Temporary Food Service/Kitchen Worker, Cornell Dining - Multiple Positions Available

Cornell University; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 19,320 - 27,517; Part time

Job summary

Cornell University is seeking a Temporary Food Service/Kitchen Worker to join its renowned dining program in Ithaca, NY. This part-time role emphasizes exceptional customer service, teamwork, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for food and hospitality, and while previous experience is a plus, on-the-job training will be provided. Flexible scheduling is available, with shifts potentially including evenings and weekends.

Qualifications

• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Basic English communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and present food items for a diverse customer population.
• Provide exceptional customer service to guests.
• Maintain food quality standards and safety practices.

Skills

Customer service

Teamwork

Adaptability

Attention to detail

Job description

Overview

Get Your Foot in the Door and Start Your Career with Cornell Dining! Cornell Dining is a nationally recognized Top 10 Dining Program that prides itself on providing safe, high-quality, and culturally diverse cuisine to the Cornell community. We are looking for customer-focused, energetic, and motivated individuals who are eager to learn and have a passion for food and hospitality. Join one of the nation's premier collegiate dining programs and gain valuable hands‑on experience while working in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented environment.

Hourly Rate: $17.00 per hour

Schedule: Variable based on availability, business needs, and work performance; shifts may include evenings and weekends.

All positions are part‑time casual (19 hours per week or less), non‑benefits eligible. Flexible scheduling is available. Full‑time opportunities can be found at dining.cornell.edu/jobs.

In This Role

• Prepare and present food items for a diverse customer population.
• Provide exceptional customer service to guests and members of the Cornell community.
• Operate point‑of‑sale systems and assist customers with transactions.
• Maintain food quality standards, food safety practices, and health code requirements.
• Wash, organize, stock, and replenish equipment, supplies, and food service items.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas.
• Work collaboratively with team members to support daily dining operations.

We Value Your Ability To

• Deliver excellent customer service in a friendly and professional manner.
• Work effectively as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.
• Adapt to changing priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
• Follow established procedures, food safety standards, and operational guidelines.
• Demonstrate reliability, flexibility, and a willingness to learn.

Required Qualifications

• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Basic reading, writing, and verbal English communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team while managing multiple priorities.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced customer service environment.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks including lifting (30+ pounds), reaching, bending, twisting, pushing, squatting, and grasping as needed.

Previous food service or customer service experience is helpful, but not required. Training is provided.

No relocation assistance is provided for this position. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Students are not eligible to apply to this position. For student employment opportunities, please visit: https://studentemployment.cornell.edu/jobs/find-a-student-job

Job Title

Temporary Food Service/Kitchen Worker

Pay Range

Refer to Posting Language

EEO Statement

Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world‑class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “... any person ... any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.