Food Service Assistant Advanced

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a prestigious public research university known for its commitment to academic excellence, inclusive community, and innovative research. As an institution that values diversity, creativity, and the unique perspectives each individual brings, UW-Madison offers a dynamic work environment where employees can contribute to its mission of teaching, research, community outreach, and public engagement. The Division of University Housing, which includes Dining and Culinary Services, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the campus living experience by providing high-quality dining options to students, faculty, staff, and guests. This department is dedicated to delivering affordable, locally sourced, and nutritious meals through various marketplaces, convenience stores, coffeehouses, catering services, and a campus farm that supports sustainable food production.

This full-time, regular employment role is for a Food Service Assistant Advanced within the University Housing Dining and Culinary Services team. The position requires onsite, in-person work at designated campus locations, with shifts typically consisting of five 8-hour days per week and potential weekend rotations. Employees in this role receive a competitive starting wage of $17.75 per hour or higher based on qualifications, along with night and weekend shift differentials, a free meal for every shift worked, and a $1,000 referral bonus for successful hires. Benefits include generous vacation, holidays, sick leave, comprehensive insurance plans, savings accounts, and retirement options, supporting employee wellbeing and work-life balance.

The Food Service Assistant Advanced is a key player in the preparation and service of quality food items while maintaining the highest standards in food safety to ensure customer satisfaction and departmental goals are met. The role entails interacting with English-speaking customers, providing clear information about food products, allergens, and safety measures, and excelling in a fast-paced student residential dining environment. Employees must demonstrate exceptional customer service skills, act as role models for peer team members, and assist in the implementation of emergency plans as needed. Responsibilities include routine food preparation tasks such as portioning and chopping, serving customers, ensuring kitchen cleanliness, maintaining equipment, and supporting student worker training and guidance.

The Food Service Assistant Advanced works in a dynamic, community-engaged setting within one of six marketplace-style locations around the UW-Madison campus. These marketplaces offer an evolving daily menu with diverse made-to-order stations alongside convenience stores, coffeehouses, two franchise locations, catering services, and a central production and bakery operation. The department’s ties to the Eagle Heights Community Garden campus farm underscore its commitment to sustainability and healthy living by integrating home-grown produce into menus and grab-and-go items, including offerings on the Electric Eats Food Truck.

Candidates should have at least six months of professional food service experience, with a preference for one year and food safety certification such as ServSafe. The ideal candidate will hold a high school diploma or equivalent and possess strong English language skills for effective communication. The university fosters a respectful, inclusive culture encouraging applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, gender, disability status, veteran status, or other protected categories. Prospective employees must pass a background check and have legal authorization to work in the United States by the appointment date. This role offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the vibrant campus community by delivering outstanding dining experiences and supporting the university’s mission through dedicated service.