Kitchen Staff

Winter4Kids; Vernon (NJ); On-site; USD 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Winter4Kids is seeking a friendly Kitchen Prep & Service Team Member to help create a positive experience for participants by preparing and serving nutritious meals in a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. The role supports all kitchen operations with a focus on food safety and outstanding service.

Ideal candidates are eager to learn, able to stand for extended periods, and collaborate with a team to maintain high standards during meals and events.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Prepare ingredients and meals according to recipes and portion standards.
• Assist with food preparation including washing, cutting, and processing produce.
• Replenish salad bars and serving stations during meal service.
• Serve meals accurately while maintaining portion control.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen and serving area.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely (ovens, grills, flat tops, slicers).
• Wash dishes, utensils, cookware, and kitchen equipment as assigned.
• Receive, organize, and store food and supplies.
• Provide friendly, professional service to participants, guests, volunteers, and team members.
• Assist with opening, closing, and cleaning procedures.
• Support events and other Food & Beverage operations as assigned.

Skills

Food prep basics

Kitchen safety

Teamwork

Communication

Punctuality

Attention to cleanliness

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