Food Service Support Workers

Food Service Support Workers play a crucial role in the smooth and efficient operation of food service establishments. They assist cooks, servers, and other kitchen staff by performing a variety of essential tasks that contribute to the overall dining experience. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the type of establishment (restaurant, catering, hospital, school cafeteria, etc.), but some common duties include:

Kitchen Support:

• Dishwashing: Operating dishwashing machines to clean and sanitize dishes, cutlery, pots, pans, and other kitchen equipment. This often involves scraping food waste, loading and unloading machines, and ensuring proper chemical levels.
• Cleaning and Sanitizing Work Areas: Maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen surfaces, floors, equipment, and storage areas. This includes sweeping, mopping, wiping down counters, and disposing of trash and recyclables.
• Basic Food Preparation: Assisting cooks with simple food preparation tasks such as washing and peeling vegetables, portioning ingredients, making salads, or assembling basic items.
• Stocking and Organizing: Unpacking deliveries, organizing and storing food and supplies in refrigerators, freezers, and storage areas, and ensuring proper rotation of stock (FIFO - First-In, First-Out).
• Delivering Supplies: Transporting food, equipment, and supplies between different areas of the kitchen or to serving stations.
• Assisting with Inventory: Helping to count and track inventory of food and supplies.
• Operating Basic Kitchen Equipment: Using equipment like food processors, slicers (under supervision and with proper training), and scales.

Dining Area Support:

• Setting Tables: Preparing tables for service by placing clean linens, silverware, glassware, and condiments.
• Clearing Tables: Removing used dishes, cutlery, and other items from tables after guests have finished eating.
• Bussing Tables: Transporting dirty dishes to the dishwashing area.
• Refilling Beverages: Offering and refilling water, coffee, or other non-alcoholic beverages for guests.
• Assisting Servers: Running food to tables, delivering drinks, and providing other support to the serving staff.
• Maintaining Dining Area Cleanliness: Wiping down tables, chairs, and spills in the dining area.
• Restocking Service Stations: Ensuring that condiment containers, napkins, and other service items are adequately stocked.

General Support:

• Following Safety and Sanitation Guidelines: Adhering to all health and safety regulations.
• Communicating with Kitchen and Serving Staff: Relaying information and ensuring smooth coordination.
• Performing Other Duties as Assigned: Assisting with various tasks as needed to support the overall operation of the food service establishment.

Key Skills and Qualities:

• Efficiency and Speed: Ability to work quickly and effectively, especially during busy periods.
• Attention to Detail: Ensuring cleanliness and proper handling of food and equipment.
• Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with other kitchen and service staff.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand, walk, lift, and carry items for extended periods.
• Ability to Follow Instructions: Understanding and carrying out directions from supervisors and other staff.
• Basic Knowledge of Food Safety and Sanitation.
• Organizational Skills: Keeping work areas clean and organized.
• Good Communication Skills: Interacting effectively with colleagues and sometimes with customers.
• Reliability and Punctuality.

Food service support workers are the unsung heroes of many food establishments. Their diligent work behind the scenes and in the dining area is essential for maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient environment, ultimately contributing to a positive experience for both staff and customers.