Production Kitchen Assistant Cook

About American Spoon

In 1982, we began making preserves in our Northern Michigan storefront kitchen. After all these years, our skilled crew still prepares fruit by hand and cooks with care in small-batch copper kettles. We work directly with a dedicated group of Michigan farmers and foragers who grow and gather the unique varieties of fruit we love, prized over generations for unparalleled taste and character. Our small, family-owned company exists, to find, capture, and preserve flavors you simply won’t find anywhere else. 

 Job Title: Production Kitchen Cook Assistant
Company: American Spoon
Location: Preservation Kitchen, 1668 Clarion Ave, Petoskey, Michigan

Start Date: Immediate
Schedule: Monday–Thursday, 7:30 am–5:00 pm (hours may vary seasonally)

About the Role:
American Spoon has immediate openings in our Production Kitchen for Cook Assistants. This is a physically demanding position that requires energy, strength, and stamina. You’ll be part of the team that creates our award-winning jams, jellies, and preserves—helping with everything from fruit prep to cleanup.

Important Note:
This is a physically intensive role. Candidates must be comfortable:

• Standing on their feet for up to 10 hours a day (with regular breaks)
• Lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs repeatedly
• Working in a hot, noisy environment where ear protection is sometimes required

If you enjoy active work and take pride in doing your part in a team setting, this could be a great fit.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist lead cooks in all stages of production
• Handle fruit prep, dishwashing, and other essential kitchen tasks
• Maintain cleanliness and safety in the work area

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to repeatedly lift 50 lbs throughout the day
• Endurance to stay on your feet and stay focused in a fast-paced setting
• Basic math skills
• Attention to detail and a strong work ethic
• Previous kitchen or food production experience is helpful but not required—we’ll train the right candidate
• Reliable transportation
• Positive attitude and team-first mindset

About American Spoon:
Founded in 1982 in Petoskey, Michigan, American Spoon is a nationally recognized maker of handcrafted preserves and condiments. We’re passionate about local fruit, traditional methods, and building a great team of people who care about making exceptional food.

Join Our Team:
We’re looking for motivated individuals who enjoy physical work, thrive in a fast-moving environment, and want to be part of something delicious. If that sounds like you, we encourage you to apply—we’re happy to train the right person.