SEIU Cook Helper - $19.13 to $25.95 per HOUR

The University of Rochester is a prestigious institution deeply committed to the Meliora philosophy, which means "Ever Better." This commitment reflects the core values that define the university community, including equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. These values ensure that the university provides an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive environment where all members can thrive and achieve their highest potential. Located in Rochester, New York, the University of Rochester is known for its dedication to academic excellence, innovative research, and a strong sense of community. With an emphasis on collaboration and continuous improvement, the university strives to set the highest standards for how members treat each other, fostering a culture where diversity is embraced and every individual is valued. This particular job opening is within the University of Rochester’s Dining Services, specifically in the ESM Dining/Auxiliary Operations department. It is a regular, full-time position with a schedule of 40 hours per week, predominantly during the daytime shift. The role falls under the UR SEIU 025 H pay range, offering compensation between $19.13 and $25.95 per hour depending on experience and qualifications. This position is crucial to supporting the food preparation and service functions within campus dining, directly contributing to the daily operations that ensure students, faculty, and staff receive quality meals in a timely and sanitary manner. The role involves working closely alongside cooks and culinary staff, assisting them in gathering ingredients and supplies necessary to prepare meals. It also includes performing basic cooking tasks such as grilling and broiling, sometimes independently. The employee will be responsible for tending foods during cooking by monitoring progress, adjusting times and temperatures, and adding seasonings as needed, following established recipes and guidelines. Other responsibilities are diverse and vital to foodservice operations, including food preparation tasks like peeling, washing, trimming, and cutting vegetables, fruits, meats, and cheeses. The position requires accurate measurement and mixing of ingredients according to standardized recipes which may be computer-generated. The role also encompasses assembling food servings and making up patient trays or meal containers, while practicing strict food safety protocols to prevent spoilage and ensure freshness. Additionally, the job includes handling the storage and proper disposal of food items, cleaning kitchen areas and utensils, and maintaining equipment sanitation standards. This involves using various kitchen equipment such as ovens, grills, fryers, steamers, mixers, and knives. The successful candidate must follow all safety and hygiene policies rigorously, contributing to a clean, efficient, and safe working environment. Physical demands include the ability to lift items weighing approximately 40 to 50 pounds, and practical knowledge of food preparation methods is required. The role is ideal for individuals with at least one year of commercial food service experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The University of Rochester is not only committed to providing quality education and services but also prioritizes creating and maintaining an inclusive culture. It strictly adheres to non-discrimination policies based on age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This reflects the university’s dedication to fairness and equality in recruitment, employment, admissions, and all aspects of university life.

• Knowledge of the methods of food preparation
• ability to read and write English and understand and follow oral and written instructions
• one year experience in commercial food service or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• ability to lift items weighing approximately 40-50 pounds