Kitchen Assistant at Bethesda House of Schenectady – Schenectady, New York

At Bethesda House, our goal is to end the cycle of poverty and homelessness - not just manage the symptoms.

Our teams work to address each individual on a holistic level so they feel heard, respected, and safe in our care. We offer hands-on help to address chronic homelessness, mental health, substance abuse, disability, and systematic poverty by offering innovative solutions and proactive services to the most vulnerable in Schenectady County.

The Kitchen Assistant supports the Community Food and Nutrition Coordinator in the daily operation of the Bethesda House Food Program. This position assists with maintaining kitchen and pantry supplies, managing inventory, receiving and transporting food donations, and supporting food preparation and meal service in accordance with established food safety and sanitation standards. Responsibilities include assisting with kitchen setup and cleanup, basic food preparation, inventory monitoring, and ensuring a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment. The Kitchen Assistant works collaboratively with staff and volunteers to help ensure efficient food program operations in compliance with all safety requirements.

Schedule: Part-time (25 hrs/week) Mon - Fri, 7:30 am - 12:30 pm
Pay Rate: $17/hour (Non-Exempt)

Qualifications

• High school diploma or G.E.D. required; prior experience in food service, kitchen operations, or inventory management preferred.
• Working knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and safe food handling practices; experience using commercial kitchen equipment a plus.
• Ability to support food program operations, including stocking, inventory tracking, receiving deliveries, and basic food preparation.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to follow procedures and work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work respectfully with staff, volunteers, and guests from diverse backgrounds.
• Willingness to take direction from the Community Food and Nutrition Coordinator and assist with a variety of kitchen and food program tasks as needed.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and safely move supplies and equipment.
• Valid NYS driver’s license for pickups and deliveries is required.
• Reliable transportation to/from work is required.
• Commitment to maintaining cleanliness, safety standards, professional boundaries, and confidentiality.
• Ability to work regular business hours.

This description does not contain a comprehensive list of duties, responsibilities or activities that are required of the employee. Additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned as needed and at any time with or without notice. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check including a DMV record search if driving is required for the position.

Bethesda House is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In all employment and hiring decisions, the Agency complies with applicable anti-discrimination laws. This policy applies to all employment practices, including hiring, advertising, recruitment, promotion, demotion/transfer, layoff/termination of employment, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training and development.