Despite restaurant workers not being the most highly paid workers, the jobs they do are by no means simple or easy. Not only do you need to be able to make food if you’re in the kitchen, but you also need to be able to work well with others to be most efficient. This video by Bon Appétit does a good job of showing what it’s like to work a job like that.
How hard it is to get a job in this industry depends on multiple factors. Some restaurants may have higher standards for employment, especially if you’re aiming for a higher position (such as head chef). Once you get the job, you may have to deal with a lot of work without time to breathe, especially during peak times (lunch and dinner especially).
Juggling tasks is an important part of this job; in some places, you might find restaurants employing only one worker having to manage the kitchen all on their own, though this is less feasible for a larger restaurant.
You also have to be mindful of following laws and regulations on handling food. Dealing with raw meat, for example, is a recipe for disaster if you contaminate other foods. You also need to be mindful that you’re not cross contaminating certain things that may cause an allergic reaction. And, of course, making sure that the food is properly dated and disposed of once it’s expired is paramount.
