Kitchen Crew

Mendocino Railway is the owner/operator of freight and passenger railroads including the California Western Railroad (CWR) / Skunk Train and the River Fox Train . The world-famous Skunk Train is a standard gauge passenger railroad that was founded in 1885, and operates 40 miles between Fort Bragg and Willits, in Mendocino County, California..

The Skunk Train is looking for dependable and hardworking individuals to join our Kitchen Crew . The Kitchen Crew will assist with daily food preparation, cooking, cleaning, and overall kitchen operations. This position supports the team in maintaining food quality, cleanliness, organization, and efficient service during daily operations and special events. This is a full-time position and includes working evenings, weekends, and holidays.

The ideal candidate will have a CA Food Handler’s Card, follow food safety standards, and contribute to the overall guest experience.

This position operates in a commercial kitchen environment with exposure to cold, heat, sharp equipment, and fast-paced service conditions. Team members are expected to maintain professionalism, cleanliness, and safety standards at all times.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including but not limited to)

• Assist with food preparation and cooking

• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen, prep areas, equipment, and storage areas

• Wash dishes, utensils, cookware, and kitchen equipment

• Assist with stocking and organizing inventory

• Follow food safety and sanitation procedures at all times

• Support cooks and kitchen leadership during service periods

• Help with receiving and storing deliveries

• Maintain organized workstations and proper food labeling/storage

• Assist with opening and closing kitchen duties

• Work collaboratively with kitchen staff and management

• Support special events, catering, and high-volume service periods as needed

• Knows, implements, and follows all applicable health and safety standard laws, statues, rules, and company policies

• Communicate effectively with guests, crew members and supervisors to ensure seamless service.

• Ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS 

• Minimum 1 year of kitchen or food service experience

• Valid Food Handler Certification required

• Basic knowledge of food preparation techniques

• Understanding of kitchen safety and sanitation standards

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

• Strong work ethic and reliability

• Ability to follow directions and work as part of a team

• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds

• Flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, and holidays

• Pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check required prior to hiring

• Good verbal and written communication skills in the English language

• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail

• Must be reliable, punctual, and professional in appearance and demeanor

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand for extended periods and walk on uneven surfaces (train platforms, gravel, etc.).

• Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. safely.

• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, push, pull, and use kitchen equipment.

• Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor environments and around moving rail equipment (with provided safety training).

• Must be able to perform duties safely while on the tracks and a moving train.

BENEFITS & ADDITIONAL NOTES 

• Employment is full-time and includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement, paid holidays, paid sick leave, and paid time off.

EEO Statement

Mendocino Railway is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disabled status or any other protected class.