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Cooks Assistant

Cooks Assistants support kitchen staff by preparing ingredients and managing supplies, requiring strong organisation and teamwork skills.

How do I become a cooks assistant

Get qualified to work as a cooks assistant with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Cooks Assistant generally earns $1,100 per week ($57,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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There has been strong employment growth in this industry over the last five years. There are currently 136,900 people working in this field in Australia and many of them specialise as a Cooks Assistant. Cooks Assistants may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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A Certificate II in Kitchen Operations is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Cooks Assistant. You’ll cover topics including basic food preparation, working with perishables, cleaning food premises and equipment and working as part of a catering team. A Certificate III in Catering Operations may also be suitable.

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Further reading

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Cooks Assistant careers

A Cooks Assistant helps chefs, cooks and other kitchen staff in a commercial kitchen. You might get ingredients ready or prepare simple food items such as sauces or breads. Cooks Assistants may keep kitchen areas clean and make sure cooking equipment and tools are available when needed. You may check stock levels and take delivery of food supplies.

Cooks Assistants should be able to work quickly and manage several tasks at once. It’s important that are organised and can prioritise your workload. Cooks Assistants should be able to work as part of a kitchen team and follow instructions closely. You may have to work irregular hours such as nights, weekends or holidays.