Weekend Culinary Aide/Dishwasher

Description

The primary responsibility of the Culinary Aide/Dishwasher is to ensure the cleanliness and sanitation of all kitchenware, dishware, and food service items in accordance with food safety and infection control standards. This role is essential in maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient kitchen environment. Secondary duties include light food preparation, restocking, and assisting in the overall food service operation for residents, staff, and special events.

Note: All employees of Cascadia Healthcare must pass the appropriate state-specific background check before any contact with residents or patients.

Essential Functions:

• Washes dishes, utensils, cookware, and other kitchen items using manual and/or automatic dishwashing methods in compliance with infection control and food safety procedures.
   
• Monitors and records water and sanitizer temperatures during dishwashing; reports any discrepancies or equipment malfunctions to the supervisor promptly.
   
• Stores clean dishes and kitchen items in the proper location to prevent contamination and ensure readiness for the next meal service.
   
• Keeps the dishwashing station and surrounding areas clean and organized at all times.
   
• Uses proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and follows infection control protocols when handling dirty or contaminated items.
   
• Maintains cleanliness and sanitation standards for all equipment and dishwashing areas per regulatory and facility requirements.
   
• Assists with kitchen cleaning tasks, including wiping surfaces, mopping floors, emptying trash, and restocking cleaning supplies.
   
• Supports the kitchen team by preparing and pre-portioning beverages, snacks, or other food items as directed by the supervisor, when time allows.
   
• Labels and stores food and supplies properly when helping with stock rotation or delivery intake.
   
• Follows kitchen safety protocols and reports potential hazards or equipment issues.
   
• Maintains punctual and regular attendance for assigned shifts.
   

Other Functions:

• Performs additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor.
   
• Attends in-service education and applies instruction to duties.
   

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of proper dishwashing techniques, including sanitization standards.
   
• Familiarity with infection control and food safety principles.
   
• Ability to read, understand, and follow written and verbal instructions.
   
• Ability to communicate effectively and courteously with staff and residents.
   
• Ability to maintain focus in a fast-paced, repetitive-task environment.
   
• Physically able to lift, stand, and bend for extended periods.
   
• Ability to read, speak, and write effectively in English.

Requirements

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred. 

Licenses/Certification

• Food Handlers Permit, if required per state regulations.
• NOTE: Federal Child Labor Laws do not permit employees younger than 18 years of age to work with or repair, adjust, or clean power-driven machines such as meat slicers and commercial mixers. Therefore, individuals must be at least 18 years of age to be employed in this position.

Experience

• Six months experience in a long-term care environment preferred.
• Experience in food service is desired.