Kitchen Assistant

This is a part-time position, 10 hours per week.

Te Omanga Hospice is a charitable trust that provides specialist palliative care to patients and their whānau in the Hutt Valley living with a life-limiting or terminal illness. Our vision is that everyone with palliative needs in our community receives equitable, responsive, and proactive care. We hold our values close to our heart, with respect, partnership, compassion and learning at the core of everything we do.

We celebrate different perspectives and are committed to creating an equal and inclusive workplace. The community we support is diverse, and it is important to us that diversity is reflected in the team here at Te Omanga.

Primary Purpose of the Position

To support the efficient operation of the kitchen by assisting with food preparation, baking, cleaning, and general kitchen duties. This includes maintaining a clean and hygienic environment through tasks such as washing dishes, cleaning refrigerators and benchtops, and managing rubbish and recycling. The Kitchen Assistant also provides operational support by covering staff lunch breaks and assisting during periods of annual leave to ensure continuity of kitchen services.

Food Preparation

Assisting with preparing, cooking, baking and assembling patient meals, snacks and desserts, including modified-texture meals as directed.  Meals are of an appropriate size, well presented, at the correct temperature, well-balanced and tasty

Grocery shopping and stock control:

Purchasing or collecting groceries using approved shopping lists, checking deliveries, storing and rotating stock, and reporting shortages.

Food safety and hygiene:

Following the food control plan and food safety procedures, completing assigned temperature checks and records, and maintaining cleaning schedules.

Training:

Including the expectation to attend relevant training, complete assigned courses within agreed timeframes, and apply this knowledge in daily duties.

Team support:

• Work under the direction of the Kitchen Manager and Kitchen Supervisor, following instructions and established procedures to assist with the smooth day-to-day operation of the kitchen.

• Carry out assigned tasks safely, efficiently, and to the required standard, within the scope of training, experience, and capability.

• Demonstrate a willingness to learn new skills, participate in training opportunities, and seek guidance when required.

• Contribute positively to the kitchen team by providing reliable support and assistance as directed.

• Previous experience in a kitchen, food service, hospitality, healthcare, aged care, or similar environment is desirable but not essential.

• Basic knowledge of food preparation, cooking, baking, and safe food handling practices.

• Understanding of food safety and hygiene requirements, or a willingness to learn and follow established procedures.

• Ability to maintain high standards of cleanliness and organisation in a busy kitchen environment.

• Good time management skills and the ability to prioritise tasks effectively.

• Full New Zealand driver's licence is desirable for grocery shopping and collection of supplies.

Personal Attributes

• Positive and supportive team player.
• Genuine commitment to providing quality food and service.
• Flexible, adaptable, and willing to assist where needed.
• Takes pride in their work and pays attention to detail.
• Demonstrates initiative while recognising when to seek guidance.
• Committed to maintaining confidentiality, professionalism, and a safe working environment.

Hours to be worked over three days per week; Monday 3 hours, Wednesday 2 hours and Friday 3 hours.

If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you!   Applications close on 28 October.