Food Pantry Operations Assistant

Maine Township is seeking a compassionate, dependable, organized, and energetic individual to join our team as a Full-Time Food Pantry Operations Assistant. This position plays a critical role in the daily operation of the Maine Township Food Pantry and supports the Food Pantry Director in providing nutritious food, personal care items, and other essential resources to individuals and families in need.

The Operations Assistant will supervise pantry staff, and work closely with the Food Pantry Director, volunteers, donors, community organizations, and pantry clients to ensure that the pantry operates efficiently, safely, and with dignity and respect.

Position Details

  • Job Title: Full-Time Food Pantry Operations Assistant
  • Status: Full-Time, 40 hours per week, Exempt
  • Schedule: Monday–Friday; schedule may vary based on pantry operations, deliveries, food drives, special events, and community needs
  • Position Type: Salaried, Full-Time
  • Reports To: Food Pantry Director
  • Compensation: Range: $40,000-$50,000
  • Benefits: Full-time employee benefits, including PTO and other benefits provided by Maine Township.

Primary Purpose of the Position

The Food Pantry Operations Assistant is responsible for supporting the Food Pantry Director in the efficient operation of the pantry. The position has significant responsibility for daily pantry operations, food receiving and distribution, inventory, donations, volunteers, food safety, transportation, cleaning,  facility organization, and client service.

The Operations Assistant is expected to take initiative, identify operational needs, and help ensure that the pantry is prepared to serve the community each day.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Daily Pantry Operations
  • Food Receiving and Inventory
  • Donations and Transportation
  • Volunteer Support
  • Food Safety and Sanitation
  • Client Services
  • Administrative Support
  • Facility Operations
  • Food Drives and Events
Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Previous experience in food service, food pantry operations, warehouse operations, grocery, nonprofit, customer service, or a related field preferred.
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
  • Ability to learn pantry inventory, donor, and client-management software.
  • Valid Illinois driver’s license.
  • Reliable transportation.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.
  • Strong customer service skills.
  • Commitment to serving individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
  • Ability to push and pull carts and food-handling equipment.
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive physical tasks.
  • Ability to safely load and unload food and donations.
  • Ability to work in refrigerated and freezer areas when necessary.
Maine Township is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants for employment will be considered without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. To apply, complete an online employment application.