Kitchen Porter Jobs — What to Expect and How to Get One
What a kitchen porter actually does, typical pay, and how to turn a KP job into a cooking career.
Kitchen porter (KP) is the most common way into a professional kitchen with no experience. It’s hard, physical work — but it’s a genuine foot in the door.
What a kitchen porter does
- Running the pot-wash and dishwasher through service
- Deep-cleaning equipment, surfaces and floors
- Taking out waste and recycling
- Receiving and storing deliveries
- Helping chefs with basic prep when it’s busy
Typical pay
Most KP roles in the UK pay around the National Minimum or Living Wage, often £18,000–£22,000 a year full-time, sometimes more in London or with service charge. Split shifts and weekend work are common.
Why it’s worth it
A reliable KP who works hard is gold to a head chef. Many chefs started as kitchen porters and were handed prep, then a section, within a year. If you want to cook, tell the chef — and prove it by keeping your area spotless and never missing a shift.
How to get hired
- You rarely need experience — reliability matters more
- A Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate helps
- Apply directly to busy venues; kitchens are almost always short-staffed
- Be clear you’re happy with evenings and weekends
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