Departmental Assistant (Pot Washer - Fall 2026)

University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 20,664 - 26,174; Part time

Job summary

University of Massachusetts Amherst is seeking a Departmental Assistant (Pot Washer) for Fall 2026. This part-time, onsite position involves routine manual job duties, including pot washing, cleaning utensils, and maintaining food service areas. Applicants should have a basic knowledge of sanitary procedures and the ability to work under varying conditions, including nights and weekends. Hourly compensation ranges from $15 to $19. This role is essential within Auxiliary Enterprises locations and runs from 8/30/2026 to 5/29/2027.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of approved sanitary methods for kitchen equipment care.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift heavy objects.
• Ability to work varied shifts including nights and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Wash pots and pans using manual or mechanical means.
• Clean utensils and food service area equipment.
• Transport food and clean dining service areas.

Skills

Ability to follow simple oral and written instructions

Ability to establish rapport and maintain relationships

Ability to perform manual tasks

Job description

Title: Departmental Assistant (Pot Washer - Fall 2026)

Executive Area: Administration and Finance

College/School/MBU: Auxiliary Enterprises

Department: Campus Center/Student Union

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Part Time

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Job Summary

The Pot Washer (Departmental Assistant) performs routine manual and domestic job duties in a food service operation, including pot washing, dish washing, and cleaning.

Essential Functions

• Washes pots and pans using either manual or mechanical means.
• Cleans utensils and dishes by scraping and hand and machine washing.
• Cleans food service area equipment, counters, floors, food carts, trays, and furniture.
• Transports food to and from storage areas, loads food carts, and transports food to serving areas.
• Prepares coffee.
• Operates kitchen equipment.
• Separates and removes trash and garbage and places them in designated containers.

Other Functions

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of approved sanitary methods and procedures for the care and use of kitchen, dining room, and food service equipment.
• Ability and stamina to perform manual tasks, including standing for long periods, lifting and carrying heavy objects, and working under conditions of seasonal high and low temperatures.
• Ability to follow simple oral and written instructions.
• Ability to establish rapport, maintain harmonious working relationships, and deal effectively with customers and agency personnel from varied backgrounds.
• Ability to work varied shifts and irregular hours, including weekends, holidays, and nights.
• Ability to work under exposure to hazards of wet and slippery floors and sharp surfaces.

Additional Details

This position will be within any of the Auxiliary Enterprises locations such as Berkshire Dining Hall, Hampshire Dining Hall, Franklin Dining Hall, Worcester Dining Hall, Blue Wall Café, and other Auxiliary Enterprises Cafés.

The successful applicant will be a part of the bargaining unit after working at least ten hours per week and six weeks in a calendar year.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in custodial or dining service environments, involving prolonged standing, carrying loads, and use of cleaning chemicals or food service equipment.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Schedule will vary based on departmental needs and may include nights, weekends, and holidays. This is a temporary position for the 2026 - 2027 UMass Academic Year, with employment from 8/30/2026 to 5/29/2027.

Salary Information

Hourly Rate: $15 - $19 per hour

Special Instructions for Applicants

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.