Dishwasher

Rice University is a prestigious private research university located in Houston, Texas, renowned for its rigorous academics and tight-knit community. Spanning a lush 300-acre, tree-lined campus, Rice offers a unique environment that blends outstanding educational opportunities with a supportive residential college system. This system enhances student life by fostering strong intellectual, emotional, and cultural connections through various social events, intramural sports, student plays, lecture series, diverse courses, and active student government. Known for an exceptional 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, Rice is ranked among the top 20 universities nationally by U.S. News & World Report, reflecting its commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and student development. Its dedication to cultivating diverse and close-knit college communities has earned Rice high marks for quality of life and value among private universities.

Rice University is also recognized as a great workplace, where faculty, staff, and students share core values symbolized by the acronym RICE: Responsibility, Integrity, Community, and Excellence. These guiding principles shape interactions across campus, fostering a respectful and inclusive culture that extends to visitors and the broader community.

The Dishwasher/Steward position at Rice University is a vital role within the university’s dining services. This position supports the cleanliness, sanitation, and seamless operation of kitchen and dining facilities across campus. The primary responsibility of the Dishwasher/Steward is to operate commercial dishwashing equipment efficiently and to maintain all kitchenware, service equipment, and work areas in compliance with university and health department standards. Adhering to strict sanitation protocols and food safety guidelines is essential, as is monitoring chemical levels, water temperature, and machinery to ensure optimum performance and hygiene standards.

As part of the kitchen operations team, this role involves routine cleaning and maintenance of dishwashing machines, organizing the dish room and storage areas, managing inventory for cleaning supplies, and supporting kitchen staff by ensuring clean utensils and appliances are readily available. The job demands attention to detail, a commitment to safety, and physical stamina to stand for extended periods and lift items as needed. The role is classified as an Essential On-Campus Position, requiring presence on site during normal operations and emergency situations to ensure uninterrupted function of dining services.

The ideal candidate for this position is reliable, punctual, and able to contribute effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Previous experience in food service or custodial roles, familiarity with commercial kitchen operations, and knowledge of HACCP and food safety standards are preferred but not mandatory. The Dishwasher/Steward must demonstrate strong organizational skills, an awareness of sanitation and safety standards, and the ability to operate or quickly learn to operate dishwashing systems safely.

This hourly position offers a competitive pay range of $18.00 to $21.57, contingent upon qualifications and experience, and is eligible for overtime under FLSA regulations. Candidates must have a High School Diploma or equivalent, with related culinary experience or equivalent education considered advantageous. Certification as a Food Handler in Houston or equivalent (such as ServSafe) is required. The dishwasher/steward must be physically capable of handling the demands of a commercial kitchen, including manual dexterity, ability to stand and move for long hours, and a capacity to lift up to 50 pounds. This role also requires sensory awareness such as detecting scents and discerning flavors to aid in maintaining quality standards. Work environment hazards include exposure to chemicals, hot surfaces, equipment, and wet floors, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment.

Joining Rice University means becoming part of a diverse, supportive academic and operational community where you contribute to the health, cleanliness, and efficiency of its vibrant campus dining experience. The Dishwasher/Steward plays a crucial part in ensuring that students, faculty, and visitors enjoy a safe, clean, and welcoming dining environment, supporting the institution’s mission and values at every level.