Food Service Associate - Part Time

The Food Service Support Specialist plays an important role in supporting the overall health, comfort, and recovery of patients by providing consistent, nutritious meals in a respectful and welcoming environment. This position supports daily meal preparation, service, and kitchen operations while contributing to a positive patient experience rooted in dignity, safety, and teamwork.  This position is Part Time, up to 28 hours per week.  

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with meal preparation, portioning, and service for patients
• Ensure meals are served on time and in accordance with dietary guidelines and program expectations
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen and dining area
• Follow food safety, sanitation, and infection control standards
• Stock food, supplies, and cost-effective snacks as needed
• Follows all requests for special diets in order to assure good patient health
• Support inventory management and notify leadership of supply needs
• Engage respectfully with patients and contribute to a calm, supportive dining experience
• Collaborate with program staff to support daily operations
• Assist with special projects such as nutrition education or life-skills activities as staffing allows

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent 
• Previous food service or kitchen experience preferred (healthcare or residential setting a plus)
• Knowledge of basic food safety and sanitation practices
• Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced, patient-centered environment
• Strong communication skills and a respectful, compassionate approach
• Ability to maintain professionalism and boundaries in an inpatient setting
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time. 
• Ability to pull, push, lift and/or carry objects up to 50 pounds. 
• Manual dexterity to safely and properly cut/slice/chop food products and handle extremely hot cookware/bakeware.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who is hungry, humble, and human—motivated to learn, open to feedback, and grounded in compassion. The ideal candidate understands that meals are more than food; they are an important part of comfort, routine, and healing.

Why Join Meridian

• Meaningful work that directly supports resident recovery and well-being
• A collaborative, mission-driven team environment
• Opportunity to contribute to a program focused on dignity, safety, and patient experience
• Room for growth and involvement in expanded programming as the program evolves