Food & Services Associate (Part-Time, Science Center Coffee Bar)

Swarthmore College, situated in the picturesque suburbs of Philadelphia, is one of the most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the United States. Renowned for its rigorous academic programs combined with a strong sense of social responsibility, Swarthmore offers an inclusive and supportive learning environment. The college is dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, striving to cultivate a welcoming community that embraces individuals from all backgrounds. This commitment extends to its employment practices, promoting nondiscrimination and encouraging candidates who align with its values of inclusion and excellence. The expansive 425-acre campus doubles as a designated arboretum, featuring beautiful gardens, wooded hills, rolling lawns, a creek, and hiking trails within the Crum Woods, providing a serene and inspiring setting for both study and work.

Swarthmore College Dining Services operates as an integral part of the campus, managed directly by the college to deliver exceptional dining experiences. The dining services team is dedicated to serving fresh, nutritious, and delicious food in welcoming and comfortable venues. With a focus on quality and hospitality, the dining program is a vital component of the college’s community-building efforts. The program emphasizes using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to provide diverse menus that accommodate the varied tastes and dietary needs of the campus community. Collaboration with students to meet their specific needs ensures an inclusive dining experience for all.

This role within Swarthmore College Dining Services is pivotal in supporting the daily operations of food preparation, stocking, customer service, and maintaining cleanliness. Team members are expected to exemplify the college’s mission through their commitment to providing excellent service and maintaining a hygienic and efficient dining environment. The position pays $20.00 per hour, reflecting the college's good faith and reasonable estimate at the time of the job posting. The employment is detailed with expectations of working flexible hours, including days, evenings, nights, and weekends, as dining services operate seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. to midnight. The role demands effective communication, teamwork, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Employees in this role will be responsible for interacting professionally and respectfully with customers, coworkers, and supervisors, ensuring that meals are served promptly and that every guest experiences exceptional service. Duties include preparing beverages and sandwiches, selling retail products, and ensuring that all food products meet recipe and preparation standards. Inventory management and equipment maintenance are also a key part of the responsibilities to maintain a smooth operation. The team members are expected to contribute to a clean and sanitized work environment, assisting in the upkeep of all dining areas and equipment. The college requires a Pennsylvania criminal background check prior to employment, underscoring its commitment to safety and integrity.

Swarthmore College prides itself on being an equal opportunity employer that values individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. It actively encourages applications from women, minorities, and those committed to fostering inclusion and equality. Joining the dining services team offers a chance to contribute to a dynamic and supportive community while enhancing one’s professional skills in an environment committed to academic excellence and social responsibility.