Kitchen Assistant/Dishwasher

Childpeace Montessori School; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 18,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Childpeace Montessori School is seeking a dependable Kitchen Assistant/Dishwasher to support our school kitchen and maintain a clean, safe, efficient cooking hub for the community.

The role focuses on dishwashing, sanitation, and basic food prep when needed; requires CPR/First Aid and background checks. Part-time, on-site position in Portland, with pay dependent on experience.

Qualifications

• Experience in kitchen or dishwashing is preferred but not required.
• Basic cooking skills and comfort with food preparation.
• Ability to follow simple recipes and kitchen instructions.
• Strong attention to cleanliness and organization.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable, punctual, and consistent attendance.

Responsibilities

• Wash dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment throughout the day.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, dishwashing area, and food prep spaces.
• Perform general cleaning duties, including wiping surfaces, sweeping, and mopping floors.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.
• Assist with basic kitchen tasks, including light food preparation and organizing supplies.
• Support meal preparation as needed and step in to assist if the Kitchen Manager is out.
• Support kitchen staff in maintaining an efficient workflow.

Skills

Dishwashing

Food safety

Cleanliness

Team player

Reliability

Basic cooking

Independent worker

Education

Background Check Enrollment in Central Background Registry

CPR / First Aid Certification

Oregon Food Handlers Card

Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse (RRCAN)

Introduction to Child Care Health and Safety (ICCHS)

Job description

Position Overview

Childpeace Montessori School is seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Kitchen Assistant/Dishwasher to support our school kitchen. This role is essential to maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient kitchen environment that serves as the food preparation hub for our entire community.

This position is primarily focused on dishwashing and kitchen sanitation and involves consistent physical activity throughout the shift. In addition, the role may support basic food preparation and should be comfortable stepping in for meal prep if the Kitchen Manager is unavailable.

Key Responsibilities

• Wash dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment throughout the day
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, dishwashing area, and food prep spaces
• Perform general cleaning duties, including wiping surfaces, sweeping, and mopping floors
• Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards
• Assist with basic kitchen tasks, including light food preparation and organizing supplies
• Support meal preparation as needed and step in to assist if the Kitchen Manager is out
• Support kitchen staff in maintaining an efficient workflow

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and move continuously for extended periods
• Frequent bending, reaching, and lifting
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 40 pounds
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, physically active environment

Qualifications

• Prior kitchen or dishwashing experience preferred but not required
• Basic cooking skills and comfort with food preparation
• Ability to follow simple recipes and kitchen instructions
• Strong attention to cleanliness and organization
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Reliable, punctual, and consistent attendance

Required Training & Certifications

The following trainings and certifications are required for this role. Time spent completing required trainings will be paid.

• Background Check / Enrollment in the Central Background Registry
• Adult & Pediatric CPR / First Aid Certification (Red Cross or other local providers)
• Oregon Food Handlers Card https://www.efoodcard.com/or/
• Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse (RRCAN)
• Introduction to Child Care Health and Safety (ICCHS)

Compensation

• Hourly position; pay dependent on experience
• This part-time position is not eligible for benefits

About Childpeace Montessori School

Childpeace is a nonprofit Montessori school serving children from toddler through middle school. Our community is collaborative, mission-driven, and committed to creating a supportive environment for both students and staff.