26-27 Utility Aide

Utility Worker

The Utility Worker supports the school cafeteria and food service program by performing a variety of cleaning, sanitation, and basic food preparation tasks. The role helps ensure a clean, safe, and efficient environment for preparing and serving meals to students.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Wash, sanitize, and properly store dishes, trays, utensils, pots, pans, and cafeteria equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of the school kitchen, serving lines, dining areas, and storage rooms.
• Assist cafeteria staff with basic food preparation and meal service.
• Sweep, mop, and clean floors, tables, counters, and other kitchen and cafeteria surfaces.
• Remove trash and recycling and maintain clean waste disposal areas.
• Restock food, supplies, utensils, and cleaning materials as needed.
• Operate dishwashing and cleaning equipment safely and according to school procedures.
• Follow all health, safety, sanitation, and school district policies and regulations.
• Assist with receiving, unloading, and storing deliveries.
• Support efficient meal service for students, faculty, and staff in a fast-paced environment.
• Maintain positive and professional interactions with students, staff, and visitors.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Food Service Manager or school.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Abilities, & Skills

• Valid Massachusetts driver's license with a driving record in good standing required.
• Must be nationally certified in applied food service sanitation- may be acquired in on the job training programs with in the first 10 months of employment.
• Previous food service, cafeteria, custodial, or kitchen experience preferred but not required.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Knowledge of basic food safety and sanitation practices preferred.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced school environment.
• Strong teamwork, dependability, and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and positive interactions with students and staff.
• Must be able to pass required background checks and clearances in accordance with school district policies.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality required.
• Ability to successfully pass a physical exam by a physician chosen by the Food and Nutrition Services Department.
• Possesses good customer service and communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during shifts.
• Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull items weighing up to 60 pounds.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive motions.
• Must be able to work in hot, cold, wet, and noisy kitchen environments.
• Ability to safely operate cleaning equipment and kitchen tools.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination required for washing dishes, handling supplies, and food service tasks.
• Ability to maintain a fast work pace in a high-volume environment.
• Must be able to follow safety and sanitation procedures at all times.

Reporting Relationships

• Position Report to: The School Principal

Terms of Employment

• Position Type: Full Time / Up to 19 hours per week
• Schedule: Scheduled school year (August - June)
• Work schedule requires some flexibility, may require mornings, afternoons and/ or evening hours
• FLSA Classification: Non Exempt
• Non benefits eligible

Pre-Employment Requirements

• MA Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Clearance
• Fingerprints

The Somerville Public Schools does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, home status, marital/civil union status, sex/gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, place of birth, national origin, ancestry, cultural identity, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals' dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.