Assistant Cook (Part-Time) - Mitzvah Kitchen

Job Title: Assistant Cook (Part-Time)

Program: Mitzvah Kitchen – Friendship Campus

Reports To: Program and Events Manager

Position Type: Part-Time (15–20 hours/week)

About the Organization

The Friendship Campus, led by Chabad of Kendall & Pinecrest, is a vibrant, inclusive community bringing together three mission-driven organizations: Chabad of Kendall & Pinecrest, Friendship Circle of Miami, and Mitzvah Kitchen. Through programs rooted in kindness, connection, and service, we create meaningful experiences for individuals of all abilities.

Mitzvah Kitchen is a volunteer-driven initiative that brings people together through cooking, giving back, and building community through food and purpose.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dependable, positive, and team-oriented Assistant Cook to support the Head Chef in daily kitchen operations while also assisting with hands-on culinary programs for adults with special needs.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced kitchen environment and is passionate about creating meaningful, inclusive experiences through food and community engagement.

This is a unique opportunity to combine culinary work with meaningful community impact—helping create experiences that go far beyond the kitchen while being part of a supportive and purpose-driven team.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Support & Food Preparation

• Assist the Kitchen Lead with daily food preparation, cooking, and execution of programs and events.
• Prepare ingredients (washing, chopping, measuring, portioning) and support recipe execution.
• Maintain consistency, quality, and presentation of all food prepared.
• Assist with kitchen setup and breakdown for programs and events.
• Ensure proper storage, labeling, and rotation of ingredients.

Culinary Program Support

• Support and assist in leading hands-on cooking classes for adults with special needs (approximately 2 times per week).
• Help create a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging environment for all participants.
• Provide clear, patient guidance during cooking activities.
• Support participants of varying skill levels with encouragement and care.

Kitchen Operations & Cleanliness

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen at all times.
• Follow food safety and sanitation standards (ServSafe/HACCP practices).
• Wash dishes, sanitize surfaces, and ensure equipment is properly maintained.
• Assist with inventory, restocking, and minimizing food waste.

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with the Kitchen Lead and program staff to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Communicate effectively and contribute to a positive, supportive team environment.
• Remain flexible and willing to assist in various areas as needed.

Qualifications

• Previous kitchen or food preparation experience preferred (restaurant, catering, or similar).
• Passion for cooking, hospitality, and community impact.
• Comfortable working in a hands-on, fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Strong communication skills with a positive, patient demeanor.
• Experience working with individuals with special needs is a plus (not required).
• Willingness to learn and take direction.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift approximately 30–50 lbs.
• Comfortable working in a kitchen environment (heat, equipment, etc.).

Schedule & Availability

• Part-time position (15–20 hours per week).
• Must be available Tuesdays and Thursdays, with additional hours as needed.
• Flexibility required based on programs and events.

Compensation & Work Environment

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience.
• Opportunity to work in a warm, collaborative, and mission-driven environment.

Additional Information

Please note that responsibilities listed above are not exhaustive and additional duties may be assigned as needed to support the organization’s mission and programs.