Part-Time Kitchen Assistant

Denver, CO, USA|

Job Overview

Employment Type

Part-time

Hourly

Compensation

Hourly

Exact $24.00

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

Sick leave benefit

Vacation benefit

Pension Plan

Job Description

The Salvation Army is a globally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to serving communities and individuals in need through a variety of programs and services. Established with a mission to provide compassionate support and empowerment, The Salvation Army operates shelters, food programs, and community outreach initiatives designed to assist vulnerable populations. With a commitment to integrity, respect, and professional service, this organization plays a critical role in addressing social challenges including homelessness, food insecurity, and crisis intervention. Known for its extensive volunteer network and community partnerships, The Salvation Army continues to expand its impact while upholding strong ethical standards and inclusivity.

The part-time Kitchen Assistant position at The Salvation Army is focused on supporting the kitchen operations in a shelter or community-based environment. This role is part-time, non-exempt, offering a work schedule of two days per week, ten hours each day, with a pay rate of $24 per hour. Reporting directly to the Kitchen and Building Supervisor, the Kitchen Assistant is essential to ensuring a clean, safe, and efficient kitchen environment that meets health and safety standards. The position involves hands-on roles such as meal preparation, dishwashing, maintaining sanitation, managing inventory, and assisting volunteers and staff with kitchen activities. The Kitchen Assistant also supports program operations by helping with accurate recordkeeping, handling in-kind donations, and assisting with events. This role requires a respectful and professional approach to working with clients, volunteers, and colleagues, emphasizing dignity, confidentiality, and responsiveness in a fast-paced, crisis-oriented setting. The Kitchen Assistant will be trained on proper food handling and safety, must maintain a valid Food Handler's Certificate, and will participate in ongoing operations to maintain the quality and effectiveness of meal service and kitchen support functions. The opportunity provides standard benefits for part-time employees, including sick leave, vacation accrual, and pension eligibility after one year of service. This position is ideal for candidates with an interest in community service and the culinary field, those who enjoy working collaboratively, and individuals committed to supporting a mission-driven organization focused on helping those in need.

Job Requirements

Must obtain and maintain a valid Food Handler's Certificate and follow all food safety guidelines
Must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid in-state driver’s license
Must pass all required background checks and submit to a biennial background check
Ability to maneuver, remain stationary, grasp, push, pull, reach overhead, lift 25 pounds, operate telephone and computer, and understand written information
Must have food handling experience
High school diploma or equivalent required

Job Qualifications

High school diploma or GED
Restaurant or food service experience preferred
Experience working with volunteers or in a community-based or shelter environment preferred
Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
Effective verbal and written communication skills
Basic computer proficiency such as Microsoft Word and Outlook email
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
Ability to organize, multitask, and manage time effectively
Basic inventory management and recordkeeping skills
Demonstrated history of providing professional services and customer service in a professional setting
Desire to serve others by building on their strengths
Comfort working in crisis-oriented environments and responding appropriately
Ability to work effectively and respectfully with diverse staff, volunteers, guests, and community members
Act with honesty and integrity
Supportive of The Salvation Army's mission
Able to reflect and model high organizational standards

Job Duties

Wash dishes, silverware, pots, and pans as needed
Maintain dishwasher in a clean and sanitized condition
Ensure all kitchen equipment is clean, sanitary, and in proper working order
Maintain food preparation areas in compliance with health and safety standards
Keep kitchen, pantry, and storage areas neat and organized
Sweep and mop floors at the end of each shift and ensure facility is secured
Provide general maintenance support for vehicles and kitchen equipment
Prepare meals for shelter and events
Assist with meal planning, food preparation, and serving
Assist with preparation of sack meals as needed
Help load meals for distribution
Ensure safe food handling procedures are followed at all times
Receive food deliveries and stock items appropriately
Assist with inventory and organization of pantry supplies
Store food items properly according to instructions
Safely and efficiently perform pickups and deliveries as required
Assist in internal processing and distribution of goods
Assist in supervising and coordinating volunteers and residents in meal preparation and service
Assist in training kitchen volunteers, including hygiene standards
Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to maintain kitchen operations
Participate in required staff meetings
Assist with in-kind donations, including logging, issuing tax receipts, and submitting copies to administration
Maintain accurate records, documentation, and receipts
Track contacts, visits, issues, and resources provided
Assist with special events and other duties as needed