Dishwasher & Kitchen Support

Overview of Role:

The Dishwasher & Produce Support plays a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness and efficiency of the Market Café kitchen while supporting the flow of fresh produce from Bonton Farms’ Bexar Farm and Extension Farm. This position is responsible for dishwashing, kitchen sanitation, and receiving and cleaning farm-grown produce before it enters the kitchen. The role helps ensure that all produce is properly washed, broken down, and prepped to support safe food handling and an efficient kitchen operation.

Key Responsibilities

Dishwashing & Sanitation

• Wash and sanitize dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment using proper methods.
• Operate the dish machine and 3-compartment sink in compliance with health and safety standards.
• Maintain cleanliness of dish area, sinks, floors, and surrounding workspaces.
• Ensure proper chemical usage and sanitation levels at all times.
• Remove trash, recycling, and compost materials as directed.
• Support general kitchen cleaning tasks as assigned.

Farm Produce Handling & Cleaning

• Receive incoming produce deliveries from the Bexar Farm and Extension Farm in the Preservatory or designated shed area.
• Inspect produce for soil, pests, and debris upon arrival.
• Perform thorough washing and initial cleaning of all produce before it enters the kitchen, reducing pest exposure and ensuring safe food handling.
• Organize, store, and label cleaned produce according to kitchen standards.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary produce washing area.

Produce Prep Support
Assist with basic produce breakdown to support kitchen operations, including:

• Removing stems, damaged leaves, roots, or excess plant material.
• Separating, portioning, and trimming herbs, greens, and lettuce.
• Cutting or portioning produce into kitchen-ready components.
• Properly label, date, and store prepped produce for use by cooks.
• Communicate produce needs or quality concerns to kitchen leadership.

Kitchen Support

• Transport clean dishes and equipment to storage areas and ensure items are readily available for kitchen team members.
• Support cooks with basic prep tasks when needed.
• Help maintain kitchen organization and support smooth workflow during service.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department policies.
• Report equipment issues immediately to Kitchen Lead or Manager.
• Adhere to proper uniform, hygiene, and appearance standards.

Team & Culture

• Contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment
•  Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and a strong work ethic.
• Support the mission of Bonton Farms to create community impact through hospitality and high-quality food service.

Qualifications

• Prior dishwashing, kitchen support, or produce handling experience preferred but not required.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Able to stand for long periods and lift up to 40 lbs.
• Comfortable working in changing environments (kitchen, Preservatory, shed).
• Willingness to perform repetitive tasks with attention to detail.

Work Environment
This role moves between indoor kitchen operations and outdoor or semi-covered produce cleaning areas. Exposure to warm, humid, or wet conditions is common. Continuous movement and collaboration with a diverse kitchen team are required.