Kitchen Associate

Role Summary The Kitchen Support Associate plays a vital role in sustaining the calm, dignified, and nourishing dining experience at Camino Farms. This hourly position supports the Kitchen Leadership team by assisting with food preparation, meal service, cleaning, and overall kitchen readiness. This is not a fast-paced institutional cafeteria role. At Camino Farms, the kitchen is an extension of our hospitality mission. Kitchen Support Associates help create meals and environments that feel safe, predictable, and welcoming - especially for guests with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), trauma histories, or sensory sensitivities. Success in this role is measured by presence, care, consistency, and teamwork. Core Responsibilities Food Preparation & Service

• Assist with meal prep under the direction of Kitchen Leadership
• Support calm, organized meal service and buffet flow
• Help plate and serve food with attention to dignity and presentation
• Follow dietary accommodations, allergy protocols, and portion guidance Kitchen Operations
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen, dish room, and storage areas to all local and state health department regulations
• Wash dishes, cookware, and service ware according to health standards
• Assist with receiving, labeling, and storing food deliveries
• Support end-of-meal breakdown and reset for next service Hospitality & Guest Interaction
• Greet guests with warmth, patience, and respect
• Model calm, regulated presence during busy or unpredictable moments
• Defer guest concerns or special needs to Kitchen Leadership when appropriate
• Uphold Camino Farms' commitment to dignity in every interaction Health, Safety & Compliance
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards
• Adhere to allergy, cross-contamination, and dietary accommodation protocols
• Participate in emergency and safety procedures as trained Who This Role Is For This role is a good fit for someone who:
• Enjoys supporting others behind the scenes
• Values teamwork and clear structure
• Is patient, observant, and emotionally steady
• Finds meaning in service, not speed
• Is open to learning trauma-informed and disability-aware practices Hospitality, food service, or caregiving experience is helpful but not required. Full training for awareness of expectations will be provided. Required Qualifications
• Ability to follow instructions and established systems
• Willingness to learn and follow food safety practices
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 lbs
• Comfort working with diverse populations, including individuals with IDD
• Availability for flexible scheduling Preferred (but Not Required)
• Prior kitchen, cafeteria, or food service experience
• ServSafe or food safety certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Experience in camps, schools, care settings, or hospitality environments Training & Support All Kitchen Support Associates receive:
• Orientation to Camino Farms' mission, values, and hospitality culture
• Food safety and kitchen systems training
• Introduction to trauma-informed and inclusive hospitality practices
• Ongoing guidance and support from

Kitchen Leadership Pay:

$15.00 - $18.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person