CULINARY SERVICES ASSISTANT

La Crosse County; West Salem (WI); On-site; USD 17,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

La Crosse County is seeking a hands-on Culinary Services team member to help create positive dining experiences for residents. This active role involves preparing and portioning meals, following diet cards, labeling and storing items, and maintaining clean kitchen areas.

You will learn valuable culinary and safety skills while working with a supportive team to provide high-quality service to residents who rely on us every day.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and follow instructions.
• Knowledge of safe food handling (or willingness to learn).
• Strong work habits, cleanliness, and attention to detail.
• Ability to stay organized and work efficiently.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Must be at least 16 years old.
• Background check required per Wisconsin Caregiver Law.
• Food service experience preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and portion food for meals and tray service
• Follow diet cards and special diet instructions
• Label, date, store, and rotate food items
• Clean and sanitize kitchen areas and equipment
• Wash dishes by machine or three‑compartment sink
• Unpack, date, and store food and supply deliveries
• Follow food safety, infection control, and facility standards
• Interact respectfully with residents, staff, and visitors

Skills

Read instructions

Food safety knowledge

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Communication

Teamwork

Age 16+

Background check

Food service experience

Job description

Join our Culinary Services team and help create positive dining experiences for our residents. This hands‑on role is perfect for someone who enjoys staying active, working on a team, and making a meaningful impact every day.

What You’ll Do

• Prepare and portion food for meals and tray service
• Follow diet cards and special diet instructions
• Label, date, store, and rotate food items
• Clean and sanitize kitchen areas and equipment
• Wash dishes by machine or three‑compartment sink
• Unpack, date, and store food and supply deliveries
• Follow food safety, infection control, and facility standards
• Interact respectfully with residents, staff, and visitors

What We’re Looking For

• Ability to read and follow instructions
• Knowledge of safe food handling (or willingness to learn)
• Strong work habits, cleanliness, and attention to detail
• Ability to stay organized and work efficiently
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Must be at least  16 years old
• Background check required per Wisconsin Caregiver Law
• Food service experience preferred but not required

Physical Expectations

• Standing for long periods
• Moving between hot kitchens and cold storage
• Lifting/carrying boxes, pans, and food supplies
• Pushing/pulling meal carts

Why Join Us?

You’ll be part of a supportive team, learn valuable culinary and safety skills, and help provide high‑quality service to residents who rely on us every day.