Kitchen Aide

Our Mission

Hearth is a non-profit organization dedicated to the elimination of homelessness among the elderly. This mission is accomplished through a unique blend of prevention, placement, and housing programs all designed to help elders find and succeed in homes of their own. To this end, all housing operated by Hearth provides a creative array of supportive services that assist residents to age with dignity, regardless of their special medical, mental health, or social needs. Hearth believes these goals are best accomplished through respect for elders and staff, with the desire to see both achieve their highest degree of potential.

Primary Function:

To support the preparation, service, and cleanup of nutritious meals for residents of Ruggles Assisted Living. Responsible for working in accordance with the written service plan in a professional, respectful, and confidential manner, while communicating relevant tenant information to the team.

Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour

Pay Transparency:
This is the fixed hourly rate for this position if hired to work in Massachusetts. The compensation is not part of a range and is set based on the requirements of the role.

Schedule/ Available Shifts:

Full-time and part-time openings are available with the following shifts:

• Monday: 7am–3pm, 3pm–7pm
• Tuesday: 11am–7pm
• Friday: 7am–3pm
• Saturday: 3pm–7pm
• Sunday: 3pm–7pm

Responsible For: Working in accordance with the written service plan in a professional, respectful, and confidential manner, while communicating relevant resident information to the team.

Major Functions:

1. Assists in the preparation, serving, and cleanup of meals.

2. Maintains sanitary kitchen conditions in compliance with food safety standards.

3. Observes, records, and reports relevant information about residents to the care team.

Duties and Responsibilities:

A. Kitchen Duties

· Prepares, portions, and serves meals and beverages under supervision.

· Cleans and sanitizes work areas, kitchen equipment, utensils, and food service areas before and after meals.

· Operates the dishwasher and ensures proper dishwashing and drying procedures.

· Assists in maintaining an organized and hazard-free kitchen environment following all safety and infection control protocols.

B. Observing / Recording / Reporting

· Immediately reports emergency situations or safety hazards to the supervisor.

· Shares relevant changes in tenant behavior or requests from tenants or their families regarding service plans.

· Documents and communicates concerns about equipment, sanitation, or food handling.

C. Developing and Maintaining Therapeutic Relationships

· Interacts with tenants respectfully, compassionately, and without judgment.

· Maintains clear, empathetic, and professional communication with tenants and team members.

Education, Experience, and Licensure

· Education: High school diploma or GED preferred

· Experience: Prior food service or healthcare dining experience preferred; training will be provided to meet EOEA and food safety standards.

Certifications & Licensure:

· ServSafe® Food Handler and Allergen Awareness certifications preferred (must be obtained within 30 days of hire; valid for 3 years).

· If assigned supervisory duties, ServSafe® Food Protection Manager certification required (valid for 5 years).

· OSHA-required training on Bloodborne Pathogens and Hazard Communication must be completed annually as applicable.

Ongoing Education & In-Service Requirements

· Completion of EOEA-mandated 7-hour orientation prior to providing services

· Participation in at least 10 hours of annual in-service training, including 2 hours focused on Alzheimer’s or dementia care (per 651 CMR 12.07).

· Annual refreshers on OSHA topics such as Bloodborne Pathogens and Hazard Communication

· Recertification of ServSafe® Food Handler (every 3 years) and Food Protection Manager (every 5 years, if applicable).

· Attendance at internal Hearth trainings or professional development as required.

Required Skills, Abilities and Knowledge

· Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and infection control standards

· Effective communication and teamwork skills

· Ability to work compassionately with diverse older adult populations

· Strong attention to detail and time management in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

· Reliability, flexibility, and professionalism in all interactions.

· Ability to respond promptly and exercise good judgement in emergencies.

Physical Requirements

· Ability to lift up to 10–15 lbs occasionally.

· Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

· Ability to bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions safely.

· Able to read small print (e.g., food labels, thermometers) with or without corrective lenses.

· Able to hear and respond to instructions and alarms in a moderately noisy environment.

· Able to communicate clearly and respectfully with others.

Health Requirements

To promote a healthy and safe workplace, Hearth strongly encourages all employees to stay up to date with COVID-19 and Influenza (flu) vaccinations. Individuals who choose not to be vaccinated may complete a declination form or request an exemption. Must follow Hearth’s mitigation guidelines in accordance with organizational policy, subject to current state requirements.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Hearth is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds who are passionate about advancing our mission to end elder homelessness.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement

Hearth is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in the application and employment process. If you require an accommodation to apply for a position or to perform the essential functions of a role, please contact the Human Resources Department at mtemesghen@hearth-home.org or 617-986-3412.

Employees in this role must be able to meet the essential requirements of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, including standing, walking, bending, and assisting residents as needed.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17