EO-NO-258 Kitchen Helper

Meals on Wheels; St. Charles (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Meals on Wheels is seeking a Kitchen Helper to support the Cook with daily meal preparation, cleaning, and packaging for the senior meals program. You will wash and prepare ingredients, help with salads and other menu items, and ensure meals are labeled, stored, and ready for delivery.

Ideal candidates may have prior kitchen or food-service experience or a Food Handler Certification, plus a positive team attitude.

Qualifications

• Previous kitchen or food-service experience is an asset.
• Food Handler Certification is an asset.
• Basic understanding of food safety and cleanliness.
• Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.
• Reliable, punctual, and willing to learn.
• Friendly, respectful, and compassionate toward seniors.
• Able to work in a busy kitchen environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Cook with daily meal preparation.
• Wash, peel, chop, slice, and prepare vegetables and other ingredients.
• Assist with preparing salads, desserts, soups, sandwiches, and other menu items.
• Follow recipes, instructions, and portion guidelines.
• Package and label meals for delivery.
• Ensure meals are properly stored and ready for the delivery schedule.
• Follow all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation procedures.
• Help prevent cross-contamination and follow procedures for food allergies and special diets.
• Keep counters, tables, utensils, equipment, and work areas clean and sanitary.
• Wash dishes, pots, pans, and kitchen utensils.
• Sweep and mop floors and assist with general kitchen cleaning.
• Assist with putting away food deliveries and maintaining proper food storage.
• Help check food supplies and advise the Cook or Coordinator when supplies are running low.
• Help minimize food waste and use supplies responsibly.
• Assist with kitchen opening and closing duties.
• Work respectfully and cooperatively with the Cook, volunteers, delivery drivers, and program coordinator.
• Maintain confidentiality and treat all Meals on Wheels clients with dignity and respect.
• Perform other kitchen duties as assigned.

Job description

Position Summary

The Meals on Wheels Kitchen Helper assists the Cook with preparing, portioning, packaging, and cleaning for the Meals on Wheels program. The Kitchen Helper helps ensure that nutritious and safe meals are prepared on time for seniors and other clients.

Main Duties

• Assist the Cook with daily meal preparation.
• Wash, peel, chop, slice, and prepare vegetables and other ingredients.
• Assist with preparing salads, desserts, soups, sandwiches, and other menu items.
• Follow recipes, instructions, and portion guidelines.
• Assist with portioning meals according to the approved menu.
• Package and label meals for delivery.
• Ensure meals are properly stored and ready for the delivery schedule.
• Follow all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation procedures.
• Help prevent cross-contamination and follow procedures for food allergies and special diets.
• Keep counters, tables, utensils, equipment, and work areas clean and sanitary.
• Wash dishes, pots, pans, and kitchen utensils.
• Sweep and mop floors and assist with general kitchen cleaning.
• Assist with putting away food deliveries and maintaining proper food storage.
• Help check food supplies and advise the Cook or Coordinator when supplies are running low.
• Help minimize food waste and use supplies responsibly.
• Assist with kitchen opening and closing duties.
• Work respectfully and cooperatively with the Cook, volunteers, delivery drivers, and program coordinator.
• Maintain confidentiality and treat all Meals on Wheels clients with dignity and respect.
• Perform other kitchen duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous kitchen or food-service experience is an asset but not necessarily required.
• Food Handler Certification is an asset.
• Basic understanding of food safety and cleanliness.
• Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.
• Reliable, punctual, and willing to learn.
• Friendly, respectful, and compassionate toward seniors.
• Able to work in a busy kitchen environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to bend, reach, and perform repetitive kitchen tasks.
• Ability to lift and carry food supplies, pots, and kitchen equipment as required.
• Ability to work safely around hot food, ovens, stoves, and other kitchen equipment.

Working Conditions

The Kitchen Helper works in a community kitchen. The position may involve early morning hours and working in a busy kitchen environment.

Salary 18.00$ / Hour

Reporting To

Meals on Wheels Cook / Program Coordinator

Schedule

Hours and days of work will be based on the Meals on Wheels meal-preparation and delivery schedule.