What are the responsibilities and job description for the Student Employment - Polar Bear Cupboard Student Assistant position at Ohio Northern University?
Posting Details
Posting Number:
Stu001784
Posting Type:
Student - Open to All Current ONU Students
Job Title:
Student Employment - Polar Bear Cupboard Student Assistant
Position Type:
Student
Department:
Student Affairs
Job Summary:
The Polar Bear Cupboard Student Assistant serves as a key contributor to the operation, development, and sustainability of Ohio Northern University’s on-campus food pantry. This student role is ideal for someone who is passionate about service and basic needs advocacy, works well independently, and is ready to take ownership of vital systems that impact student well-being. The Student Assistant will lead day-to-day efforts in inventory tracking, strategic outreach, and partnership development to help the cupboard grow and thrive.
Principal Responsibilities
- Maintain a confidential, respectful, and welcoming environment for students who visit the Polar Bear Cupboard.
- Operate independently during scheduled shifts, demonstrating initiative, reliability, and sound judgment.
- Develop and maintain a clear, efficient inventory tracking system using Google Sheets (or similar tools) to monitor food and supply levels.
- Ensure all items are organized, rotated, and displayed in accordance with food safety best practices.
- Take initiative in designing and proposing systems that improve the overall operation of the Cupboard.
- Lead efforts to support long-term financial sustainability, including but not limited to:
- Identifying and pursuing funding opportunities (e.g., Student Senate, external donations)
- Coordinating donation drives or on-campus fundraising events
- Tracking and managing donation records and related documentation
- Collaborate closely with key campus partners such as but not limited to:
- Student Senate – for advocacy, funding, and promotion
- Religious and Spiritual Life – for donation support and volunteer connections
- Office of Student Affairs – for supervision, vision alignment, and resource sharing
- Support Staff Council – for updates, staff engagement, and cross-campus collaboration
- Collect and maintain anonymized user data and pantry trends to support reporting and assessment.
- Help promote the cupboard through campus outreach and assist with events, tabling, and optional social media efforts.
- Other duties as assigned.
Required Skills:
- Self-Motiviation and Autonomy
- Organization and Attention to Detail
- Communication
- Confidentality and Discretion
- Technical Proficiency
- Collaboration
- Problem Solving
- Commitment to Service
Minimum Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled ONU student in good academic and conduct standing.
- Highly self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
- Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills.
- Comfortable using or learning Google Sheets and other collaborative digital tools.
- Discreet and professional in handling confidential information.
- Demonstrated interest in service, basic needs access, or social justice is a plus.
- Prior experience in food service, nonprofit work, or community organizing is helpful but not required.
EEO Statement
ONU is an equal employment opportunity employer. Accordingly, no person shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, transgender status, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic information or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all areas of employment including recruitment, hiring, training and development, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, discipline, separation and other terms, condition and privileges of employment.
Closing Date:
04/03/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes