Kitchen Associate

Lifescape Community Services Inc.; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Lifescape Community Services Inc. seeks a Kitchen Associate to support daily kitchen operations in Rockford, IL. You will assist with meal prep, maintain sanitary conditions, and help with meal delivery as needed.

The role requires teamwork, reliability, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Prior food service experience and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds are important, as is a 21+ age requirement.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred/required.
• Previous food service experience required; experience working with older adults is preferred.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Ability to read, perform basic math, and communicate effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and reliability.
• Ability to follow instructions, maintain confidentiality, and exercise good judgment.
• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Kitchen Associate Supervisor with planning and preparing for daily and next-day production.
• Review production schedules and understand daily assignments before beginning work.
• Assist other positions as needed (dishwashing, packing, stockroom, and food preparation).
• Prepare and assemble menu items according to recipes, menus, and presentation standards.
• Communicate product and supply needs to the Stockroom Associate.
• Follow proper food handling, safety, sanitation, and equipment procedures.
• Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary work areas, equipment, storage areas, freezer, and packing areas.
• Follow procedures to prevent food contamination, pests, and workplace health hazards.
• Complete required documentation, timecards, training, and HR paperwork accurately and on time.
• Maintain effective communication with supervisors and provide updates regarding work activities, issues, and schedules.
• Demonstrate flexibility and assist with changing assignments or organizational needs.
• Participate in outreach and promotional activities as needed.
• Maintain professional conduct, appearance, and communication at all times.
• Support the organization's mission, values, and client-centered service standards.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Food service experience

Teamwork

Reading basic math

Communication

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Under the supervision of the Kitchen Associate Supervisor and/or Lead, the Kitchen Associate is responsible for supporting all kitchen positions and assisting with meal delivery as needed. The employee will prepare and assemble menu items, maintain a clean and sanitary work environment, and follow all food safety, sanitation, health, and organizational policies. The position requires flexibility, teamwork, good judgment, confidentiality, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist the Kitchen Associate Supervisor with planning and preparing for daily and next-day production.
• Review production schedules and understand daily assignments before beginning work.
• Monitor kitchen operations and assist other positions as needed, including dishwashing, packing, stockroom, and food preparation.
• Prepare and assemble menu items according to recipes, menus, and presentation standards.
• Communicate product and supply needs to the Stockroom Associate.
• Follow proper food handling, safety, sanitation, and equipment procedures.
• Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary work areas, equipment, storage areas, freezer, and packing areas.
• Follow procedures to prevent food contamination, pests, and workplace health hazards.
• Complete required documentation, timecards, training, and HR paperwork accurately and on time.
• Maintain effective communication with supervisors and provide updates regarding work activities, issues, and schedules.
• Demonstrate flexibility and assist with changing assignments or organizational needs.
• Participate in outreach and promotional activities as needed.
• Maintain professional conduct, appearance, and communication at all times.
• Support the organization's mission, values, and client-centered service standards.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift, move, and transport supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in indoor and outdoor/community environments and varying temperatures.
• Ability to travel to community locations, including senior centers and partner sites.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining accuracy.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma or GED preferred/required.
• Previous food service experience required; experience working with older adults is preferred.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Ability to read, perform basic math, and communicate effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and reliability.
• Ability to follow instructions, maintain confidentiality, and exercise good judgment.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing needs.
• Must be able to complete required background checks, drug screening, and fingerprinting.
• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.