Kitchen Associate

Food Services Associate

Company Overview: Ocean State Job Lot ("OSJL" or the "Company") is a dynamic $850+ million general merchandise retailer with a strong foothold across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. With over 170 stores currently and ambitious plans to reach 180 locations, OSJL offers exciting opportunities for growth and contribution. We are an opportunity-driven retailer owning over 50% of our operating locations, totaling 8 million square feet, demonstrating our stability and long-term vision. At OSJL, you will be part of a team committed to delivering exceptional value to our customers while driving positive change and a more responsible future for retail within our communities.

Job Description: The Food Services Associate role at Ocean State Job Lot ("OSJL" and "Company") is responsible for operation of the OSJL cafeteria and vending operations under direction of the Company's affiliate, Encore Hospitality Group's, Managing Director of Restaurant Operations. The role assists in the operation of catering services, stocks and prepares food, utilizing kitchen safety techniques and health standards, handling, preparation, and servicing of food, vending machines and procured foods for sale. In addition, this role executes menus, meals, free lunch catering, safety inspections, and ensuring sanitary conditions in the kitchen and dining areas, cash management, and the overall efficiency of food service operations.

Hours & Schedule: Monday - Friday (7:00 AM - 3:30 PM)

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide exceptional customer service, be friendly and courteous to help keep customers coming back.
• Execute the food services program according to Company requirements.
• Comply with health and food safety standards, manage costs, select appropriate food choices, maintain vending machines, among other related duties.
• Track and receive shipments and purchases.
• Maintain clean work areas throughout areas of operation.
• Assure proper food preparation, portion sizes, stock management, and the continuity of overall presentation of food and vending offerings.
• Utilize problem solving skills to properly handle conflict or escalate to management as needed.
• Address complaints regarding food quality or service in a professional manner.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned by managers, affiliate hospitality management company, and owners.
• Assist with vending machine tasks and responsibilities as required.
• Performs tasks assigned with minimal supervision.

Qualifications:

• 2 or more years in a food service environment is preferred.
• Valid National Food Safety Certification is preferred.
• A valid driver's license and a clean driving record is preferred.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Maintains professional demeanor at all times.
• Good problem-solving and organizational skills.

Work Environment: Works in a kitchen and cafeteria environment. Food service associates can expect long days around hot cooking elements, often remaining stationary for long periods of time. Ability to stand and walk for long periods at a time as well as lift up to fifty (50) pounds easily. The warehouse environment is characterized by temperature extremes, noise, movement of conveyors and equipment, and other conditions associated with the operation of a high volume distribution center. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

OSJL Featured Total Rewards & Perks:

• Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including but not limited to Medical, Dental, Vision, and much more.
• 401K Program
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Associate Store 30% Discounts
• Enjoy complimentary access to OSJL-owned vacation properties, along with discounted gym memberships and 20% off at OSJL affiliated restaurants.
• Free lunch Fridays

This job description does not list all the duties of the job. You may be asked by supervisors or managers to perform other job duties and tasks, some of which may be essential to the position. Leadership has the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description is not a contract, either express or implied. You are an at-will employee, meaning either you or the Company may terminate your employment at any time, with or without notice. The salary range for this position is between $17.00 to $18.00 hour. Salary varies depending on experience.