Local Kitchen Prep Specialist - Community-Focused

Craft Union Pub Company; Gardner (MA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

Growing Places Local Food Center in Gardner, MA, is seeking a Kitchen Prep Specialist to join a collaborative team transforming fresh, local produce into products for families, schools, hospitals and other communities. The role is up to 25 hours per week, based in Gardner, MA, contributing to a stronger local food system.

Responsibilities include washing and prepping produce, operating processing equipment, packaging finished goods, and maintaining GMPs and sanitation.

Qualifications

• Experience in fast-paced food environments.
• Experience with food processing equipment operation and maintenance.
• ServSafe Certification and Allergy Awareness Certification preferred; sponsorship available.
• Understanding of local food systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Processing and Preparation: Wash, trim, peel, cut, and portion produce using pre-determined recipes.
• Production Line Operations: Operate and monitor equipment including peelers, Robo Coupes, freeze-dehydrators, kettles, packaging machines.
• Packaging and Labeling: Package and label finished products to meet quality standards.
• Quality Control and Safety: Follow GMPs; monitor temperature, product quality, and equipment condition.
• Sanitation and Maintenance: Maintain a clean, sanitary work area and processing lines.
• Documentation: Record keeping per SOPs.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Fast-paced kitchen

Food processing

Detail-oriented

Team player

Independent worker

Education

ServSafe Certification

Allergy Awareness Certification

Tools

Commercial peelers

Robo Coupes

Freeze-dehydrators

Steam-jacketed kettles

Packaging machines

Job description

Growing Places Local Food Center in Gardner, MA, is seeking a Kitchen Prep Specialist to join a collaborative team transforming fresh, local produce into products for families, schools, hospitals and other communities. The role is up to 25 hours per week, based in Gardner, MA, contributing to a stronger local food system.

Responsibilities include washing and prepping produce, operating processing equipment, packaging finished goods, and maintaining GMPs and sanitation.