Job Description, Duties, Interview Questions and Salary for Kitchen Steward / Dishwasher

The roles of steward and dishwasher are crucial in the smooth running of any restaurant or catering business. The steward is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and orderliness in the dining area, ensuring that tables are set and cleared in a timely manner, and attending to the needs of customers. On the other hand, the dishwasher is responsible for cleaning and sanitizing all dishes, utensils, and cooking equipment used in the kitchen.

While these roles may seem mundane and unimportant, they play a vital role in ensuring that customers have an enjoyable dining experience. Without a diligent steward, customers may find themselves sitting at dirty tables or waiting longer than necessary for their meals. Additionally, without a skilled dishwasher, dishes may not be properly cleaned and sanitized, putting customers at risk of foodborne illnesses.

Despite the challenges and hard work that come with these positions, many people find them to be rewarding entry-level jobs in the hospitality industry. With dedication and a strong work ethic, stewards and dishwashers can work their way up the ranks and pursue other career opportunities in the field.

Primarily Responsible for Operating and maintaining cleaning equipment and tools. Also responsible for washing dishes, china ware, flatware, cutlery, crockery, kitchen vessels, sweeping and mopping floors, cleaning and detailing equipment, etc. Maintains the kitchen, dishwashing, and back area in an inspection-ready condition by local authority and hotel guidelines.

Steward / Dishwasher Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ensure the kitchen is clean, well-maintained, and organized at all times.
• Ensure floors are dry and clean at all times.
• Operate pot-washing machinery and maintain a hygienic working environment by hygiene regulations and company standards.
• Adhere to all sanitation guidelines.
• Assist the Cooks and Servers as and when necessary.
• Collects and removes trash from all areas of the operation following established procedures.
• Dispose of waste as per the hotel and authority standards and Adhere to recycling guidelines.
• Ensure the waste bin area is kept clean and tidy.
• Carry out general cleaning as directed including sweeping, mopping up, washing up, and emptying rubbish bins and boxes ensuring placement in the correct containers
• Cleans and sanitizes pots, pans, utensils, and other minor equipment routinely used in the kitchen following established procedures.
• Cleans and maintains floors and walls in kitchen and dishwashing area by following standard procedures.
• Cleans and sanitizes dishes and related service ware following established procedures.
• Cleans large equipment as assigned, following established procedures.
• Consistently adheres to SDS (SafetySafety is a condition in which persons are safe from injury; hurt; or loss while present in the work... Data Sheet) information related to the proper and safe use of chemicals in the workplace.
• Knowledge and proficiency to operate industrial dishwashers.
• Ensure all equipment is clean and in good working order.
• Check all chemical levels and inventory.
• WashWash - 1) Brushing or coating a food item with a liquid such as egg white; milk or egg wash. 2) The ..., Wipe, Sort, stack dishes, and load/unload the dishwasher.
• Wash, Wipe, Sort, stack, and store all cleaned items in an organized and safe manner.
• If any breakages or chipped items are found then remove them from circulation and update the breakage and inventory register.
• Clean, sanitize, and close workstations.
• Uses and maintains all equipment according to manufacturer and department guidelines.
• Report any maintenance or hazard issues to the chief steward/stewarding manager.
• Assist in light food preparation as directed by the manager or chef on duty.
• Assist in serving food and beverages to the residents in the dining room.
• The Kitchen Steward, upon demonstrated job performance excellence, will be considered for numerous growth opportunities.
• Always Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Other duties as assigned.

POSITION TITLE: Steward / Dishwasher

REPORTS TO: Chief Steward / Executive Chef

PREREQUISITES:

The right candidate should have a positive attitude, CommunicateCommunicate is to pass or receive knowledge; instructions; or data and to ensure understanding. effectively, work under pressure and Priorities, and work efficiently with limited supervision.

EDUCATION:

High school or equivalent diploma.

EXPERIENCE:

Previous experience in a similar role and Knowledge of Basic Food Hygiene.

Interview Questions For a Steward or Dishwasher Position:

When interviewing candidates for a Steward or Dishwasher position, it’s essential to assess their work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to maintain cleanliness in a kitchen environment. Here are some interview questions you might consider:

Work Experience and Skills:

1. Can you describe your previous experience as a steward or dishwasher, including any specific duties you performed?
   • Look for candidates with relevant experience in kitchen stewarding.
2. What skills do you possess that make you well-suited for the role of a steward or dishwasher?
   • Assess their understanding of the responsibilities and necessary skills for the position.

Attention to Detail and Cleanliness:

3. How do you ensure that dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized?
   • Evaluate their attention to cleanliness and adherence to hygiene standards.
4. What steps do you take to prevent cross-contamination and maintain a hygienic kitchen environment?
   • Assess their knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.

Teamwork and Communication:

5. How do you collaborate with other kitchen staff, such as chefs and servers, to ensure a smooth workflow in the kitchen?
   • Evaluate their ability to work as part of a team and communicate effectively.

Time Management:

6. How do you manage your time efficiently to keep up with the demands of a fast-paced kitchen environment?
   • Assess their ability to handle the workload and prioritize tasks.
7. Can you share an example of a time when you had to work under tight deadlines or handle a high volume of dishes?
   • Evaluate their ability to work efficiently in challenging situations.

Handling Kitchen Equipment:

8. Are you familiar with operating commercial dishwashing equipment, and how do you troubleshoot any issues that may arise?
   • Assess their technical skills and understanding of kitchen equipment.

Initiative and Problem-Solving:

9. How do you handle situations where you notice a potential issue with cleanliness or equipment malfunction in the kitchen?
   • Evaluate their ability to take initiative and address problems promptly.

Physical Stamina:

10. Working in a kitchen can be physically demanding. How do you ensure that you maintain the stamina needed for the job?
    • Assess their awareness of the physical demands of the role and their commitment to staying fit for the job.

Salary Information For Steward or Dishwasher position:

Salaries for Stewards or Dishwashers can vary based on factors such as location, type of establishment, and level of experience. As of January 2024, the average hourly wage for dishwashers in the United States ranged from $9 to $15, depending on the specific circumstances.

However, salaries can vary, and it’s advisable to check the latest salary data from reliable sources for the most up-to-date information. Keep in mind that specific industries or regions may have different salary ranges, so research is based on the relevant context.