About The Open Door:

Our mission is to end local hunger through access to healthy food. The Open Door is the largest food shelf in Dakota County providing fresh and healthy food to more than 25,000 individuals each month through a variety of innovative programs. Our Mobile Food programs make healthy food accessible to more than 30 sites across Dakota County each month. Our work is powered by more than 1,200 volunteers each year and supported by a generous community of donors who make our work possible.

Position Summary:

The Food Program Assistant supports the day-to-day operation of The Open Door's food programs, with a particular focus on afternoon and evening operations. This position combines direct client and volunteer support with a broad range of pantry, warehouse, distribution, stocking, cleaning, and operational responsibilities. The position will regularly communicate with clients in Spanish and help ensure that clients have a welcoming and dignified experience. The Food Program Assistant works across operational areas as needed to keep programs running smoothly and facilities prepared for clients, volunteers, partners, and staff. This position requires flexibility, initiative, and a willingness to move between client-facing and behind-the-scenes responsibilities throughout the week. The Food Program Assistant will work under the direction of the Senior Program Manager for Onsite Operations and will work within the guidelines, policies and mission of the organization and will be accountable for specific projects as assigned. Primary Duties & Essential Responsibilities Provide welcoming, dignified client service in person and by phone, including Spanish-language support; conduct new-client intakes and schedule appointments using client database software. Assist in pantry operations, helping ensure a smooth, welcoming experience for clients. Train and support volunteers during shifts, including assigning tasks and stepping into volunteer roles as needed. Prepare and maintain the pantry and warehouse for service, including stocking, organizing, packing, cleaning, and resetting work areas. Provide warehouse and food distribution support, including moving and organizing food and supplies, assisting with drive-through distributions, partner pickups, and other distribution activities. Assist with closing procedures and end-of-day responsibilities, including cleaning, sweeping, trash removal, and ensuring the facility is stocked, organized, and ready for the next shift. Flex among client service, pantry, warehouse, distribution, cleaning, and other food program responsibilities based on daily operational needs provided by supervisor. Experience and Skills Conversational Spanish required. At least 1 year of related experience (retail, customer service, food shelf). Strong phone and computer skills. Ability to stand for long periods of time and lift up to 30 pounds. Ability to kneel, bend and twist Comfortable working across different operational areas and adapting to changing priorities. Ideal Competencies Strong desire to eradicate hunger in Dakota County. Strong appreciation of volunteers and their value. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions and changing priorities. Ability to support clients of all ages, cultures, and abilities without judgment or bias. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Flexible, dependable, and willing to assist wherever needed to support food program operations. Strong organizational skills and attention to cleanliness, safety, and readiness. Positive and professional communication with clients, volunteers, partners, and coworkers. Initiative and good judgment in identifying and addressing operational needs. Work Schedule The Food Program Assistant will maintain a flexible work schedule consisting primarily of afternoons and evenings, with some daytime hours. Exact schedule and hours will be determined based on operational needs. Benefits The Open Door offers a competitive benefits package which includes: Paid Time Off (4 weeks, prorated by number of hours worked) Company-paid Long-Term Disability insurance Company-paid Life Insurance policy Simple IRA with up to 3% match Healthcare reimbursement program (ICHRA) Dental Plan (employer/employee share cost) MN Paid Family & Medical Leave (employer/employee share cost)