Utility Assistant, Floater

If you have any questions about the position or our application process, reach out to us at recruiting-u@smith.edu.

About the role

Cleans service ware, cookware, and kitchen, dining room, and store rooms during assigned shifts. Assists in the cleaning of all Dining Services areas and equipment. Works cooperatively in a safe and sanitary manner with other staff members to ensure the efficient and professional operation of the unit in accordance with work rules and departmental policies. Supports the creation of a dining atmosphere that is cordial and accommodating for all students and college guests under the guidance of the cook or chef on duty and direction from the Manager. Assists in multiple dining locations during regularly scheduled shifts as needs arise. Reviews student worker schedules and recommends support for dining operations.

Responsibilities

• Ensure guest satisfaction by maintaining all dishes, pots, pans, silverware, glasses, equipment, and kitchen utensils are cleaned and sanitized.
• Maintain dishwashing station, three-compartment sink, and related areas are cleaned.
• Ensure equipment is clean and in working condition; reports any issues to management.
• Work with the student work coordinators to train, instruct, and develop competent workers.
• Assist in the routine cleaning and organizing of the refrigerators and freezers.
• Assist staff in taking inventories.
• Assist in cleaning and sanitizing all Dining Rooms and Service areas, including routine floor maintenance.
• Assist with restocking service ware and replenishing empty service containers during busy meal periods.
• Communicate with all people accurately, professionally, and in a timely manner, including labeling and dating foods.
• Assist the culinary staff in food preparation tasks such as chopping, cleaning, peeling, or other basic culinary techniques.
• Work collaboratively with the Dining Room Coordinator and Student Manager to develop student workers.
• Work cooperatively with the Area Manager, staff, and students to ensure an orderly and efficient operation.
• Review and understand all departmental notices.
• Utilize email and all college computer access responsibly.
• Attend departmental meetings and training workshops as requested.
• Participate in the preparation and service of special events, as needed.
• Complete required payroll forms and scheduling forms within stated or established deadlines.
• Perform all other related or relevant tasks.
• Initiate teamwork, collaboration, and cooperation between co-workers.

Requirements

• Completion of high school education or vocational school education, or 1 year of combined educational and/or commercial experience in a kitchen.
• Current state-approved sanitation certificate is required within 1 year of hiring.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing and perform basic arithmetic functions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Commercial kitchen experience.

Skills

• Must be able to tolerate exposure to water and cleaning chemicals, higher than normal noise levels, and heat and humidity consistent with that produced by commercial kitchen equipment.
• Must demonstrate adequate physical strength and coordination to effectively prepare, clean, and receive supplies while properly utilizing standard food service utensils and equipment.
• Must be able to safely lift and move 50 pounds, work from a step stool, walk and stand for prolonged periods of time, bend, reach, pull, and push.
• Must be able to manipulate utensils and equipment repetitively for variable periods of time—up to 70% of an assigned shift.
• Must be mobile between kitchen and dining areas and other campus food service areas.
• Must possess good vision, the sensory ability to taste/smell, and must practice good personal hygiene and wear clean uniforms in compliance with public health standards and consistent with college policy.

Pay

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement with a progressive wage schedule. The Step 1 hourly rate is $23.36. New hires are typically placed at Step 1.

About Smith College

Located in Northampton, MA, Smith College is one of the largest women’s colleges in the country and is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research across the liberal arts. A faculty of outstanding scholars interact with students in small classes, as advisors, and through student-faculty research projects. The College is a member of the Five College Consortium with Amherst, Hampshire, and Mt. Holyoke Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Students cross-enroll and faculty cross-teach across the Five Colleges.