Gather Cafe Associate

Who We Are

Gather‘s mission is to offer innovative programs that build food security in welcoming and dignified ways. Founded in 1816, Gather is one of the oldest social service agencies in the country. For over two centuries, Gather has been a regional leader in addressing food insecurity. In addition to the Pantry Market in Portsmouth, NH, Gather addresses the immediate hunger need by distributing food to other Seacoast communities through our Mobile Markets, Meals 4 Kids program, and our Fresh Food Bus. Food that would otherwise be wasted is turned into delicious, to-go meals through our Cooking 4 Community program in the kitchens at Gather’s headquarters and at UNH. Gather Café serves food insecure students and the larger community at Great Bay Community College.

In an effort to address the underlying issues that cause food insecurity, Gather offers cooking, gardening, and nutrition education programs to those wanting to learn how to eat healthy food on a budget. Our social service partners join us in our space to offer wrap-around supports, helping our members address needs beyond food. Finally, Gather’s Fresh Start Culinary Workforce Training Program provides a pathway to employment for those experiencing barriers.

What We Seek

The Gather Café Associate is an integral member of the Gather Café team, a partnership between Gather and Great Bay Community College. The Café provides affordable, nutritious breakfast and lunch options that support students on their academic journey, while its catering operation helps generate revenue to support the Café's mission. The Associate works closely with the Café Manager to prepare and serve high-quality food, provide exceptional customer service, support catering operations, and ensure the Café operates efficiently and consistently.

Classification: This is a non-exempt, hourly position with the expectation of working 28 hours a week.

Reports To: Gather Café Manager

Key Responsibilities:

Food Preparation & Service

· Work with the Café Manager to support Café and catering menu updates, including seasonal changes and new offerings.

· Maintain a strong understanding of Café and catering menus, including ingredients, to accurately answer customer questions.

· Prepare and serve a variety of grab-and-go items and hot meals and operate the grill station while maintaining a high degree of quality, consistency, and efficiency.

· Prepare and package catering orders.

· Receive and fulfill customer orders and process transactions using the Café’s Toast point-of-sale system. Develop proficiency with the back end of the POS system to support pricing and menu updates as needed.

Customer Service & Engagement

· Deliver exceptional service through friendly and professional customer interaction.

· Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting environment for guests.

· Ensure grab‑and‑go coolers, condiment stations, and coffee areas are clean, stocked, and visually appealing.

· Work with volunteers to ensure their experience is meaningful and productive, providing direction as needed to ensure food safety and quality requirements are upheld.

· Collaborate with team members to foster a positive and supportive work culture.

· Participate in Gather’s monthly all-staff meetings and engage with staff across the organization to strengthen collaboration and advance Gather’s mission.

Operations

· Assist with inventory management, ordering, receiving, stocking, and proper rotation of food and supplies.

· Work with the Café Manager to follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and assist with updates as needed to support efficiency and consistency.

· Understand required reporting processes and complete reports when providing Cafe Manager coverage.

· Assist the Café Manager with the design and implementation of an annual customer feedback survey to improve menu offerings and service.

· Work with the marketing and communications team to provide content and updates that promote the Café on Gather’s social media.

· Follow all ServSafe and food safety guidelines to maintain a clean and safe work environment.

· Ensure opening and closing checklists are followed and perform daily operational tasks.

· Provide vacation and sick leave coverage for the Café Manager when required.

Key Qualifications & Competencies

· Minimum of 2 years of cooking experience in the hospitality industry.

· Front-of‑house (FOH) and back‑of‑house (BOH) experience preferred.

· ServSafe Food Handler or Manager certification.

· Strong customer service skills with a focus on building relationships and community.

· Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively as part of a team.

· Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

· Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.

Work Environment

This role is based on-site at the Gather Café at Great Bay Community College. The Café operates in a fast‑paced setting, requiring regular standing, lifting, and movement in a kitchen and service area.

Pay: $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching

Work Location: In person

Benefits:

Salary : $25