What are the responsibilities and job description for the Kitchen Assistant - Part Time position at Voluntary Action Center of Northern Illinois?
Join a team where your work truly makes a difference. At Voluntary Action Center (VAC), we have proudly served our community for over 50 years by delivering more than just meals. We provide connection, dignity, and care to seniors and individuals with disabilities who rely on us every day.
We are currently seeking a part-time Kitchen Assistant to support our Nutrition Program and help prepare meals that reach clients across DeKalb County. This position offers up to 25 hours per week, working Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with occasional holiday shifts eligible for premium pay.
If you enjoy hands-on work, thrive in a team environment, and want to know your efforts truly matter then this is the role for you.
What You’ll Do
- Prepare and package meals for delivery through our Meals on Wheels program
- Support daily kitchen operations in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
- Operate commercial kitchen equipment (ovens, dishwashers, slicers, steam tables, etc.)
- Maintain cleanliness, organization, and food safety standards
- Assist with dishwashing, storage, and inventory organization
- Step in to support batch cooking as needed
- Collaborate with team members to ensure timely, high-quality service
Why Join VAC?
- Purpose-driven work
- Generous paid time off
- Paid holidays & bereavement leave
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Opportunities for growth and development
- A supportive, mission-focused team culture
What We’re Looking For
- High school diploma or GED
- Previous kitchen or food service experience
- Experience with batch or large-scale food preparation preferred
- Illinois Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days)
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
- Reliable, team-oriented, and positive attitude
- Passion for serving your community
Physical Abilities
This role requires the ability to work on your feet for most of the shift in a busy kitchen environment that may be warm and physically active. The position involves frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting items typically between 10–20 pounds, and occasionally up to 50 pounds, as well as repetitive use of hands and arms.
Voluntary Action Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran or military status or any other status protected by law.