Food Service Associate

Employment Services Elgin; St. Thomas; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A community hospice organization in St. Thomas, Ontario is seeking a part-time Food Service Associate to support kitchen operations and meal preparation with a focus on compassion and care. The ideal candidate has culinary training, experience in hospitality, and a commitment to safety and quality. This role involves overseeing food service duties and mentoring volunteers in a supportive environment, with compensation ranging from $22.00 to $24.00 per hour.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years’ experience in the Hospitality or Restaurant industry required.
• Certified in Safe Food Handling.
• Ability to respond quickly in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee kitchen operation, ensuring compliance with health and safety practices.
• Prepare nutritious meals that support dietary needs.
• Participate in audits and quality improvement activities.

Skills

Kitchen operations

Food safety compliance

Leadership

Meal planning

Education

Post-secondary diploma in Culinary Arts or Hospitality

Tools

Kitchen appliances

Food handling equipment

Job description

Role: Food Service Associate – Part Time
Reporting to: Manager of Hospice Care
Job Type: Permanent, Part Time

Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin is more than a place; it’s a feeling. It’s where compassionate care meets comfort, where families find connection, and where every moment matters. We believe that end-of-life care isn’t just about health care—it’s about how we make people feel. It’s about creating an experience that honours the whole person: their story, their spirit, and the people they love.

Rooted in the heart of Elgin and nestled among the trees overlooking Waterworks Park, our cottage-like design has ten beautiful private suites, cozy family spaces, and a peaceful, natural setting that invites quiet reflection, connection, and comfort. We provide expert wrap-around care—managing pain and symptoms while supporting emotional, spiritual, and practical needs.

This isn’t just a job, it’s a calling. A chance to be part of something meaningful, to walk alongside people during life’s most sacred moments, and to help families simply be families again. Whether it’s a shared laugh around the harvest table, a sunset by the fire pit, or a favourite song played one last time, we are here to create space for love, comfort, and compassion. Our noble purpose guides everything we do: We support exceptional care at end of life.

If you believe in the power of presence, compassion, and human connection, we invite you to join us!www.elginhospice.com

POSITION SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Manager of Hospice Care, the Food Service Associate is responsible for supporting day-to-day operations within the Hospice kitchen in the absence of the Chef. The Food Service Associate will ensure that all Public Health and Health and Safety standards are met and continually reinforced, all equipment is maintained in good, safe working order, and all work is completed in a manner that promotes the safety of all.

Key accountabilities of the Food Service Associate include, but are not limited to…

Kitchen Operations & Safety

• Oversee kitchen operation, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and infection prevention practices and control.
• Enforce proper sanitation, food handling, and preparation procedures in alignment with Ontario Food Premises Regulation (O. Reg. 493/17) and Hospice policies.
• Ensure preparation and cooking stations are clean, organized, and adequately stocked.
• Notify the Manager of Hospice Care of any required repairs or maintenance to kitchen appliances or equipment.
• Ensure safe storage, labelling, and timely disposal of food and beverages.

Meal Planning & Preparation

• Prepare nutritious meals and snacks that support the dietary needs and preferences of residents, including special diets (e.g., soft foods, diabetic, low-sodium).
• Assist in the review, revision and implementation of menu plans to reflect seasonal availability, individual preferences, nutritional guidelines and special diets.
• Provide input to grocery lists and shop for needed items within the approved budget parameters.
• Serve as the first point of contact for kitchen volunteers.
• Orient, mentor, and provide ongoing training and knowledge sharing with kitchen volunteers and staff.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment for all.

Compliance & Recordkeeping

• Participate in audits, inspections, and quality improvement activities as required.
• Adhere to and enforce all Hospice policies and applicable regulatory standards.
• Liaise with care staff to ensure meals align with individual dietary needs and care plans.
• Communicate clearly and compassionately with all others regarding food-related needs or concerns.
• Perform other duties assigned to support Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin’s Noble Purpose.

Working Conditions

• Manual dexterity is required to operate various kitchen appliances and equipment.
• Ability to lift to 50 lbs.
• Standing and walking.
• Fast-paced environment.

Compensation

$22.00 to $24.00/hour

Qualifications

• Post-secondary diploma in Culinary Arts or Hospitality is required.
• 3-5 years’ experience in the Hospitality or Restaurant industry required.
• Certified in Safe Food Handling.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and direct a volunteer team.
• Ability to respond quickly in a dynamic and changing environment.
• Knowledge of dietary needs with specialty diets.

Additional Requirements

• Proof of vaccinations may be required.
• Driver’s License and reliable access to a vehicle.

How to Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including but not limited to women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and those of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

Application Acknowledgment

If you believe in the power of presence, compassion, and human connection, we invite you to apply today to join us!

We thank all applicants for their interest in joining our team. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.