Kitchen Assistant (Part-Time)

Kitchen Assistant

Under the supervision of the Food Service Manager, the Kitchen Assistant helps prepare nutritious meals, maintains a clean and sanitary kitchen environment, and supports daily food service operations in compliance with CACFP standards. This role also serves as a substitute for meal prep and service when needed.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Food Prep Support: assist with washing, peeling, cutting, and preparing fruits and other ingredients according to CACFP standards.
• Meal Cart Preparation: prepare breakfast, lunch, and snack carts for classroom delivery.
• Dishwashing & Cleaning: collect meal carts, wash dishes, load/unload the dishwasher, and maintain sanitation of all workstations.
• Sanitation Compliance: follow all food safety protocols to prevent contamination and maintain a clean, organized kitchen.
• Team Collaboration: work closely with kitchen staff to ensure timely and smooth meal service.
• Health & Safety Adherence: follow all YMCA, state, and federal regulations related to food handling and kitchen operations.
• Supply Support: assist with organizing supplies, restocking stations, and putting away deliveries.
• General Cleaning: sweep, mop, remove trash, and maintain overall kitchen cleanliness.
• Substitute Coverage: provide coverage for the Food Service Manager or other Kitchen Assistants during absences.
• Complete additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• ServSafe Certification is strongly preferred; must be obtained within 30 days of hire if not already held.
• Food Safety Knowledge - Understanding of safe food handling, sanitation standards, & personal hygiene.
• Experience - Prior experience in food service, restaurant work, catering, or school cafeteria preferred; willingness to learn is essential.
• Physical Ability - Able to stand for extended periods and lift/move up to 50 pounds.
• Teamwork Skills - Positive attitude, strong communication, and ability to support colleagues in a semi fast paced environment.
• Multitasking - Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Basic Kitchen Knowledge - Familiarity with bussing, food prep, cleaning procedures, and general kitchen operations.

Job Type: Part-Time (Non-Exempt)

Schedule: 8-16 hours per week (hours may vary, please let us know your availability)

Pay: $16.00/hour. Plus, access to YMCA facilities for all YMCA Employees, Employee Assistance Program and Sick Leave.

The Y: We're for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

OUR CULTURE: Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are a safe place for children, teens and vulnerable populations, and all staff, regardless of their role within the organization, are required to ensure the trust that families place in us is earned each and every day. Child protection is every employee's job, and employees may not begin work until they are trained. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to strengthen our community, beginning with you.

YMCA of Central Massachusetts