General Help (10:00 - 2:00)

Oak Ridge Middle School is part of a dedicated educational institution committed to providing quality learning experiences and supportive environments for students. As a facility serving a diverse student body, the school emphasizes not only academic development but also the health and well-being of its community. To support the daily nutritional needs of students and staff, Oak Ridge Middle School operates a comprehensive food service department, staffed by professionals who ensure that nutritious and appealing meals are delivered efficiently and safely. This department plays a critical role in fostering good nutritional habits among students, contributing to their overall health, energy, and ability to focus throughout the school day. The school maintains rigorous standards for food service operations, promoting a safe and welcoming environment for all those who participate in the meal programs.

The position of General Kitchen Help at Oak Ridge Middle School is a part-time role within the Nutrition Services department. This role is essential in supporting the food service team by assisting in the preparation and serving of quality meals to students and adults. The working hours for this position are from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, allowing for a focused contribution during peak meal service times. Reporting directly to the Food Service Production Manager and Kitchen Manager, the General Kitchen Help ensures smooth operation of daily meal preparations and service lines.

General Kitchen Help is responsible for organizing site work including setting up and tearing down serving lines and bars according to the policies and procedures established by the Food Service Department. This role involves understanding and applying good nutrition principles in food preparation and service, assisting with food serving, and managing dishroom duties such as washing trays and silverware. A strong emphasis is placed on maintaining food and supply cost control through proper handling and storage techniques, including inventory rotation. Communication skills and a collaborative spirit are vital, as the role requires interaction with co-workers, students, parents, and faculty to maintain positive public relations.

The position demands adherence to high professional standards, including quality and quantity of work, knowledge of job duties, problem solving, interpersonal skills, dependability, appearance, organization, safety, communication, adaptability, and a professional approach towards all tasks and stakeholders. Physical demands for this job include standing for extended periods, working in variable temperatures including hot kitchen environments and cold storage areas, occasional lifting and carrying of substantial weights, and handling commercial kitchen cleaning equipment. The physical and work environment expectations ensure that the individual can perform and sustain the physical tasks required in a busy school kitchen setting.

The ideal candidate will bring a high school diploma or GED and have experience in school food service operations, although prior experience is preferred but not mandatory. They should be willing to attend required food safety training courses, such as the Short Food Course I offered by the Department of Education, which will be paid for by the district. Familiarity with basic school food service and sanitation is desirable. The role requires good communication skills, the ability to organize and prioritize tasks, work independently or as part of a team, and show courtesy and responsiveness when taking direction. Candidates must be mindful of district policies and committed to following safety guidelines to maintain a secure and hygienic food service environment.

Working at Oak Ridge Middle School’s Nutrition Services means engaging in a role that directly impacts the nutritional health of young learners and the school community. The role offers an opportunity to contribute to the overall mission of the school by supporting the food service operations with professionalism, care, and efficiency. The position does not have supervisory responsibilities but does require a dependable and proactive team member who can thrive in a dynamic and sometimes fast-paced environment. Employees must be prepared to work with various kitchen equipment and tools, including ovens, stoves, microwaves, mixers, dishwashers, and cleaning tools while adhering to clothing and PPE standards such as slip-resistant shoes and hairnets to ensure safety and hygiene. Evaluation processes are structured and regular to encourage ongoing development and quality performance in the role, conducted by the Production Manager. This position is a vital part of the school’s commitment to delivering quality nutrition services to its students and staff, emphasizing safety, quality, and community engagement.