SUMMARY
The Utility - General Support position is responsible for the overall
sanitation, organization, and cleanliness of the kitchen, dish room, storerooms,
serving area, and equipment in accordance with Whitsons’ standards and all
applicable food safety and health regulations. This role supports the food
service team by maintaining a clean, safe, and organized work environment —
performing dishwashing, pot washing, floor care, trash removal, equipment
cleaning, and storage area upkeep throughout each shift. A strong work ethic,
physical stamina, and a commitment to food safety and cleanliness are
fundamental expectations of this role.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND DUTIES
Dishwashing, Pot Washing & Equipment Sanitation
* Organize the dish room to prevent recontamination of clean dishes and
utensils with soiled ones; scrape and rinse all items before washing;
pre-soak all serving utensils prior to rinsing and washing; fill the dish
machine with fresh water and detergent at least twice per day and keep soap
dispensing systems full at all times — never run the machine without soap;
clean scrap strainers a minimum of five times per day.
* Check and record final rinse temperatures daily on Form #66; inspect all
clean dishes and eating utensils for stains or food particles before putting
them away; put away all dishes, utensils, and silverware in their designated
locations; empty and clean the dish machine at the end of each use; clean
dish dollies and stack all dish racks with dollies.
* Properly fill the three-compartment sink and wash, rinse, and sanitize all
pots and pans following the six-step pot washing procedure in the operations
manual; clean and sanitize all work surfaces and the sink before each use;
wash down walls and wipe and polish all stainless steel surfaces in
accordance with the cleaning schedule; wash off carts after each use.
Kitchen, Storage & General Sanitation Support
* Sweep and mop the kitchen, delivery area, storage areas, and servery
throughout the shift and at the end of the day; remove all trash to the
dumpster; separate cardboard and other recyclables into the appropriate bins;
replace garbage bags frequently throughout the day; clean garbage pails
weekly; keep cleaning supplies stored away from all food areas at all times.
* Put away deliveries as they arrive; maintain the stockroom, walk-ins, and all
other storage areas in a clean, organized, and properly labeled condition;
ensure all food is stored correctly and that storage areas are free from
signs of pest activity, debris, or safety hazards; report any maintenance,
equipment, or sanitation concerns to the Chef Manager promptly.
* Follow all Whitsons policies and procedures at all times; comply with all
applicable food safety and health department requirements; attend all
mandatory training and in-service programs; present a positive and
professional image; perform all other duties as assigned by the Chef Manager
or General Manager in support of kitchen and facility operations.
* Follow all workplace safety practices and company safety initiatives,
including proper lifting techniques, safe use of kitchen equipment, knife
safety, chemical safety, PPE requirements, slip/trip/fall prevention, and
clean-as-you-go expectations; promptly report unsafe conditions, hazards,
injuries, or near-miss incidents to the PIC, Chef Manager, General Manager,
or other designated supervisor.
$20/hour
Qualifications
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES
Education
* High school diploma or GED required; must complete all Whitsons and
government-mandated training as required.
Experience
* Some prior experience in a kitchen, food service, or janitorial role helpful;
willingness to learn and follow detailed sanitation and cleaning procedures
required.
Certifications
* Food handling certification preferred; local food safety certification
required in any jurisdiction of employment.
Other Qualifications
* Must be able to speak and read English sufficient to understand job
assignments, follow cleaning procedures, and communicate with the team and
management.
* Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds; physical stamina to stand and work
on feet for the majority of the workday; reliable, hardworking, and committed
to maintaining a clean and safe work environment.
Core Competencies
* Sanitation & Food Safety: Follows all dishwashing, pot washing, and surface
sanitation procedures accurately and consistently; understands that
cleanliness in the kitchen directly supports food safety and health
compliance.
* Execution & Reliability: Completes all assigned cleaning, dishwashing, and
organizational tasks on time and to standard every shift; follows schedules,
procedures, and break assignments consistently.
* Attention to Detail: Inspects dishes and utensils for cleanliness, monitors
soap and water levels, records temperatures accurately, and ensures storage
areas are organized and pest-free.
* Teamwork: Works cooperatively with the food service team to support smooth
kitchen operations; responds to requests from the Chef Manager and colleagues
with a positive, can-do attitude.
* Professionalism: Arrives on time, maintains proper dress and hygiene, follows
all Whitsons policies, and consistently presents a positive image on behalf
of the team.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND OTHER DETAILS
Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time non-exempt position. Hours are aligned with the facility’s
food service schedule. Occasional extended hours including evenings or weekends
may be required.
Travel Requirements
This position is primarily site-based. Occasional travel to other work sites may
be required.
Physical Demands of the Job
The Team Member is required to stand and walk for the majority of the workday;
use hands and fingers to handle, operate, and control equipment, tools, and
controls; and reach with hands and arms. Must be able to lift and/or move up to
50 pounds frequently, including while turning side to side. Must be able to see
in dimly lit areas such as walk-ins and storage areas. Exposure to extreme
temperatures (hot and cold) due to cooking and refrigeration equipment.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to
perform the essential functions.
Work Environment
This position operates primarily in kitchen and storage environments. Standing
is required for the majority of the workday. The noise level is moderate to
loud. The duties listed above are intended as illustrations of the types of work
that may be performed; the omission of specific statements does not exclude them
from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to
the role.
The work is performed primarily in kitchen and storage setting the noise level
in the work environment is moderate to loud.