Kitchen Assistant (Full-Time)
Organization Overview
Food + Farm Exploration Center (F+FEC), in partnership with Farming for the Future Foundation, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educating current and future generations about agricultural innovation and sustainability. Located in Plover, Wisconsin, F+FEC aims to deepen the understanding of modern agriculture, promote agricultural literacy, and foster connections between farmers and consumers. By creating a space for learning and engagement, F+FEC provides an opportunity for people to explore the world of agriculture and better understand the origins of their food.
Position Overview
The Kitchen Assistant supports the culinary team by ensuring kitchen operations run efficiently and smoothly. This role plays a vital part in maintaining cleanliness, organization, and timeliness in a fast-paced kitchen environment. The Kitchen Assistant works closely with chefs and kitchen staff to prep ingredients, clean equipment, manage supplies, and uphold food safety standards. An ideal candidate is reliable, detail-oriented, and comfortable working behind the scenes to help deliver high-quality meals and experiences.
Essential Responsibilities
Food Preparation Support:
Wash, peel, chop, and prepare ingredients as directed
Assist with basic cooking tasks under chef supervision
Assemble simple dishes, salads, and meal components
Support setup and plating/ packaging of food items
Cleaning & Hygiene:
Maintain cleanliness of kitchen surfaces, floors, and equipment
Wash dishes, pots, utensils and other kitchen tools
Empty bins regularly and adhere to hygiene and food safety standards
Follow all health department regulations and food safety standards, including cleaning protocols and temperature logs
Report any kitchen equipment issues to supervisors and assist with basic maintenance tasks
Stock & Supplies:
Receive, unpack, and properly store food deliveries
Monitor use-by dates and product rotation to minimize waste
Refill condiments, utensils, and other essential kitchen supplies
Team Support:
Assist chefs and kitchen staff during busy service hours
Keep personal and shared workspaces clean and organized
Run errands or deliver items between the kitchen and front-of-house as needed
Assist with front-of-house tasks as needed, such as setting up banquet tables, delivering food to event locations, or supporting event staff
Qualifications & Experience
ServSafe Food Handlers Certificate (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
Prior experience in a commercial kitchen or food service setting preferred
Basic understanding of food hygiene and safety practices
Ability to follow instructions and work efficiently under supervision
Demonstrates a strong work ethic and takes pride in maintaining high standards
Comfortable with physical tasks including standing for long periods, lifting, and working in a fast-paced environment
Strong teamwork skills with a positive, can-do attitude
Reliable, punctual, and organized
Willingness to learn and take on a variety of kitchen tasks
Must be available to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Physical Demands
Able to stand and sit for long periods of time.
Physical requirements include but are not limited to stooping, kneeling, bending, standing, squatting/crouching, crawling/kneeling, pushing/pulling, climbing (ladders), reaching above the shoulders, lifting of up to 75lbs.
Instructions to Applicants
Interested applicants, please assemble and email the following pieces of information, combined into one document, to hello@fftf.us by 5/2/2025:
A cover letter describing your qualifications, including your interest in Food + Farm Exploration Center.
A current resume
Three professional references with name and your relationship (references will not be contacted until a candidate has been notified).
Food + Farm Exploration Center Commitments
The hourly wage for this position starts at $18 per hour
Paid time off (PTO)
Eight paid holidays
Competitive medical and supplemental benefits are available after 60 days of employment
A 401K plan is offered following one year of employment
Complimentary employee membership and discounts
Offers of employment are contingent upon results of thorough background check, drug screen, and reference checks
All inquiries about and interactions with candidates are kept in strict confidence
Food + Farm Exploration Center provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity, results of genetic testing, or service in the military. Food + Farm Exploration Center is committed to creating and maintaining a workplace in which all employees have an opportunity to participate and contribute to the success of the organization and are valued for their skills, experience, and unique perspectives. This commitment is embodied in company policy and the way we do business at Food + Farm Exploration Center and is an important principle of sound business management.
