Dishwasher/Kitchen Assistant

Position Summary

Ramapo for Children is seeking a dependable and team-oriented Kitchen Assistant to support the daily operations of our dining hall on our Rhinebeck campus. This role is responsible for food preparation, dishwashing, serving meals, maintaining cleanliness and sanitation standards, and ensuring the kitchen and dining areas operate efficiently. The ideal candidate enjoys working in a fast-paced environment, takes pride in maintaining a clean workspace, and contributes positively to a collaborative team culture.

Essential Responsibilities

Dishwashing & Kitchen Support

• Wash and sanitize dishes, utensils, cookware, serving equipment, and kitchen tools.
• Maintain an adequate supply of clean dishware, utensils, glassware, pots, pans, and serving equipment throughout meal service.
• Operate dishwashing equipment safely and effectively.

Food Preparation & Service

• Assist with basic food preparation under the direction of the Executive Chef and culinary team.
• Support meal service, including buffet setup, replenishment, and breakdown.
• Help ensure food is presented and served in a safe, timely, and professional manner.

Cleaning & Sanitation

• Clean and sanitize kitchen workstations, equipment, food preparation areas, and dining spaces.
• Sweep, mop, and maintain floors throughout the day.
• Remove trash and recycling and maintain organized storage areas.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety procedures.

Team Support

• Work collaboratively with kitchen staff and other team members to support daily operations.
• Assist with additional kitchen and dining hall duties as assigned.
• Contribute to a positive, respectful, and team-oriented work environment.

Qualifications

Required

• Ability to work on your feet for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Strong attention to cleanliness, organization, and food safety practices.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred

• Previous experience in food service, dishwashing, hospitality, or commercial kitchen environments.
• Knowledge of basic food safety and sanitation practices.
• Experience working in a camp, school, institutional, or nonprofit food service setting.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Frequently stand, walk, bend, reach, lift, and carry materials throughout the workday.
• Regular exposure to kitchen equipment, cleaning products, hot surfaces, and varying temperatures.
• Ability to perform duties in a busy commercial kitchen environment.
• Must be able to work occasional evenings, weekends, or special events as needed.

Pay: $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Rhinebeck, NY 12572 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17