Culinary Assistant (Grill Cook)

Swarthmore College is a prestigious and highly selective liberal arts college situated in the serene suburbs of Philadelphia. Established with a mission that blends rigorous academic standards and an unwavering commitment to social responsibility, it stands as one of the nation’s top-tier institutions of higher learning. The College draws a diverse student body from across the United States and the globe, fostering a rich, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating environment. The campus is expansive, spanning 425 acres and designated as an arboretum, characterized by lush gardens, sprawling lawns, a scenic creek, and wooded hills that include hiking trails through Crum Woods. This unique setting provides students and staff alike with a tranquil and inspiring environment for both study and recreation.

Swarthmore College Dining Services are directly owned and operated by the institution, underscoring the College’s dedication to quality and community through food. They provide the campus community with exceptional dining experiences across multiple welcoming venues. The team prioritizes cuisine that is not only fresh and nutritious but also reflective of the diverse tastes and dietary preferences of the campus population. Reducing environmental impact is a key focus, with extensive use of locally grown and produced ingredients to emphasize sustainability and support local agriculture. The Culinary Assistant role embodies this commitment by playing a vital part in delivering this fresh and satisfying food experience every day.

The Culinary Assistant position is a dynamic, multifaceted role based within Dining Services. It requires working across various kitchen stations, such as grill cook, grill assistant, salad prep, deli, and prep cook, adapting to the department’s daily needs. Recognized as a fast-paced and energetic environment, the job demands candidates who are passionate about food and eager to contribute positively to the students' dining experience. Candidates should demonstrate outstanding customer service skills, the ability to multitask and prioritize in a busy kitchen, and the capability to work independently or as part of a team. Responsibilities include preparing grilled items, deli meats, salads, and catering foods accurately and safely, adhering to recipes, cooking temperatures, and food safety standards.

This is a 9-month position, generally from August through May, offering an opportunity to be an integral part of a respected and supportive community. The College pays $21.53 per hour for this post, reflecting a competitive wage in line with the responsibilities involved. Working conditions can be demanding, featuring high volume and fast-paced production, including evening and weekend shifts, and exposure to the elements and varying temperatures. However, the environment is also collaborative and respectful, inviting team members to grow, learn, and take pride in their work.

Swarthmore College Dining Services not only focus on food preparation but also contribute critically to the welcoming atmosphere and social fabric of the College. Employees are encouraged to uphold high standards of cleanliness, professionalism, and respect. The position especially emphasizes food safety, with adherence to ServSafe and HACCP guidelines to safeguard health and quality. Furthermore, the role supports inventory control, food labeling, preparation accuracy, and the ability to handle multiple concurrent tasks efficiently.

Joining Swarthmore College means becoming part of a renowned liberal arts community with a global outlook and a culture that champions inclusive excellence. Employees benefit from a stunning campus environment paired with a collaborative work atmosphere. Beyond the hourly wage, the College offers a robust benefits package including retirement contributions, tuition programs, paid time off, and holiday schedules. The College values diversity and inclusion, and actively seeks candidates who represent a broad range of perspectives and experiences, fostering an environment of equity and respect.