The Kitchen Assistant supports the daily operation of Downtown Daily Bread's kitchen by assisting with meal preparation, meal service, dishwashing, food storage, inventory, deliveries, and maintaining a clean and sanitary kitchen and dining area. This position works closely with kitchen staff, volunteers, and other employees to help provide nutritious meals in a safe, welcoming, and efficient environment. The Kitchen Assistant must be dependable, able to work in a fast-paced setting, and committed to serving individuals experiencing homelessness with dignity and respect. This role requires flexibility, strong teamwork, and a willingness to learn and follow food safety and sanitation standards.
Key Responsibilities:
Food Preparation & Meal Service Assist with the preparation and service of daily meals. Support food preparation activities, including basic prep work as directed. Serve meals to guests in a courteous and respectful manner. Assist volunteers during meal service and provide guidance as needed. Kitchen Operations Wash dishes, trays, pots, pans, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen and dining area. Complete routine cleaning tasks, including taking out trash, breaking down boxes, putting away dishes, and maintaining workstations. Receive, unload, and properly store food and supply deliveries. Follow food safety guidelines for refrigeration, freezer storage, and food handling. Assist with inventory counts and identify products that need to be reordered. Collaboration & Communication Report equipment issues, sanitation concerns, food shortages, or safety hazards promptly to the Chef, Kitchen Manager, or Director of Operations. Collaborate with other Downtown Daily Bread staff regarding guest needs and daily operations. Assist with deliveries of food and kitchen supplies as needed. Other Duties Participate in required trainings and follow all Downtown Daily Bread policies and procedures. Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and operations of Downtown Daily Bread. Qualifications Experience working in a commercial kitchen, food service, or similar environment preferred. Knowledge of basic food safety and sanitation practices or willingness to learn. Ability to work effectively with volunteers and as part of a team. Comfortable interacting respectfully with individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, mental illness, or other barriers. Strong communication, problem-solving, and conflict de-escalation skills. Must be comfortable addressing rule violations, setting boundaries, and engaging in direct, respectful confrontation when required. Strong work ethic with demonstrated reliability and punctuality. Ability to follow instructions, adapt to changing priorities, and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Ability to safely handle kitchen equipment and supplies. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift. Ability to frequently bend, stoop, lift, carry, and move supplies weighing up to 50 pounds. Ability to climb stairs as needed. Ability to work in a warm kitchen environment for extended periods. Work Environment Fast-paced commercial kitchen serving large numbers of guests daily. Frequent exposure to hot surfaces, commercial kitchen equipment, cleaning chemicals, and varying temperatures. Regular interaction with volunteers, staff, and individuals experiencing homelessness. Requires maintaining high standards of cleanliness, food safety, and professionalism throughout each shift. Downtown Daily Bread is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team in service of our mission. www.downtowndailybread.org | (717) 238-4717
Job Type:
Part-time Pay:
$18.50 per hour People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
