Culinary Operations Assistant

Carey Services Inc•Marion, IN

5h•Onsite

About The Position

Carey Services is seeking a dependable and motivated Culinary Operations Assistant to support the daily operations of Carey Services’ foodservice business enterprises. This position works closely with the Foodservice Leadership Team (including Foodservice Business Manager and Kitchen Specialists) to support the efficient operation of Carey Services’ foodservice business enterprises. The Kitchen Assistant provides advanced support in meal preparation, station setup, and catering execution, while monitoring sanitation and food safety compliance. Responsibilities include assisting with inventory checks, organizing storage areas, and mentoring Kitchen Tech staff to ensure smooth workflow and adherence to health code standards. Work is performed in Carey Services community-based businesses with the goal of teaching individuals with and without disabilities the skills necessary to work in restaurants or other food establishment settings.

Requirements

Must be a minimum of 18 years of age
Desire to work in the foodservice area
Familiarity with food preparation, storage procedures, and basic dishwashing practices.
Ability to lead in the absence of a Kitchen Specialist
A passion to mentor and walk alongside other staff as well as help training them.
Ability to walk, stand, or sit for extended periods (up to 3 hours)
Ability to lift and carry 30 pounds or more
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hairnets, gloves, face masks, and gowns.
Ability to follow food safety practices, universal precautions, and agency safety standards.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working in a kitchen or foodservice environment is a preferred
ServSafe Food Handler Certificate (or the ability to obtain certificate)
Ability to support meal preparation tasks, including washing, peeling, and portioning ingredients.
Basic understanding of using and maintaining common kitchen equipment.
Commitment to maintaining cleanliness and sanitation standards in kitchen, dishwashing, and dining areas.
Strong teamwork skills and willingness to take direction from supervisors and coworkers.
Ability to stay flexible, organized, and proactive in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
Openness to training new kitchen team members when needed.
Enthusiasm for working in a mission-driven setting that supports individuals with disabilities.

Responsibilities

Overseeing daily kitchen operations by setting up stations, supporting events, maintaining workflow efficiency, and stepping into leadership roles when needed.
Maintaining compliance and safety by monitoring sanitation, enforcing food safety regulations, and ensuring proper storage and handling practices.
Managing inventory through regular checks, communicating shortages, organizing storage areas, and assisting with ordering and receiving deliveries.
Training, mentoring, and supporting staff—including individuals with disabilities—through hands-on vocational training, onboarding, cross-training, and fostering an inclusive, empowering work environment.
Contributing to organizational initiatives by completing special projects, participating in committees, and promoting strong safety and housekeeping standards across the agency.