Food Pantry Team Lead

Met Council is America’s largest Jewish charity dedicated to serving the needy. We fight poverty through comprehensive social services and by treating each client with compassion, integrity, and respect. Our programs are staffed by experts who help over 325,000 clients each year and advocate on behalf of all needy New Yorkers. Our services include 100% affordable housing at 21 locations, family violence services, Holocaust survivor assistance, geriatric social work, crisis intervention and the largest free kosher food distribution program in the world. Our network of 120 food pantries, affordable housing sites, and JCCs provide services directly in neighborhoods across New York City.

Position Summary:

The Food Team Lead will play a key role in ensuring the pantry operates efficiently and effectively by overseeing daily operations and supporting the pantry team. The Team Lead will set the pace and standard for the team, ensuring tasks are completed smoothly and maintaining a balanced workflow. Additionally, they will serve as the on-site supervisor when the Pantry Manager is unavailable or off-site.

This dynamic position is perfect for individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and are dedicated to serving their community with professionalism and care.

This position is currently hybrid, with four days on-site at Met Council’s Preston Court Food Pantry (5361 Preston Ct, Brooklyn, NY 11234) and one remote workday on Fridays. Please note that the remote day is subject to change to on-site duties on a need-to-need basis, depending on organizational needs.

Principal Responsibilities:

Supervisory Tasks
The Team Lead position requires comfort and confidence in leadership, strong communication skills, and the ability to motivate and guide your team to success. Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing team performance to ensure operational goals are met
• Communicating clearly and effectively to guide staff through tasks and projects
• Providing direction and support while fostering a positive, collaborative environment
• Ensure smooth pantry operations in the absence of the Pantry Manager, including coordinating with the warehouse team, welcoming volunteers, and liaising with external partners or visitors.

Physical Tasks
Preston Court Pantry staff members play a vital role in pantry operations and are expected to perform essential physical tasks including:

• Restocking shelves with pantry items to ensure inventory availability
• Transporting, sorting, and packaging fresh produce
• Preparing and dismantling individual food orders
• Assembling and disassembling pallets of food
• Maintaining a clean, organized, and properly stocked backroom area
• Handling waste disposal and ensuring the cleanliness of designated areas

Customer Service
Exceptional customer service is a cornerstone of this role. Pantry staff are expected to interact with guests in a friendly, respectful, and professional manner, whether in person or via the pantry's mobile communication system. Key responsibilities are subject to be in person or remote and include:

• Managing incoming communications, including phone calls, text messages, and voicemails
• Providing support and assistance to guests both in-person and through virtual platforms
• Upholding pantry policies by ensuring guest compliance with established rules and guidelines

Technical Tasks
Staff members are required to efficiently utilize the pantry's digital systems and office equipment to support operations. These key tasks are subject to be in person or remote and include:

• Operating office equipment, including printers, iPads, laptops, and smartphones
• Managing and adjusting guest orders within the digital system
• Reviewing and utilizing reports to track inventory and other operational needs
• Additional responsibilities as required

Competencies:

• Excellent communication skills with an ability to communicate effectively and warmly with a diverse range of clients
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, and inventory management computer programs
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple complex tasks simultaneously
• Ability to work effectively with other staff members to maintain seamless pantry operations
• Significant organizational skills, with strong attention to detail and an ability to stay focused on assigned tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Strong prioritization skills and the ability to delegate tasks to team members
• Superior customer service skills
• Solid problem-solving skills
• Can-do, hands-on approach to getting the work done

Credentials and Qualifications:

• High School Diploma (required)
• At least two years of relevant work experience (preferred)
• At least 1 year of supervisory experience (preferred)
• Knowledge of Kosher and/or Halal food rules or willingness to learn (preferred)

Physical Demands:

1. Required Constantly: Walking, sitting, grasping, bending, stooping, squatting, computer input, finger dexterity and coordination of hand, eye and foot
2. Required Frequently: Standing and climbing stairs; carrying laptop & files (approx. 8-10 lbs)
3. Required Occasionally: Reaching above the shoulder, and lifting 5-50 pounds, pushing and pulling

Special Requirements:

• The pantry operates within a warehouse setting, requiring adaptability to changing climate and weather conditions. Staff must adhere to safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment.
• Steel-toe work boots must be worn at all times while in the warehouse. Clothing should be appropriate for a professional environment and public interaction, avoiding any profanity, political statements, or offensive branding.

Compensation: $22 per hour - $25 per hour.

Benefits: Major medical, dental, vision and life insurance; pre-tax commuter benefits; FSA; 403(b) with employer contribution; plus generous vacation, sick leave and holidays.