SEIU Cook Helper

The University of Rochester is a prestigious higher education institution located in Rochester, New York. Renowned for its commitment to Meliora — meaning Ever Better — the university fosters an inclusive and welcoming community centered on values such as equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. As a major player in academic research, education, and service to society, the University of Rochester creates an environment where students, faculty, and staff can thrive and contribute to advancing knowledge and improving the world around them. The university’s campus boasts a diverse array of departments, facilities, and dining services designed to support its large student and employee population. Among these important operations are its dining services, which provide nourishment and hospitality to students, faculty, and visitors alike.

The role available at the University of Rochester is a part-time Food Service Assistant position within the Douglass Dining/Auxiliary Operations department. This role is classified under the UR SEIU 025 H pay range with compensation between $19.13 and $25.95 per hour, depending on experience and collective bargaining agreement terms. Scheduled to work 30 hours weekly during day shifts, this position is integral to supporting the preparation and serving of food to the university community. The Food Service Assistant is responsible for a variety of essential kitchen tasks, including assisting cooks with food preparation, performing grill and broiler activities, and ensuring food quality and safety. This position demands a hands-on approach, involving washing, peeling, trimming, and cutting a variety of ingredients, measuring and mixing according to pre-set recipes, and preparing food orders for service.

In addition to food preparation, the assistant ensures proper storage and handling of foods and cleaning and maintenance of equipment and work areas according to set hygiene and safety standards. No direct supervision is required for this role, but it is expected to operate collaboratively within a team setting in a fast-paced environment. The use of standard kitchen machines and equipment such as ovens, grills, fryers, steam kettles, mixers, and slicers is a key part of the duties. The position supports the university’s mission by ensuring nutritional and appealing meals are delivered efficiently and safely, contributing to the overall well-being of the campus community. This opportunity is ideal for individuals with prior commercial food service experience who are adept at following detailed instructions and maintaining high standards of sanitation in a busy dining venue.

The University of Rochester emphasizes its commitment to an inclusive workplace free from discrimination of any kind, supporting diversity in all facets of employment, which makes this an excellent opportunity for candidates from various backgrounds to contribute meaningfully to a respected academic institution while gaining valuable experience in food service operations.