Kitchen Assistant

Description

Join an exciting program serving seniors at our congregate center in Sandwich, IL! Be part of a mission-driven team where camaraderie and teamwork make every day rewarding.  Voluntary Action Center is looking for a full-time Kitchen Assistant to support our cooks and nutrition program in Sandwich, IL. Our Sandwich location is a cornerstone of the community, committed to enhancing dignity, health, and self-sufficiency by offering high-quality nutrition services to individuals with disabilities and seniors through our congregate program and communities we serve.

Reporting to our Program Coordinator, the Kitchen Assistant will work Monday - Friday 30-40 hours per week assisting in the preparation of food and providing support services for our nutrition programs in DeKalb County. This position may require working some holidays with premium pay in accordance with company policy.

The ideal candidate will be cooperative, dependable and service-oriented.  The Kitchen Assistant is responsible for providing safe and nutritious meals, obeying all applicable food preparation regulations and exercising diligent care in all activities related to agency nutrition programs. This position must represent Voluntary Action Center’s mission and values at all times.

EXAMPLES OF MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• Under the general instruction of the Program Coordinator, performs general kitchen duties in the preparation and clean-up of meals.
• Assists with meal preparation as directed.
• Assist with special events as needed.
• Operates and cleans a variety of specialized food service equipment, i.e. dishwasher, commercial ovens and mixer, meat slicer and steam tables, etc.
• Cleans and inventories supplies.
• Responsible for cleaning and general maintenance of the kitchen and dining room. With emphasis in the area of cleanup during the meal preparation and after the meal has been served as directed.
• Ensures client confidentiality at all times.
• Maintains compliance with federal, state and local health and safety regulations at all times.
• Backup support to MOW program in DeKalb County when short staffed in the kitchen.
• Support delivery of Meals on Wheels to clients we serve as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• Culinary or vocational training in cooking or equivalent experience preferred.
• Hands-on experience in kitchen (restaurant, catering, or nonprofit meal services).
• Valid driver license with clean driving record and reliable transportation.
• Must be dependable, team oriented and able to work under pressure.
• Must be able to successfully pass a background check and physical exam.
• Strong work ethic and ability to handle sensitive confidential matters with discretion.
• Ability to work variable hours such as evenings and weekends if needed.
• Illinois Food Handlers Certification highly preferred.  Must obtain within 30 days or hire.

BENEFITS

• Medical Insurance
• FSA and HSA
• Short Term Disability
• Life / AD&D
• Dental and Vision
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Leave (PLA)
• Extended Paid Time Off (ETO)
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Bereavement
• Growth and Development Opportunities
• Retirement Investment Options
• Employee Assistance Program

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knife skills, cooking methods and recipe adaptation.
• Understanding of dietary needs (especially for seniors or individuals with disabilities).
• Knowledge of safety and sanitation precautions common to the food industry.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Reliable, patient and cooperative.
• Ability to follow policies, regulations, best practices, and procedures.
• Ability to work closely and cooperatively with fellow employees and build positive relationships.
• Excellent customer service and people skills.
• Strong attention to detail required.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive relationships.
• Ability to follow instructions and act as a team player.
• Must work cooperatively with the public and clients.
• Knowledge of safe driving and ability to follow VAC safety procedures.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The working environment is mostly done in a close-quartered kitchen area near ovens and/or grills. While performing the essential duties of this job, the employee is on his/her feet most of the shift. Ability to stoop, climb, stand for long periods of time and perform physical labor, physical mobility and stamina to participate in activities which may be strenuous. The noise level varies but is generally moderate to loud.

The physical activity of position requires the ability to climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, walk, push, pull, lift, and grasp. Exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally; and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently; and/or up to 10-20 pounds of force constantly to move objects, frequently from floor level to waist level, less frequently from floor level to overhead level. Visual acuity for depth and field of vision. Repetitive motions of the wrists, hands and/or fingers required. Must meet the medical requirements of a physical exam.

Voluntary Action Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran or military status or any other status protected by law. 

Qualifications

Salary : $15 - $17