Congregate Kitchen Coordinator

Meals on Wheels Orange County is the largest nonprofit provider of nutrition and supportive services dedicated to at-risk older adults in Central and North Orange County. This organization focuses on combating hunger and loneliness among the elderly through a comprehensive approach that includes providing nutritious meals, conducting friendly visits, performing safety checks, and supporting families with day services. Meals on Wheels Orange County delivers nearly 2 million meals every year to over 20,000 at-risk older adults, ensuring that seniors in the community receive the care and nutrition they need to live healthier and more connected lives. As a nonprofit entity, Meals on Wheels Orange County is driven by its mission to enhance the quality of life for older adults by nourishing both their bodies and spirits in a supportive and compassionate environment.

Located in Newport Beach, California, this part-time Kitchen Assistant opportunity offers a meaningful employment experience with work hours scheduled Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM, totaling 25 hours per week. The hourly wage ranges from $17.00 to $19.50, with the exact rate being determined based on geographic location, skills, education, and experience. The Kitchen Assistant plays a vital role in the day-to-day operations of the meal preparation and service process, ensuring quality and customer satisfaction for the recipients of Meals on Wheels Orange County.

The role involves a variety of responsibilities central to the successful delivery of nutritious meals. The Kitchen Assistant is entrusted with managing kitchen, food, and serving supplies, which includes ordering, receiving, and ensuring proper storage of all items necessary for meal preparation. Maintaining a clean and sanitary kitchen environment is a critical component of this position, along with taking and recording food temperatures to ensure safety and health standards are met. Personal hygiene and food handling techniques must be upheld to the highest standards to align with health regulations and organizational policies.

This position also requires participation in mandatory training sessions and meetings directed by the Site Manager or administrative personnel, ensuring the Kitchen Assistant stays informed on procedures, safety protocols, and operational updates. The Kitchen Assistant checks food deliveries for accuracy and completes meal preparation in accordance with the prescribed menu. At the end of each program day, the Kitchen Assistant ensures that the kitchen is thoroughly cleaned, and that all food and serving supplies are securely locked away. Safety in the kitchen and adherence to operating procedures are paramount, as the role involves supervising food service volunteers and support staff, guaranteeing that all team members maintain safety and efficiency.

Meals on Wheels Orange County values its employees' contributions and promotes a supportive work environment. The role requires a capacity to work independently with minimal supervision while performing effectively under pressure. Employees must meet certain physical job requirements, including the ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds, maintain stationary positions, and operate equipment and tools. Strong communication skills and the ability to discern quality and safety aspects of food products are also essential.

Meals on Wheels Orange County is an equal-opportunity employer that encourages applicants of all backgrounds and experiences to join their team. The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace where every employee can thrive while contributing to a cause that makes a profound impact in the lives of older adults.