Mobile Pantry 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 Mobile Pantry Lead plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient daily operations of their assigned area, whether leading in Mobile Pantry services or supportive assistance at the on-site Preston Court Pantry. While the position involves a mix of physical tasks, customer service, and technical responsibilities, the core of this role is the skilled operation and safe driving of our mobile food truck. Success in this role requires a strong ability to confidently drive and manage the mobile truck, as it is central to delivering essential resources to the community. This dynamic position is perfect for individuals who excel in fast-paced, team-oriented environments and are deeply committed to serving their community with care, professionalism, and a strong sense of purpose.

This is a fully in-person role with responsibilities divided between Mobile Pantry operations and support for the Preston Court Pantry. Mobile Pantry duties may require off-site work at various assigned locations or at the Food Program's main warehouse. Support for the Preston Court Pantry will always be based at the Food Program's main warehouse at 5361 Preston Ct, Brooklyn, NY 11234

Principal Responsibilities:

Physical Tasks
Mobile/Preston Pantry staff members play a vital role in pantry operations and are expected to perform essential physical tasks including but not limited to:

• Demonstrated ability to safely and confidently operate a large food truck
• Setting up and cleaning up Mobile Pantry distributions
• Operating warehouse equipment, including but not limited to pallet jacks, forklifts
• Stocking shelves with pantry items
• Carrying, sorting, and bagging produce
• Preparing and breaking down individual food orders for guests
• Assembling and disassembling pallets of food items
• Maintaining a clean and organized backstock area

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 include:

• Answering phone calls, responding to text messages, and managing voicemails
• Assisting guests both in-person and virtually
• Ensuring guests adhere to pantry rules and guidelines

Technical Tasks

Staff members are required to efficiently utilize the pantry's digital systems and office equipment to support operations. Key tasks include:

• Managing communications and relationships with our Mobile Pantry partners
• Operating office equipment, including printers, iPads, laptops, and smartphones
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, and inventory management computer programs
• Managing and adjusting guest and partner 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 computer literacy skills
• Attention to detail, especially across multiple tasks
• 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
• 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)
• Possession of a valid, up-to-date driver’s license suitable for operating vehicles (required)
• Knowledge of Kosher and/or Halal food rules or willingness to learn (preferred)
• CDL certification (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, carrying iPad, files, and cases of various food items (10-50 pounds)
3. Required Occasionally: Reaching above the shoulder, pushing and pulling

Special Requirements:

• The Preston Court Pantry operates in a warehouse environment, while Mobile sites are entirely outdoors, requiring staff to adapt to varying weather and climate conditions. To maintain a safe working environment, all staff must strictly follow established safety protocols and guidelines.
• Steel-toe work boots must be worn at all times while operating 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.