Food & Community Engagement Program Assistant

Merrimack Valley YMCA; Lawrence, Northern (MA, KY); Hybrid; USD 22,000 - 31,000; Part time

Job summary

Merrimack Valley YMCA in Lawrence, MA is seeking a part-time Food & Community Engagement Program Assistant to support food access efforts, including the on-site pantry at the Lawrence YMCA and a mobile pantry serving local communities. The role provides logistical support, helps coordinate weekly pantry distributions, and works with partners to ensure dignified service.

The ideal candidate is dependable, physically able to lift heavy items, and committed to YMCA values.

Qualifications

• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks with frequent lifting.
• Valid driver’s license and a safe driving record.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexible and reliable in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate program vehicles for food donation pickups and mobile pantry events.
• Assist with loading and unloading donated food items.
• Support planning and execution of weekly pantry distributions.
• Maintain perishable and non-perishable food inventory.
• Provide welcoming, respectful service to pantry guests.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Teamwork

Driving

Physical stamina

Customer service

Job description

# Food & Community Engagement Program AssistantLawrence Branch - Lawrence, MA 01840## OverviewSalary Range$19.00 - $19.00 HourlyLevelEntryPosition TypePart TimeJob ShiftAny## DescriptionFood & Community Engagement Program Assistant Part-Time (20 hours/week)Under the supervision of the Director of Food & Community Engagement, the Food & Community Engagement Program Assistant plays a vital role in supporting the coordination and delivery of food access initiatives across the Merrimack Valley YMCA. This position provides essential logistical support to the on-site food pantry located at the Lawrence YMCA and a mobile food pantry that serves the communities of Lawrence, Methuen, Andover and North Andover. The mobile pantry distributes fresh and nutritious food at various locations throughout the region, helping to address food insecurity in Merrimack Valley.The ideal candidate is dependable, adaptable, and can work in a fast-paced, physically active environment while engaging respectfully with food recipients.Key Responsibilities Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:Safely operate program vehicles, including a food truck and 12-passenger vans (no special license required), for food donation pickups and mobile pantry distribution events throughout the Merrimack ValleyAssist with the loading and unloading of donated food items, including repeated lifting of boxes often weighing 50 pounds or moreSupport the Director of Food and Community Engagement in the planning and execution of multiple weekly pantry distributionsHelp maintain and strengthen relationships with community partners, donors, and funders while consistently demonstrating YMCA core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibilityProvide welcoming, respectful, and compassionate service to pantry guests, ensuring a positive and dignified experience for all participantsOrganize, stock, and maintain both perishable and non-perishable food inventory in pantry settings, including working in environments with varying temperatures (e.g., refrigeration and outdoor conditions)Contribute to a collaborative, team-oriented environment while remaining flexible to changing program needs and schedules## QualificationsAbility to perform physically demanding tasks, including frequent lifting and moving of heavy itemsValid driver’s license and a safe driving recordStrong interpersonal and communication skills, with a commitment to community serviceAbility to work both independently and as part of a teamFlexibility and reliability in a fast-paced, dynamic environmentComfort working with individuals from diverse backgrounds