Food Service Associate

Market Fresh; Guelph; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A local gourmet grocery store in Guelph is seeking a Food Counter Server to join their team. This part-time, customer-facing role involves preparing meals and beverages for customers in a busy environment. Applicants should have food service experience and be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends. Join us for a rewarding experience, with perks such as staff discounts and a supportive team atmosphere.

Benefits

Company events

On-site parking

Store discount

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a café, deli, or food service environment is preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Flexible availability, including weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Greet customers with a warm, welcoming attitude.
• Serve hot meals, sandwiches, and wraps prepared by the kitchen.
• Prepare and cook pizzas to order using the in-house pizza oven.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Tools

Espresso machine

Pizza oven

Job description

Company Overview

Market Fresh is Guelph's premier independent gourmet grocer focused on local producers and products. We have been in operation for over 20 years and pride ourselves on offering exceptional customer service and quality food. Our full-service grocery store includes a scratch bakery, butcher shop, deli, commercial kitchen, Gourmet to Go Cafe, full kitchen, garden centre and giftware area. Market Fresh is a celebration of fine food—making us a destination shopping experience for community members and visitors. Our MF in the Community program seeks to raise awareness and funding for local not-for-profit programs and charities aligned to our mission to buy local, be local, support local.

Position Summary

We're looking for a personable and dependable Food Counter Server to join our Gourmet To Go team. In this fast-paced, customer-facing role, you'll be responsible for serving hot meals, fresh sandwiches, and wraps prepared by our kitchen, crafting pizzas using our in-house oven, and preparing beverages — including espresso-based drinks — from our coffee bar. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys working with food, thrives in a collaborative environment, and takes pride in delivering excellent customer experiences.

Job Structure

This is a part-time hourly position. Work schedule includes weekends and holidays as required. Paid vacation accrual at 4%.

Responsibilities

Customer Engagement

• Greet customers with a warm, welcoming attitude.
• Take and fulfill orders accurately while providing knowledgeable recommendations on menu items.
• Maintain a clean and inviting service counter and dining area.

Food Service & Preparation

• Serve hot table meals, sandwiches, and wraps prepared by the kitchen team.
• Prepare and cook pizzas to order using the in-house pizza oven.
• Ensure all food items are presented professionally, portioned accurately, and served at proper temperatures.

Beverage Preparation

• Operate the coffee and espresso bar, preparing a range of hot and cold beverages.
• Maintain the espresso machine and barista station to ensure quality and consistency.

Cleanliness & Food Safety

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards consistently.
• Keep prep and service areas clean, organized, and stocked throughout the shift.

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with both front-of-house and kitchen staff to ensure smooth service flow.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors regarding customer feedback, inventory levels, or equipment issues.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a café, deli, or food service environment is preferred.
• Confidence operating an espresso machine and pizza oven (training provided).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to multitask and stay composed in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to exceptional customer service.
• Flexible availability, including weekends and holidays.

Why Join Market Fresh?

• Be part of a respected, community-focused local business.
• Enjoy a positive, supportive team atmosphere.
• Staff discounts on a wide selection of gourmet foods and groceries.
• Opportunities for training, growth, and advancement within the store.

Ready to join our Gourmet To Go team?

If you're passionate about food, coffee, and great customer service, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and bring your energy to Market Fresh.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $17.20 per hour

Benefits

• Company events
• On-site parking
• Store discount

Experience

• Food Service: 1 year (required)

Work Location: In person