Sushi/Kitchen Associate

About the role

JAPANMART, an authentic Japanese style convenience store, is seeking a friendly, reliable, and motivated Sushi/Kitchen Associate to support daily operations for our cooked foods and sushi section. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, delivering great service, and being part of a supportive team.

Responsibilities

• Assist with sushi preparation and food assembly under JAPANMART quality standards
• Follow instructions and guidance provided by direct supervisor
• Prepare ingredients, including accurately portioning and cutting raw fish, according to JAPANMART recipes and quality standards, ensuring proper portion control and presentation
• Prepare all cooked food items, including as onigiri, soufflé pancakes, unagi bowls, and other JAPANMART menu offerings, while ensuring consistency, quality, and timely service
• Monitor cooking times, food quality, and adherence to brand standards
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, food temperature, storage, cross-contamination prevention, and health department requirements
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and properly
• Assist with packaging, labeling, restocking, product freshness checks, and inventory restocking
• Monitor kitchen supplies and report inventory shortages
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of workstations, prep areas, equipment, and storage spaces
• Assist with opening and closing kitchen procedures
• Maintain speed, efficiency, and accuracy during peak business hours
• Work collaboratively with JAPANMART team members to ensure smooth operations and order flow
• Communicate effectively during busy periods
• Support team members to maintain efficient operations
• Communicate effectively and provide friendly, professional customer service
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support daily operations

Note: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform any other job-related duties requested.

Requirements

• Sushi preparation experience preferred but not required — training provided
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Friendly, positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Ability to stand for periods of time and work in a fast-paced environment
• Strong attention to detail, cleanliness, and food quality
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work well in a team setting
• Bilingual (English/Japanese) is preferred but not required
• Fluency in spoken and written English
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• Food Handler Certification

Work Environment

While performing duties, counter areas are often hot with steam from steam table and food vapors. Workspace is restricted and employees are generally expected to remain standing for long periods of time. Employees are expected to prepare hot and cold foods, safely use knives and other kitchen equipment, and work quickly while maintaining accuracy and quality standards. Employees must be able to:

• Lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds
• Stand for up to four hours
• Reach across counter tops measured at 36 inches to serve customers
• Work in a fast-paced environment with high noise levels and limited storage space
• Adapt to a dynamic environment with changing priorities
• Manage challenging or high-pressure situations with composure

Pay

$18.00 per hour

Schedule

• Part-Time (30 hours or less per week, depending on business needs)
• Must be flexible with scheduling
• Weekdays, Weekends, Holidays

Work Location: 1107 S Baldwin Ave Ste. B, Arcadia, CA 91007