The Steward is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in all kitchens and dining areas, ensuring that dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment are properly cleaned and sanitized for the kitchen and restaurant staff. You will also assist in organizing storage areas, handling waste disposal, and supporting the kitchen team with various tasks to ensure smooth and efficient kitchen operations. The Steward plays a vital role in maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety throughout the kitchen environment.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Dishwashing & Cleaning:
- Wash dishes, pots, pans, utensils, and glassware used in the kitchen and dining areas, ensuring all items are cleaned to the highest standard.
- Operate dishwashing equipment and ensure proper sanitization of all kitchenware.
- Clean and sanitize all kitchen equipment, work areas, and surfaces, including floors, walls, and countertops, following health and safety guidelines.
- Ensure that the dishwashing area remains organized and that clean items are stored appropriately.
- Assist in maintaining cleanliness and orderliness of kitchen storage areas, including dry storage, walk-ins, and refrigerators.
- Organize and label cleaning supplies, chemicals, and other equipment to ensure easy access and proper use.
- Help stock and organize supplies in designated storage areas and kitchens to ensure efficiency during peak times.
- Assist in setting up and breaking down kitchen areas during meal shifts, ensuring all areas are ready for service.
- Collect and dispose of trash, food scraps, and waste in accordance with hotel policies and local health regulations.
- Ensure that trash and recycling are separated and disposed of in the correct containers.
- Keep the dumpster and waste storage areas clean and organized to prevent contamination and odors.
- Support to Kitchen Staff:
- Assist the kitchen staff with various tasks as needed, such as prepping ingredients, refilling supplies, and helping with mise en place.
- Ensure that all kitchen staff have clean, sanitized tools and equipment to perform their duties efficiently.
- Assist in the proper storage of food items, ensuring they are labeled and stored in the correct conditions to maintain freshness and safety.
- Health & Safety Compliance:
- Follow all food safety and sanitation procedures, ensuring that kitchen and dining areas comply with health regulations and standards.
- Clean and sanitize all kitchen equipment and surfaces according to established guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
- Assist in monitoring the cleanliness and maintenance of the kitchen's waste disposal areas, making sure they remain odor-free and hygienic.
- Report any kitchen safety issues or equipment malfunctions to the kitchen supervisor or management team.
- Work closely with kitchen staff, chefs, and other stewards to ensure smooth operations and timely delivery of clean equipment and utensils.
- Communicate effectively with team members to ensure that cleaning duties are being carried out efficiently and without interruption to kitchen operations.
- Provide assistance during busy times or special events, ensuring that the kitchen runs smoothly.
Education and/or Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Previous experience in a kitchen or restaurant setting is a plus, but not required.
- Knowledge of basic kitchen safety, food safety, and sanitation procedures is preferred.
Skills/Specialized Knowledge
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain cleanliness and order in the kitchen and dining areas.
- Ability to operate dishwashing machines, sinks, and other kitchen cleaning equipment.
- Knowledge of safe chemical handling and sanitation protocols.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to follow instructions and work cooperatively with others.
Physical Demands
- Ability to stand for long periods and perform repetitive motions, including bending, lifting, and reaching.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and carry heavy items such as boxes or kitchen equipment.
- Ability to work in a hot and humid environment, especially near cooking equipment.
- Ability to work in wet conditions, with frequent exposure to water and cleaning chemicals.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by kitchen schedules.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
Proper Hospitality is an equal‑opportunity employer. We provide employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other federally or state‑protected category.
We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in accordance with local Fair Chance Hiring Ordinances.