Departmental Assistant (Line Server - Fall 2026)

UMass Amherst Auxiliary Enterprises is a vital sector within the university, dedicated to supporting the campus community through various service operations including dining, retail, and other auxiliary services. As part of the Administration and Finance executive area, the Auxiliary Enterprises operate several dining facilities and cafes across campus, providing nutritious and convenient food options to students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The Campus Center and Student Union are central to fostering a vibrant campus environment, and they rely on efficient and friendly food service staff to ensure quality experiences in their dining locations.

The position of Departmental Assistant (Line Server) at UMass Amherst is a part-time, on-site role within the Auxiliary Enterprises, specifically supporting food service operations at locations such as Berkshire Dining Hall, Hampshire Dining Hall, Franklin Dining Hall, Worcester Dining Hall, Blue Wall Cafe, and other campus cafes. This role is ideal for individuals interested in a temporary, yet rewarding position during the 2026-2027 academic year, offering a flexible schedule that may include nights, weekends, and holidays, which aligns with the dynamic nature of campus dining services.

The Departmental Assistant plays a crucial role in the food service chain by assisting in the preparation and serving of simple hot and cold foods and beverages, adhering to standardized recipes and procedures. This includes moving food items from storage, preparing coffee, loading and transporting food carts, serving diners, and supporting cooks and full-time staff in food preparation tasks. The role also includes operating a cash register to handle cash sales, washing dishes, utensils, pots, and pans, as well as maintaining cleanliness and sanitation standards throughout the food preparation, serving, and dining areas.

This position demands a working knowledge of food service methods, materials, tools, equipment, and sanitation procedures, along with the ability to perform physical tasks typical in a food service environment such as prolonged standing, carrying loads, and operating cleaning chemicals or food service equipment safely. Candidates should be able to follow both oral and written instructions clearly and consistently to help maintain operational efficiency and food safety standards.

Offering an hourly wage ranging from $15.00 to $19.00, this temporary position spans from August 30, 2026, through May 29, 2027. Successful applicants will join the bargaining unit after working a minimum of 10 hours per week for at least six weeks within a calendar year, offering a pathway to additional employee rights and benefits through collective bargaining. UMass Amherst’s strong commitment to providing supportive work environments and fair employment practices ensures that line servers are valued team members in the broader Auxiliary Enterprises' mission of enhancing campus life.