kitchen assistant

Classification Title: Kitchen Assistant

Department: Food Services

Number of Positions: 2

Hours of Work: 2 x Full-Time (40 hours per week, Permanent) (1x Mon-Fri; 1x Tues-Sat)

Reports to: Food Services Coordinator

Application Deadline: Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Street Haven is a dynamic women's multi-service agency that provides shelter, supportive housing, training supports, and addictions therapy to vulnerable women in Toronto. We were established in 1965 and serve 1500 individuals annually. We have seen an increasing complexity of mental health and addiction needs among our clients. We are seeking a qualified and passionate candidate to take on this temporary role who can be part of our high-performance team and provide comprehensive support to improve the lives of our clients.

The Kitchen Assistant plays a vital role in supporting Street Haven's food services operations, working collaboratively to provide nutritious meals for women experiencing homelessness, addiction, and trauma. This position involves hands-on food preparation, maintaining kitchen safety standards, and supporting the overall mission of creating a welcoming, dignified dining experience. The Kitchen Assistant works under the supervision of the Food Service Coordinator and contributes to a positive team environment while ensuring all food safety protocols are followed

Food Preparation & Service

• Prepare meals according to established recipes and dietary requirements
• Assist with menu implementation to accommodate dietary restrictions and special needs
• Follow all food safety regulations and health standards
• Support food preparation using donated items and food bank provisions
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of food preparation areas
• Assist with special event food preparation as needed

Kitchen Operations

• Follow established food safety protocols and procedures
• Maintain kitchen equipment according to cleaning and sanitation schedules
• Assist with inventory management and stock rotation
• Support meal service and cleanup activities
• Help with receiving and organizing food deliveries and donations
• Ensure proper storage of food items and supplies

Administrative Support

• Maintain accurate records of daily food preparation activities
• Document any safety incidents or equipment issues
• Assist with meal count tracking and portion control
• Support transportation of meals and supplies when required
• Follow all established policies and procedures

Personal Attributes

• Compassionate and non-judgmental approach to serving vulnerable populations
• Strong work ethic with attention to detail and food safety protocols
• Team-oriented mindset with ability to work collaboratively in fast-paced environment
• Reliable and punctual with consistent attendance
• Respectful communication skills and cultural sensitivity
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and needs
• Physical stamina for standing, lifting, and working in kitchen environment
• Positive attitude and commitment to Street Haven's mission and values
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Willingness to learn and follow established procedures

Qualifications and Requirements

• A 2-year diploma from a registered community in Hospitality, Food Services and Human Services, or a minimum of 2 years of combined and relevant experience.
• Experience working in communal living settings and working with marginalized women would be an asset.

Where we work

This role is based in Downtown Toronto and requires working on-site during the hours of work. Some travel to other sites may be needed.

Inclusion

We are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Street Haven is an equal opportunity employer and candidates from diverse communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

We are committed to providing employment accommodation in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. Please advise us in advance if you require accommodation so we can plan as necessary.

Application process

To be considered for this position, you are committed to the mission of Street Haven. Street Haven is directed by the principles of Housing First and Harm Reduction, with all policies, procedures and service delivery informed by a demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from women, and we welcome applications from candidates who can relate to and understand the unique needs of our client population.

We thank all applicants for their interest but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Application deadline is Tuesday, October 21, 2025, 11:59PM EST.

Hours of Work: 2 x Full-Time (40 hours per week, Permanent)

(1x Mon-Fri; 1x Tues-Sat)