Departmental Assistant (Pot Washer - UMass Dining)

The University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is seeking a part-time Departmental Assistant (Pot Washer) for UMass Dining in Amherst. This on-site role covers routine pot washing, dish washing, and cleaning in a fast-paced food service setting.

Responsibilities include cleaning cookware and utensils, preparing coffee, operating kitchen equipment, and handling trash removal. The position is temporary for the 2026-2027 academic year with hours that vary by department needs.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of approved sanitary methods and procedures for kitchen and food service equipment.
• Ability and stamina to stand for long periods, lift heavy objects, and work in varying temperatures.
• Ability to follow simple oral and written instructions.
• Ability to establish rapport and work with diverse individuals.
• Ability to work varied shifts including weekends, holidays and nights.
• Ability to work in wet and slippery conditions.

Responsibilities

• Wash pots and pans by hand or mechanical means.
• Clean utensils and dishes by scraping and hand and machine washing.
• Clean 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.

Skills

Stamina for manual tasks

Customer service interaction

Ability to follow instructions

Flexible shifts

Safety awareness

Job description

Title: Departmental Assistant (Pot Washer - UMass Dining)

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 of time, 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 the 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 (10) hours per week and (6) weeks in a calendar year.

This position is subject to final budgetary and administrative approval.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in custodial or dining service environments, and entails 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 position is temporary for the 2026-2027 UMass Academic Year and employment will be from date of hire up to 5/29/2027.

Salary Information

Pay Grade: No Pay Grade

Associated Pay Grade:

Hourly Rate: $15 - $19 per hour