sanitized to health standards.
3. Time Management — Working efficiently to keep up with the fast pace of service.
4. Reliability — Consistent attendance and dependability during scheduled shifts.
5. Teamwork — Supporting kitchen staff and maintaining positive working relationships.
6. Food Safety Knowledge — Understanding proper sanitation, storage, and safety procedures.
7. Adaptability — Willingness to take on various tasks as needed during service.

Employers highly value work ethic, positive attitude, and eagerness to learn — qualities that can lead to advancement opportunities within the kitchen.

Sample Kitchen Porter Resume

Here’s an example of how a kitchen porter resume might look when created with ResumeChef:

Name: Alex Rodriguez
Location: Miami, FL
Email: alex.rodriguez@email.com
Phone: (555) 234-5678

Professional Summary
Hardworking and reliable kitchen porter with a strong work ethic and commitment to maintaining high cleanliness standards. Experienced in fast-paced kitchen environments with excellent time management skills. Seeking to contribute to a dynamic culinary team while building foundational knowledge for career advancement in the culinary arts.

Key Skills

• Commercial dishwashing equipment operation
• Kitchen sanitation and food safety protocols
• Physical stamina and efficiency under pressure
• Basic food preparation assistance
• Inventory management and organization
• Team collaboration and communication

Work Experience
Kitchen Porter – Ocean View Restaurant, Miami, FL
March 2024 – Present

• Operate commercial dishwashing equipment to clean 200+ covers per service
• Maintain spotless kitchen environment following strict sanitation standards
• Assist prep cooks with basic ingredient preparation during slow periods
• Manage kitchen waste disposal and recycling programs efficiently

Dishwasher – Café Luna, Coral Gables, FL
September 2023 – February 2024

• Washed dishes, utensils, and equipment for busy breakfast and lunch service
• Maintained clean and organized dish pit area throughout shifts
• Supported kitchen staff with cleaning tasks and basic prep work
• Demonstrated reliability with perfect attendance record

General Assistant – Family Market, Miami, FL
June 2023 – August 2023

• Maintained cleanliness in deli and food preparation areas
• Assisted with inventory management and stock rotation
• Followed food safety guidelines and health department regulations

Education
High School Diploma
Miami Senior High School, Miami, FL – Graduated 2023

Certifications

• Food Handler’s License (Miami-Dade County)
• Basic First Aid Certified

Additional Information

• Bilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish
• Available for flexible scheduling including weekends and holidays
• Eager to learn and advance within the culinary industry

Build Your Own Kitchen Porter Resume in Minutes

Starting your culinary career doesn’t require an elaborate resume — it requires showing your commitment, reliability, and eagerness to learn. With ResumeChef.com, you can create a professional kitchen porter resume that highlights your strengths and gets you noticed by hiring managers. Choose from clean, restaurant-industry-appropriate templates and start building your culinary career today.

The kitchen porter role is more than just a job — it’s your gateway into the exciting world of professional kitchens. Every successful chef started somewhere, and many began their journey in the dish pit. Present yourself professionally with a well-crafted kitchen porter resume from ResumeChef and take the first step toward your culinary future.