Job Options Inc logo

Mess Attendant FT/ PT

Job Overview

briefcase

Employment Type

Full-time
clock

Work Schedule

Standard Hours
diamond

Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Training and Development
Employee assistance program
Career growth opportunities

Job Description

Job Options Inc. is a reputable nonprofit organization operating within the framework of the AbilityOne Program, which is one of the largest providers of employment opportunities in the United States for people with significant disabilities. Known for its dedication to quality service and inclusive employment practices, Job Options Inc. is committed to providing meaningful work environments that empower employees through comprehensive training and supportive benefits. The organization operates in various sectors, including food service, offering its employees a chance to grow professionally within a mission-driven company that values diversity and customer service excellence. As an equal opportunity employer, Job Options Inc. ensures that all candidates have equal access to employment without discrimination. It also provides accommodations for applicants and employees who require special assistance or resources to perform their job effectively. This commitment makes it an ideal workplace for individuals looking for stability, skill development, and a supportive community that encourages personal and career growth.

The position of Mess Attendant at Job Options Inc. plays an indispensable role in the organization's food service operations, particularly in the Mess Hall dining facility. This role is integral to maintaining the daily flow of meal service by ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and efficiency. The Mess Attendant supports the overall dining experience by setting up food service areas, portioning and serving meals in line with specific guidelines, and replenishing food and beverage stations like salad bars and pastry cabinets. Key responsibilities also include the upkeep of dining utilities such as glassware, dishes, and silverware, as well as operating dishwashing machinery and maintaining cleanliness in all service and seating areas.

The job demands a wide range of manual tasks that require light to moderate physical activity, including lifting and carrying items weighing up to 40 pounds, often involving prolonged standing and walking. Essential to the role is adherence to infection control protocols, safety standards, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), which underscores Job Options Inc.'s commitment to employee well-being and regulatory compliance. The Mess Attendant also plays a pivotal role in waste management by ensuring proper disposal and recycling practices, a reflection of the organization’s environmental responsibility.

Furthermore, this role demands strong communication skills, as the attendant must interact effectively with customers and team members, delivering exceptional service and maintaining the Five-Star Service standard — welcoming guests warmly, focusing on personalized experiences, and ensuring every customer’s satisfaction with fast, friendly service. Beyond physical tasks, this role is about embodying a service-oriented attitude and contributing to a positive dining atmosphere.

Job Options Inc. supports its employees' career growth through ongoing training programs, mentorship, and performance evaluations. Those hired for this role will be expected to complete all mandatory training, including sanitation certifications like Serve Safe or equivalent Navy Food Handlers Certification and workplace compliance training such as sexual harassment prevention. This position is suitable for highly motivated individuals who are team-oriented, organized, and capable of working effectively in fast-paced environments. The combination of structured training, supportive management, and a collaborative culture makes the Mess Attendant role a solid entry point for individuals looking to enter or advance within the food service and hospitality industries.

Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED or equivalent
  • three to six months related experience or training or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • physical ability to lift, carry, and stand for extended periods
  • ability to perform tasks following safety and infection control protocols
  • completion of sanitation and sexual harassment training within specified timeframes
  • ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions
  • compliance with background check and facility access requirements
  • ability to work efficiently under fast-paced conditions
  • adherence to uniform standards

Job Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED or equivalent
  • prior experience in food services or hospitality preferred
  • ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
  • strong customer service skills
  • knowledge of food safety procedures
  • certification from an approved sanitation program such as Serve Safe or Navy Food Handlers Certification within 90 days
  • ability to perform basic math operations and read/write English proficiently
  • ability to communicate effectively with customers and team members

Job Duties

  • Set up food on serving lines, portion and serve food according to specifications
  • replenish cold bars, salad bars, pastry cabinets, condiments, juice and milk dispensers
  • replace glassware, dishes, and silverware, and refill condiment containers
  • clean dining tables and service areas by removing used items and returning them to service zones
  • operate electric dishwashing machines and wash items by hand as needed
  • maintain cleanliness and sanitation of equipment, utensils, work areas, and restrooms
  • empty trash containers and manage waste and recyclables per established standards
  • follow uniform and safety compliance requirements
  • maintain Five-Star Service standards including welcoming customers, focusing on personalized experience, delivering fast and friendly service, providing quality products, and thanking customers and inviting them back
  • perform additional duties as assigned based on operational needs

Job Criteria

Experience

Entry Level (1-2 years)


Job Location

Your Profile Is Visible To Hiring Managers Across OysterLink.

We'll match you with best jobs

Get job offers faster

Business woman
Business man
Search For More Opportunities:

How Candidates Get Hired Faster

Apply to 2–3 similar roles

Complete profile & get best matches

Check new opportunities daily

Woman chef
Man chef