Cafeteria Worker (Full Time 6:00 am - 2:00 pm)

Pennsylvania School For The Deaf•Philadelphia, PA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Cafeteria Worker supports daily school cafeteria operations by preparing and serving meals, maintaining a clean and safe environment, and complying with food safety regulations. The role helps provide students with a welcoming dining experience, assists them as needed, and models clear American Sign Language (ASL) communication to support language development. Non-service time is used productively for cleaning, sanitizing, restocking, preparing, and organizing cafeteria and kitchen spaces. This is a full-time, FLSA-non-exempt, 10-month union position.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
American Sign Language proficiency at Level 2 (ASLPI) or above.
Ability to work independently and remain productive with minimal supervision.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Willingness to consistently follow sanitation, hygiene, and food safety protocols.
Ability to lift, carry, and move food and kitchen items weighing up to 50 pounds and perform tasks involving extended standing, walking, and bending.
Valid Serve Safe Certification, either currently held or obtained within two years of hire.

Nice To Haves

Advanced ASL proficiency.
Previous customer service experience.
Familiarity with Federal Food Service regulations.

Responsibilities

Keep cafeteria tables, floors, food preparation areas, and kitchen equipment clean and sanitary in accordance with health and safety standards.
Set up, prepare, and store food according to hygiene and safety regulations; ensure food is labeled and stored properly.
Prepare and distribute breakfast, lunch, and after-school snacks, meeting nutritional and dietary requirements.
Serve meals efficiently, using proper portion sizes and following safety guidelines.
Organize storerooms, refrigerators, and freezers to maintain food freshness and safety.
Assist with end-of-year inventory and prepare reports for administration.
Use non-service periods for cleaning, sanitizing, restocking, and organizing cafeteria and kitchen areas.
Create a friendly and welcoming environment for students and assist with special needs as appropriate.
Model clear ASL communication while serving and interacting with students, using food items, cafeteria routines, visual menus, and labels to support language exposure and vocabulary comprehension.
Encourage positive, inclusive communication during mealtimes.
Model and exhibit PSD’s core values—Students 1st, Language, Respect, Communication, and Community Engagement—in professional interactions and responsibilities.
Perform additional assigned responsibilities supporting students’ nutrition and well-being.