Prep Cook

Commonpoint Queens (Samuel Field YM and YWHA); United States; On-site; USD 21,000 - 29,000; Part time

Job summary

Commonpoint Queens is seeking a Dishwasher/Kitchen Prep to join the Kitchen team in Elmhurst, NY. This part-time role supports high-volume operations by washing and sanitizing dishes and assisting with basic food prep.

You will operate dishwashing equipment, maintain cleanliness, and help with ingredient prep while upholding food-safety standards and collaborating with cooks and staff during busy periods.

Qualifications

• Team player with ability to follow directions.
• Previous dishwashing or kitchen experience is preferred but training is provided.
• Ability to stand for long periods (up to 8+ hours) and lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Operate commercial dishwashing equipment to clean and sanitize all dishes, glassware, silverware, pots, pans, and kitchen utensils.
• Prep kitchen ingredients including washing, peeling, cutting, and portioning vegetables, fruits, meats, and other food items.
• Maintain proper sanitation standards following HACCP and ServSafe guidelines.
• Keep the dishwashing station and prep areas clean and organized throughout the shift.
• Assist with receiving and storing food deliveries and supplies.
• Perform end-of-shift deep cleaning of kitchen equipment, floors, walls, and storage areas.
• Collaborate with cooks, servers, and team members to ensure smooth kitchen operations.

Skills

Team player

Follows directions

Stand for long periods

Lift up to 50 lbs

Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE:

To continue advancing the impact we have across the communities we serve, Commonpoint is hiring a dishwasher/ food prep situated within the Kitchen. The Kitchen plays a vital role in feeding a variety of Commonpoint programs. The individual hired as Dishwasher/Kitchen Prep will operate commercial dish machines to clean and sanitize all kitchenware while assisting with food preparation tasks such as washing, peeling, cutting, and portioning ingredients. This essential role keeps the kitchen running smoothly by maintaining high standards of cleanliness, organization, and food safety in a fast-paced environment. This role reports directly to Culinary Operations Director. Across the agency, our part-time staff play a crucial role in driving our initiatives forward by supporting daily operations, program delivery, and organizational goals.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Agency Expectations: Support agency initiatives by carrying out assigned duties accurately and efficiently, while following established processes and contributing to basic data collection, reporting, or documentation as required. Use agency resources responsibly by following established procedures, safeguarding equipment and materials, and/or supporting cost-effective operations. Work effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and cross-department teams to ensure clear communication, timely task completion, and a positive, respectful work environment. Follow all safety protocols, policies, and procedures to maintain a safe work environment for staff, partners, and the public, and promptly report concerns or incidents. Role Expectations: Operate commercial dishwashing equipment to clean and sanitize all dishes, glassware, silverware, pots, pans, and kitchen utensils. Maintain proper sanitation standards by following all health and safety regulations (HACCP, ServSafe guidelines). Prep kitchen ingredients including washing, peeling, cutting, and portioning vegetables, fruits, meats, and other food items. Keep the dishwashing station, prep areas, and overall kitchen clean and organized throughout the shift. Empty and clean trash receptacles and take out garbage as needed. Assist with receiving and storing food deliveries and supplies. Perform end-of-shift deep cleaning of kitchen equipment, floors, walls, and storage areas. Work efficiently during high-volume periods while maintaining quality and speed. Follow all company policies regarding food safety, personal hygiene, and uniform standards. Collaborate with cooks, servers, and other team members to ensure smooth kitchen operations.

QUALIFICATIONS & KEY ATTRIBUTES:

• MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Team player. Follows directions.
• PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Previous dishwashing or kitchen experience is preferred but not required - we provide training. Ability to stand for long periods (up to 8+ hours) and lift up to 50 lbs. Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness. Reliable, punctual, and able to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays. Positive attitude and ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• KEY ATTRIBUTES: Consistently shows up prepared, follows through on assigned responsibilities, and meets expectations within established timelines. Responds effectively to changing priorities, learns new tasks quickly, and applies feedback to improve performance. Adheres to safety protocols, policies, and ethical standards, and represents the agency professionally in all interactions.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

Commonpoint offers competitive base salaries benchmarked against comparable nonprofit organizations in the New York metropolitan area. Salaries are determined based on internal and external equity, as well as each position’s scope, qualifications, and organizational impact. We believe in compensating staff fairly and consistently, ensuring that all salary decisions align with our mission-driven commitment to equity and transparency. To maintain fairness across the organization, salary offers are set according to established salary bands and are not subject to negotiation. New hires typically start near the beginning of the salary range to allow for growth based on performance, professional development, and tenure. Part-Time Rate: $18.00/hr

WORKING CONDITIONS & JOB DETAILS:

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment with frequent exposure to heat, steam, and humidity from dish machines and cooking equipment. Physically demanding role requiring prolonged standing (8+ hours), constant walking, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50 lbs. Wet and slippery floors with regular exposure to water, soap, and cleaning chemicals. Loud noise levels from equipment, staff, and busy service periods. Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts required, including split shifts and overtime during peak times. Hot kitchen temperatures that can exceed 90°F (32°C) near cooking and dishwashing areas. Team-oriented setting with close collaboration alongside cooks and other staff members. Strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and personal hygiene standards at all times.

JOB DETAILS:

Location: 77-17 Queens Boulevard Boulevard, Elmhurst, NY, 11373. Non Union Position. In Person. Commonpoint is an equal opportunity employer.

Commonpoint Queens is a community-centric nonprofit, serving diverse audiences through every chapter of life, across the five boroughs and beyond. We offer a rich range of services through our vast network of professionals, social workers, and volunteers, giving people the tools and resources to succeed. Originally founded in Queens in the early 1960s, we are guided by values of service and justice as we meet the evolving needs of 80,000 people through our wide-ranging dynamic programs at over 75 locations, including flagship sites in Little Neck, Forest Hills and Elmhurst. And with an inclusive, personalized approach, our exceptional services reflect, nurture, and embrace the breadth of lives we serve across New York and beyond. At every stage and every age, people can look to Commonpoint to find care during a crisis, access opportunities to grow, and deepen their sense of connection to those around them. From summer camps and job training to food pantries and private pool clubs, Commonpoint is by your side. We are proud of Commonpoint's clients, partners, and team members who lift each other up, building relationships for a lifetime. Because being a part of Commonpoint is investing in a community where everyone is invited and welcome.