Departmental Assistant (Line Server - Fall 2026)

The Departmental Assistant (Line Server) position is offered within the Administration and Finance Executive Area, specifically part of the Auxiliary Enterprises at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. This role operates within the Campus Center/Student Union and various Auxiliary Enterprises dining locations such as Berkshire Dining Hall, Hampshire Dining Hall, Franklin Dining Hall, Worcester Dining Hall, Blue Wall Cafe, and other campus cafes. These facilities serve a wide and diverse population including students, faculty, staff, and visitors, providing quality food services in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Auxiliary Enterprises is dedicated to supporting the university's mission by offering exemplary dining experiences while emphasizing cleanliness, customer service, and operational efficiency. Each dining location under Auxiliary Enterprises is committed to adhering to food safety standards and promoting a positive dining atmosphere, which reinforces the university's holistic approach to campus life.

This part-time, onsite position as a Departmental Assistant (Line Server) is crucial to ensuring the smooth operation of food service areas across campus during the 2026-2027 academic year. The role involves preparing simple hot and cold foods using standard recipes and food service equipment, serving food directly to diners, and maintaining a clean and sanitary environment throughout the dining experience. Along with food preparation duties, the assistant actively participates in washing dishes, pots, and pans, and operates cash registers for food sales transactions in line with departmental policies.

Physical stamina is required as the position involves prolonged periods of standing and carrying items, which contributes to the overall food service operation's effectiveness. The role demands adherence to safety protocols, especially when operating food service equipment and handling cleaning chemicals, to maintain a safe workplace for all team members and customers alike.

The Departmental Assistant will contribute to multiple facets of Auxiliary Enterprises' food service operations, including moving food from storage to serving areas, making coffee, loading food carts, and assisting full-time cooks and staff. Additionally, individuals in this role support the upkeep of production areas, serving stations, and dining rooms by properly cleaning and sanitizing these spaces using established methods.

Employment in this position is subject to a temporary schedule during the academic year from August 30, 2026, to May 29, 2027, with variable hours that may include nights, weekends, and holidays based on departmental needs. Hourly wages range from $15.00 to $19.00, reflecting the candidate's experience and qualifications. After working at least 10 hours per week for six weeks in a calendar year, employees become part of the bargaining unit, which contributes to employee representation and benefits.

In this role, strong customer service skills and the ability to follow simple oral and written instructions are essential. Candidates should demonstrate a working knowledge of food service methods, sanitation procedures, and physical capability to perform routine food service tasks. This opportunity is ideal for individuals seeking to engage in campus life while gaining experience in food service operations and team collaboration within a respected university auxiliary enterprise.