Kirkwood Community College

Internships > Culinary Intern

Culinary Intern

Culinary Intern

 

Overview:

This internship introduces high school students to the culinary arts and the fast-paced environment of professional kitchens. Interns will observe chefs and kitchen staff as they prepare meals, learn about food safety and presentation, and assist with basic kitchen tasks. This experience offers a hands-on look at cooking, hospitality, and teamwork in the food industry.

Responsibilities May Include:

·         Shadow chefs, cooks, or kitchen staff during meal preparation and service

·         Assist with non-cooking tasks such as washing, prepping, or organizing ingredients

·         Learn about food safety, sanitation, and proper procedures

·         Observe plating, presentation, and teamwork in a professional kitchen

·         Help with kitchen organization, stocking supplies, and cleaning tasks

·         Gain exposure to different cooking techniques and tools

·         Completing assignments, reflection journals, or internship workbook entries as required by the program

Learning Outcomes:

·         Understand the daily responsibilities of culinary professionals

·         Learn about food safety, sanitation, and kitchen organization

·         Gain awareness of culinary techniques, tools, and teamwork in food service

·         Develop basic skills in food preparation, time management, and communication

·         Explore career and educational pathways in culinary arts, hospitality, or restaurant management

Preferred Skills/Interests:

·         Interest in cooking, baking, or hospitality

·         Ability to follow directions carefully and work in a team

·         Respect for food safety rules and cleanliness

·         Curiosity about different cuisines, flavors, and kitchen techniques

Additional Information:

·         Interns will assist and observe; they may practice basic tasks under supervision but will not prepare full dishes independently

·         Compliance with safety, sanitation, and dress code (such as wearing closed-toe shoes and hair coverings) is required

·         Some placements may require evening or weekend hours during meal service times

 

Notice on Internship Opportunities

Please note that internship opportunities will vary by host site and county.

·         Not all career areas or placements will be available in every location.

·         Host sites may have different requirements, schedules, responsibilities.

·         Opportunities depend on local partnerships, availability, and community resources.

Students are encouraged to remain flexible and open to a variety of learning experiences. Each internship is designed to provide valuable workplace skills, career exploration, and professional growth - regardless of the specific placement.

 

THIS DESCRIPTION DOES NOT LIST ALL DUTIES. INTERN MAY BE ASKED TO PERFORM OTHER DUTIES BY THE STAFF OR SUPERVISOR. INTERN WILL BE EVALUATED ON PERFORMANCE OF THE PROJECTS LISTED AS WELL AS INTERACTION WITH EMPLOYEES AND CLIENTS. ON-SITE HOURS WILL BE NEGOTIATED WITH EACH CANDIDATE.

SAFETY EXPECTATIONS, INCLUDING HARASSMENT, SHOULD BE REVIEWED WITH THE HOST.




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