BVI Lab Assistant, Culinary Program Part Time

At WSU Tech, we are dedicated to promoting quality higher education and leadership in workforce training that supports economic development for a global economy. Our experienced faculty and staff are committed to helping students achieve their goals by providing hands-on experience, state-of-the-art facilities, and individualized support and guidance. We operate in a values-based culture and strive towards our behaviors in everything we do.

• Compensation: $18.20 /hr
• Worksite Location: NICHE

Overview / Job Summary:

The Culinary lab assistant will support blind and/or low vision students enrolled in the culinary program. The primary role of the Lab Assistant is to provide non-intrusive guidance and support within the culinary lab environment to ensure the student’s safety, enhance accessibility, and help facilitate a rich, hands-on learning experience. This role is not to complete tasks for the students, but to enable them to participate fully and independently in all aspects of their education.

Your day-to-day responsibilities will vary, but are not limited to:

• Offer verbal and tactile guidance to assist with spatial orientation in the kitchen and proper handling of tools and equipment.
• Support safe navigation around the lab environment, including identifying and describing equipment, surfaces, and obstacles.
• Describe visual cues and demonstrations in real time, including instructor-led techniques and presentations.
• Provide gentle, respectful reminders or alerts regarding time-sensitive tasks (e.g., stove timing, boiling, oven readiness).
• Assist in organizing the students’ workspace to ensure consistency and accessibility.
• Assist students with the learning management system and assistive devices such as screen readers.
• Collaborate with instructors to ensure instructional materials and methods are accessible.
• Encourage independent learning and skill development, refraining from doing the work for the student.
• Maintain open, respectful communication with the students to ensure support aligns with their preferences and needs.

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree, preferred

Experience & Skills Needed:

• Previous experience working with the blind and/or visually impaired
• Previous experience as a paraprofessional or teaching assistant, preferred
• Interest or experience in the culinary industry
• Basic knowledge of kitchen safety and culinary lab environment, preferred
• Excellent communication and observation skills
• Patience, attentiveness, and the ability to follow instructions precisely
• Respect for the dignity and independence of individuals with disabilities
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and a professional demeanor in the educational setting

https://wsutech.edu/whyhere/

WSU Tech is committed to inclusive and equitable practices to create an environment and culture where students and employees thrive. We acknowledge that through valuing diverse identities, experiences, talents, and gifts, we excel by fulfilling our mission to create a talent pipeline, establish workforce equity, and improve economic prosperity for our community. WSU Tech is an Equal Opportunity Employer.