Cook's Helper

University of Dayton; Dayton (OH); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Dayton seeks a reliable Food Preparation Assistant in Dayton, OH. Responsibilities include preparing food, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Candidates should possess a high school diploma and have at least one year of food prep experience. This role requires strong communication skills in English, basic math skills, and the ability to work independently.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Opportunities for diverse candidates are encouraged.

Qualifications

• Must be able to read, write and effectively communicate in English.
• Must have basic math skills.
• Must have a minimum of one (1) year of experience in a food preparation position.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of food items according to the menu.
• Maintain a sanitary kitchen and adhere to safety policies.
• Serve customers and provide excellent customer service.

Skills

Effective communication in English

Basic math skills

Customer service skills

Education

High School diploma or equivalency

Tools

Commercial kitchen equipment

Job description

Apply now Job No: 503571
Work Type: Staff Full Time (1500 hours or greater)
Location: Dayton, OH
Category: Bargaining Unit, AFSCME
Department: Dining Serv - VWK - 800611
Pay Grade: 2 - Non Exempt (BU Dining)
Advertised: May 27, 2026
Applications close: Open until filled

Position Summary

Responsible for assisting in the preparation of all food items, in a timely efficient manner, as required by the daily menu or work sheets, under the direction of the cook and/or appropriate supervisory personnel. Responsible for assuring correct portion sizes as well as proper temperature of all prepared items. Responsible for maintaining a sanitary kitchen and following all safety and sanitation policies and procedures. Processes GET orders. Meets and greets the customer in a respectful manner and assures customer satisfaction. Serves the customer and provides excellent customer service. Communicates with others both verbally and written, in English.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must have a High School diploma or equivalency.
• Must be able to read, write and effectively communicate in English.
• Must be able to listen attentively and comprehend verbal instructions in English.
• Must have basic math skills.
• Must be able to work independently with the appropriate amount of supervision.
• Must have a minimum of one (1) year of experience in a food preparation position.
• Must be able to visually differentiate colors for the purposes of food safety.
• Must be able to work when exposed to wet floors, temperature extremes and loud noise.
• Must have working knowledge of commercial kitchen equipment.
• Must be able to exert well-paced mobility for periods of up to four (4) hours.
• Must be able to walk, bend, stoop, and use finger dexterity for periods up to 4 hours.
• Must have the ability to lift equipment and supplies up to 40 pounds in weight.
• Must be able to stand for up to four (4) hours.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree or certification from a post-secondary culinary arts training program
• Successful experience in a high volume ala carte operation for 1 year or more
• Managerial ServSafe certification
• Proven customer service skills in a work environment of three (3) years or more.
• Demonstrate a professional demeanor.
• Successful experience assisting customers
• Experience working with students and a diverse multi-cultural staff.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. The University does not provide work visa sponsorship for this position.

Closing Statement

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the dignity of every human being. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity in all of its forms, achieve fair outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. The University is committed to policies of affirmative action designed to increase the employment opportunities of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in compliance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1973.

This position available in multiple locations.