Kitchen Associate/Dishwasher

Lifescape Community Services Inc.; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

Lifescape Community Services Inc. in Rockford, IL is seeking a Kitchen Associate to support daily meal production by washing dishes and maintaining a clean kitchen. You will follow food safety guidelines and assist with sanitation while working with staff and volunteers to ensure smooth service.

Responsibilities include operating the dish machine, reporting maintenance needs, and helping with closing duties in a fast-paced, community-focused kitchen environment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred/required.
• Previous food service experience required; experience 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.

Responsibilities

• Wash and sanitize dishes, pans, utensils, and other kitchen equipment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary dish room and kitchen.
• Operate and maintain the dish machine, including checking and recording sanitizer levels.
• Report equipment, plumbing, or other kitchen issues to the supervisor.
• Dispose of leftovers and waste according to established procedures.
• Mop and clean kitchen and dish room floors and other assigned areas.
• Follow safe operating procedures for all kitchen equipment.
• Assist other kitchen stations as needed, including closing duties.

Skills

Reading & Math

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Communication

Safety compliance

Lift 50 lbs

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 washing dishes, pans, and utensils used in daily meal production. This position also assists with kitchen cleaning, organization, sanitation, and other kitchen duties as assigned. Employees must follow all food safety, sanitation, hygiene, and organizational policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Wash and sanitize dishes, pans, utensils, and other kitchen equipment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary dish room and kitchen.
• Operate and maintain the dish machine, including checking and recording sanitizer levels.
• Report equipment, plumbing, or other kitchen issues to the supervisor.
• Dispose of leftovers and waste according to established procedures.
• Order dish room supplies as needed through the appropriate supervisor.
• Mop and clean kitchen and dish room floors and other assigned areas.
• Clean additional areas such as packing, dry storage, and freezer areas as needed.
• Follow safe operating procedures for all kitchen equipment.
• Assist other kitchen stations as needed, including closing duties.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, pest prevention, and organizational policies.
• Complete required documentation, timecards, training, and HR paperwork accurately and on time.
• Maintain professional conduct, communication, and appearance.
• Work cooperatively with employees, volunteers, clients, and community partners.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work around kitchen equipment, hot and cold temperatures, water, cleaning products, and varying environmental conditions.
• May be required to work evenings or weekends as needed.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for 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.