Kitchen Assistant

The Kitchen Assistant plays a vital role in the smooth operation of a high-volume production kitchen, supporting the Cook and Cook Assistant in all aspects of lunch service. Key responsibilities include assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness and organization, operating dishwashing equipment, and managing pantry inventory. The Kitchen Assistant also helps ensure that food is prepared and served in accordance with New York State and NYC Department of Health regulations.

In addition to back-of-house duties, the Kitchen Assistant supports volunteer staff, providing guidance and ensuring tasks are completed safely and efficiently. The work schedule may occasionally vary to align with holidays, agency programming, or special events

Essential Job Functions

The following duties are core responsibilities of this position:

• Assist the Cook and Cook Assistant with daily food preparation and storage in accordance with health and safety regulations.
• Wash dishes and clean kitchen equipment and surfaces in compliance with sanitation standards.
• Follow standardized recipes and ensure meals are prepared using high-quality ingredients.
• Comply with all food safety guidelines, including proper food handling, storage, hygiene, and temperature control.
• Ensure accurate labeling of all food items, including ingredients, allergens, and preparation dates.
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment, including proper disposal of waste and recycling.
• Identify and report any issues related to food production or kitchen equipment to the Cook.
• Provide a welcoming and supportive environment for volunteers working in the kitchen.
• Support the Cook and Director of Nutrition and Meals Services with special projects and events as needed.

Other Responsibilities

• Ensure all kitchen tools and equipment are properly cleaned and sanitized after use.
• Assist with inventory control, including receiving deliveries and organizing stock.
• Participate in relevant training sessions to stay up to date on food safety practices.
• Promote a culture of integrity, teamwork, and excellence in the kitchen.
• Contribute to a professional and inclusive environment that values the contributions of volunteers.
• Assist with the setup and breakdown of meal service as needed.
• Support agency-wide initiatives, such as the annual AIDS Walk New York.