Kitchen Prep & Service

National Winter Activity Center; Highland Lakes (NJ); On-site; USD 21,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

National Winter Activity Center in Highland Lakes, NJ is seeking a Kitchen Prep & Service Team Member to prepare ingredients and meals, ensure safety, and provide friendly service in a clean, organized kitchen.

You will assist with washing, cutting, and processing produce, replenish serving stations, and help with opening/closing duties while adhering to health regulations.

Qualifications

• Basic understanding of food preparation and kitchen safety practices.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to cleanliness, organization, and food quality.

Responsibilities

• Prepare ingredients and meals according to established recipes and portion standards.
• Assist with food preparation, including washing, cutting, and processing fruits and vegetables.
• Replenish salad bars, fruit stations, soups, chili, and other serving stations throughout meal service.
• Serve meals accurately while maintaining portion control.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen, food preparation, and serving area.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.
• Safely operate kitchen equipment, including ovens, grills, flat tops, meat slicers, and other food preparation equipment.
• Wash dishes, utensils, cookware, and kitchen equipment as assigned.
• Receive, organize, and properly store food and supplies.
• Provide friendly, professional service to participants, guests, volunteers, and fellow team members.
• Assist with opening, closing, and cleaning procedures.
• Support special events and other Food & Beverage operations as assigned.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the mission of Winter4Kids.

Skills

Food safety basics

Teamwork

Attention to cleanliness

Ability to follow instructions

Dependable and punctual

Education

Food Handler Certification (preferred)

Job description

Position Purpose

The Kitchen Prep & Service Team Member plays an important role in creating a positive experience for Winter4Kids participants by preparing and serving nutritious meals in a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. This position supports all aspects of kitchen operations while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, cleanliness, and customer service.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Previous food service or kitchen experience is preferred but not required.
• Food Handler Certification is a plus (or willingness to obtain if required).

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Basic understanding of food preparation and kitchen safety practices.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to cleanliness, organization, and food quality.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Positive attitude with a commitment to providing outstanding service.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Dependable, punctual, and able to work independently when needed.

Essential Responsibilities

• Prepare ingredients and meals according to established recipes and portion standards.
• Assist with food preparation, including washing, cutting, and processing fruits and vegetables.
• Replenish salad bars, fruit stations, soups, chili, and other serving stations throughout meal service.
• Serve meals accurately while maintaining portion control.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen, food preparation, and serving area.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.
• Safely operate kitchen equipment, including ovens, grills, flat tops, meat slicers, and other food preparation equipment.
• Wash dishes, utensils, cookware, and kitchen equipment as assigned.
• Receive, organize, and properly store food and supplies.
• Provide friendly, professional service to participants, guests, volunteers, and fellow team members.
• Assist with opening, closing, and cleaning procedures.
• Support special events and other Food & Beverage operations as assigned.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the mission of Winter4Kids.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Frequently bend, reach, stoop, and perform repetitive motions.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 30 pounds regularly.
• Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures, including hot kitchen conditions and walk-in coolers/freezers.
• Ability to safely use commercial kitchen equipment.

Interviews will start after 11/1/2026