Culinary Class Assistant

phippsconservatory; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh is seeking a part-time Culinary Class Assistant to support culinary programs and ensure excellent guest experiences. The role includes prepping ingredients, managing participant engagement, and working with kitchen appliances.

Applicants should possess exceptional guest service abilities and effective verbal communication skills. A high school diploma is required and relevant experience is preferred. This position requires working weekends and evenings.

Qualifications

• Exceptional guest service skills are a must.
• RAMP certification preferred within the first 30 days of employment.
• Must communicate Phipps' mission enthusiastically.

Responsibilities

• Assist in culinary program preparation and kitchen cleanliness.
• Welcome participants and manage seating arrangements effectively.
• Operate kitchen appliances safely.

Skills

Guest service skills

Verbal communication skills

Computer proficiency

Knowledge of plant-based foods

Ability to work in fast-paced environments

Education

High school diploma or equivalency

1-2 years' relevant experience

Job description

TITLE: Culinary Class Assistant

DEPARTMENT: Adult Education

REPORTS TO: Botany Hall Kitchen Manager

GENERAL SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Botany Hall Kitchen Manager, the part‑time Culinary Class Assistant will be responsible for ensuring excellent guest experience through supporting culinary programs, classes and events. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. We strive to create a working environment that is inclusive, equitable and welcoming as we honor employee experiences, perspectives, and unique identities.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Assist in culinary program prep. Set up student cooking stations, wash produce, prep ingredients and maintain kitchen cleanliness and food safety policies.
2. Welcome program participants to the space, assist with seating arrangements, name tags, help answer questions and direct guests where necessary. Present Phipps in a positive, friendly and courteous tone to all guests.
3. Operate kitchen appliances including dishwasher, oven, induction stoves and small appliances.
4. Work proactively in assisting guests as needed, i.e., refilling water glasses, supplying clean equipment, and clearing materials from workspaces.
5. Assist in culinary program clean up. Wash, sanitize and put away all dishes and equipment. Properly store leftovers.
6. Assist in training new staff and volunteers in kitchen policies and procedures.
7. Perform other activities and duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Must have exceptional guest service skills.
• Obtaining a RAMP certification is preferred upon the first 30 days of employment.
• Must have excellent verbal communications skills.
• Computer proficiency required.
• Knowledge of food and cooking with an emphasis on plant‑based foods preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to communicate enthusiastic support of Phipps' mission.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND SENSORY DIMENSIONS

• Physical mobility: sitting, standing, walking for extended periods of time. Lifting/carrying objects up to 30 pounds; manual dexterity to operate keyboard.
• Mental effort: reading, writing, analyzing, and visualizing.
• Sensory requirement: Ability to communicate and respond to the guests, staff and volunteers in a friendly manner.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Must be available to work weekends and evenings.
• Will have occasion to work in or pass through any area of the Conservatory or growing houses.

MINIMUM POSITION GUIDELINES ( Education, Experience and Certification )

1. High school diploma or equivalency required.
2. Minimum of 1-2 years' relevant experience in the field preferred.