Food Services Assistant (Per Diem)
About the role
The Food Services Assistant supports kitchen operations by assisting lead cooks with food preparation, ingredient handling, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace. This role helps ensure efficient meal production through prep work, proper food storage, and sanitation.
Responsibilities
- Assist lead cooks with food preparation, including chopping, slicing, and measuring ingredients
- Prepare ingredients in advance to support timely meal production
- Accurately portion and count food items for meal service and inventory
- Store food according to food safety and labeling guidelines
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen and prep areas
- Operate dishwashing equipment and ensure all dishes, utensils, and cookware are cleaned and sanitized
- Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces, equipment, and storage areas
- Assist with receiving and storing deliveries
- Dispose of waste and follow sanitation procedures
- Support overall kitchen operations to maintain efficiency and safety standards
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Previous kitchen or food preparation experience preferred but not required
- Ability to follow instructions and work in a fast-paced environment
- Basic knowledge of food safety practices or willingness to learn
Skills and Competencies
- Attention to detail
- Teamwork and ability to support lead staff
- Time management and organization
- Dependability and strong work ethic
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
This role requires working in a commercial kitchen setting with exposure to heat, cold, water, and cleaning chemicals. The successful candidate must be able to stand for extended periods, lift and carry up to 25 to 50 pounds, and perform repetitive tasks such as chopping, washing, lifting, and bending.
This position is a per diem role, requiring flexibility to work across multiple shifts, including weekends and holidays as required by the department schedule. Ability to respond to on-call requests and cover shifts on short notice is essential.