Kitchen Assistant

Esperanza Academy is looking for a hands-on, detail-oriented Kitchen Assistant to join our Food Services team. In this role, you'll work alongside our Chef to prepare and serve nutritious, appealing meals that fuel our students every day, while helping create a warm, welcoming dining experience that reflects Esperanza Academy's mission and values.

About Esperanza: For more than two decades, Esperanza has paired rigorous academics with a long-term commitment to its students, supporting them through middle school, high school placement, college navigation, and early career development. As the school moves into its new home and expands its reach, Esperanza is positioned not only to serve more students and families, but also to contribute to national conversations about what equitable, justice-centered education can look like.

Responsibilities

  • Help prepare daily meals; chopping, cooking, and plating with care and consistency

  • Keep kitchen areas, equipment, and utensils clean, organized, and ready to go

  • Support proper food storage and inventory management alongside the chef

  • Set up and break down meal service and dining areas

  • Help implement food safety and sanitation best practices

  • Work with the chef to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies

  • Jump in to support special events and school functions as needed

Qualifications and Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • At least 1 year of experience in food preparation and service (school or institutional setting preferred)

  • Current food handler certification (e.g., ServSafe) or willingness to obtain one

  • Basic knowledge of dietary restrictions and allergies

  • Ability to safely and effectively use kitchen equipment

  • Basic computer skills for inventory tracking and meal planning

  • A commitment to Esperanza Academy's mission, values, and goals

  • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks such as bending, lifting, and carrying up to 50 lbs

  • Comfort working in a kitchen environment with heat, cold, and potential allergens

  • Ability to stay focused and energized in a fast-paced setting

Compensation

Salary range: $20-$25 per hour


To Apply

Please send a cover letter specifically detailing your qualifications for the position, a resume, and contact information for three professional references to Jadi Taveras, Head of School, at employment@esperanzaacademy.org

Esperanza will only accept applications from individuals currently authorized to work in the U.S.

Non-Discrimination Policy

Esperanza is committed to a diverse and inclusive community with respect to race, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, family status, economic circumstance, age, and physical disability in its student body, faculty and staff. Esperanza Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, and athletic and other school-administered programs. Esperanza Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.