Food Service & Dishwasher Associate

Woodbridge, NJ, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Part-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $19.91 - $28.12

Work Schedule

Flexible

Benefits

Paid Time Off

WiselyPay early wage access

Paid parental leave

KinderCare tuition discount

retirement plans

Co-worker discount

Meal deal

Referral Bonus

Pet insurance

Education Assistance

safety shoe reimbursement

Telehealth visits

Dental plans

vision plans

Medical Plans

Job Description

IKEA is a renowned multinational company specializing in home furnishings and interiors, originating from Sweden. With a global presence and a commitment to creating a better everyday life for the many people, IKEA combines affordability, quality, and sustainability in its wide range of products. Beyond selling furniture, IKEA embraces a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship, fostering a welcoming work environment that respects diversity and encourages personal and professional growth. The company's mission is deeply anchored in Swedish heritage, emphasizing community, well-being, and functionality in home life. At its Elizabeth, New Jersey location, IKEA offers a role in its Food & Restaurant department designed for part-time, permanent employment, focusing on operational excellence in food service.

The Food Service & Dishwasher Associate role at IKEA Elizabeth is pivotal in ensuring that customers enjoy a positive dining experience that aligns with IKEA’s unique food concept, which emphasizes honest, healthy, and delicious options. The position involves preparing and maintaining menu items while strictly adhering to food handling, health, and sustainability standards. Associates engage directly with customers, supporting informed purchases and processing sales transactions with accuracy and efficiency. This role demands attentiveness to food safety, sanitation guidelines, and cash handling protocols.

Moreover, the role includes maintenance of food equipment to guarantee smooth operation, including troubleshooting and preventive cleaning. The associate is also responsible for sustaining cleanliness and organization within dining and play areas, as well as managing the Swedish Food Market segment by overseeing merchandising, pricing, stock rotation, and sanitation of sampling areas. Accurate pricing communication across all food platforms, including digital channels and menu boards, is an integral part of the job.

Inventory management practices, such as First In, First Out (FIFO) stocking methods and adherence to expiration dates, are crucial to ensuring food quality and minimizing waste. The associate will participate in inventory procedures, goods receiving, and contribute to a culture that values diversity and inclusion among co-workers and customers alike.

This position offers flexible work hours (12-20 hours per week) across any day from Monday through Sunday between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM, catering to individuals seeking part-time employment that complements their lifestyle. The hourly pay range is competitive, from $19.91 to $28.12, based on relevant experience. Additionally, IKEA Elizabeth provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, including paid time off, parental leave, tuition discounts, and health and wellness programs.

Working at IKEA Food department allows employees to be part of a team serving over 660 million customers annually worldwide, carrying forward Swedish culinary heritage and sustainability principles. The company culture encourages laughter, teamwork, creativity, and continuous learning, making it an ideal workplace for those passionate about food and customer service. Join IKEA Elizabeth to experience growth, community, and a meaningful impact while shaping a better everyday life for both customers and yourself.

Job Requirements

Minimum high school diploma or equivalent
Minimum 2-3 years of related experience
Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and evenings
Food Handler Certification or Food Handler Card as required by local jurisdiction within 30 days of employment
Ability to follow food safety and sanitation protocols strictly
Strong customer service and communication skills
Physical ability to perform duties including standing for extended periods and lifting moderate weights

Job Qualifications

Minimum 2-3 years of related experience
Experience in a high-volume customer facing environment restaurant or food service industry preferred
Experience in a high-volume retail environment with knowledge of basic merchandising and selling concepts preferred
Food Handler Certification and or Food Handler Card as required by local jurisdiction required within 30 days of employment

Job Duties

Prepare and maintain IKEA Food menu items according to the IKEA Food concept adhering to food handling health and sustainability standards
Respond to customer inquiries to support informed purchases and process sales transactions accurately and efficiently adhering to cash handling policies
Maintain equipment operation through adherence to operating guidelines troubleshooting breakdowns and conducting preventive and cleaning maintenance
Maintain a clean supply of dishes silverware cooking utensils pots pans and trays that comply with Food Safety Standards
Ensure the cleanliness and organization of dining and play areas
Manage the Swedish Food Market by overseeing merchandising pricing stock rotation and the cleaning and sanitization of sampling equipment and areas
Ensure accurate and timely price communication across all food solutions including digital platforms menu boards and shelf tags
Maintain supply rotation and stocking in all IKEA Food solutions adhering to First In First Out FIFO expiration dates and sustainability standards
Implements IKEA Food policies and procedures for goods receiving and monthly inventory
Adhere to safe food handling workplace safety hygiene and sanitation regulations promptly reporting concerns to managers
Contribute to an environment where the IKEA culture is a strong and living reality that embraces the diversity of co-workers and customers