Canada Jobs
Pita Bell Corp Is Now Hiring Multiple Candidates For Food Service Attendant Job – Ottawa, ON
Job Description
A Food Service Attendant, also known as a food service worker or cafeteria attendant, is a professional who works in various food service establishments, such as restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals, schools, or catering companies. Their primary role is to assist in the preparation, serving, and clean-up of food and beverages.
Tasks
- Bring clean dishes, flatware and other items to serving areas and set tables
- Carrying and replace linen
- Clean and sanitize items such as dishwasher mats, carts and waste disposal units
- Clear and clean tables, trays and chairs
- Load buspans and trays
- Operate dishwashers to wash dishes, glassware and flatware
- Place dishes in storage area
- Replenish condiments and other supplies at tables and serving areas
- Sanitize and wash dishes and other items by hand
- Scour pots and pans
- Keep records of the quantities of food used
- Package take-out food
- Portion and wrap foods
- Prepare, heat and finish simple food items
- Serve customers at counters or buffet tables
- Stock refrigerators and salad bars
- Take customers’ orders
- Use manual and electrical appliances to clean, peel, slice and trim foodstuffs
- Clean and sanitize kitchen including work surfaces, cupboards, storage areas, appliances and equipment
- Handle and store cleaning products
- Receive, unpack and store supplies in refrigerators, freezers, cupboards and other storage areas
- Remove kitchen garbage and trash
- Sharpen kitchen knives
- Sweep, mop, wash and polish floors
- Wash, peel and cut vegetables and fruit
Equipment and machinery experience
- Conventional oven
- Deep fryer
- Electronic cash register
- Food dispensers
- Grill
Security and safety
- Criminal record check
- Transportation/travel information
- Willing to travel
- Willing to travel regularly
Work conditions and physical capabilities
- Fast-paced environment
- Handling heavy loads
- Overtime required
- Physically demanding
- Repetitive tasks
- Standing for extended periods
- Work under pressure
What skills and qualities are important for a Food Service Attendant ?
To excel as a Food Service Attendant, several skills and qualities are essential. Here are some important ones:
- Customer Service: A strong focus on customer service is vital. Food Service Attendants should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with customers in a friendly and helpful manner, addressing their needs and ensuring a positive dining experience.
- Attention to Detail: Paying attention to detail is crucial in food service. Attendants need to follow recipes accurately, portion meals correctly, and maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards. They should also be mindful of any special dietary requirements or allergies when serving customers.
- Time Management: Food Service Attendants often work in fast-paced environments where they need to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Effective time management skills help them prioritize tasks, ensure timely service, and maintain a smooth workflow.
- Adaptability: The food service industry can be unpredictable, with varying customer demands and changing circumstances. Being adaptable and flexible allows Food Service Attendants to adjust to different situations, such as sudden rush hours, menu changes, or unforeseen challenges.
- Teamwork: Collaboration with other staff members, such as cooks, chefs, and fellow attendants, is crucial. Food Service Attendants should be able to work well in a team, communicate effectively, and assist others when needed to ensure efficient service delivery.
- Basic Food Preparation Skills: While extensive culinary expertise may not be required, having basic food preparation skills is advantageous. Familiarity with knife handling, food safety practices, and knowledge of various cooking methods can enhance efficiency and contribute to the overall kitchen operations.
- Hygiene and Food Safety Knowledge: Food Service Attendants must have a solid understanding of hygiene practices and food safety regulations. This includes proper handwashing, storage of perishable items, temperature control, and preventing cross-contamination to ensure the safety and well-being of customers.
- Stamina and Physical Fitness: Working in the food service industry often involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, and performing physically demanding tasks. Having stamina, physical fitness, and the ability to work comfortably in a fast-paced environment is important.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Food Service Attendants should be adept at finding solutions to unexpected situations or customer complaints. The ability to think on their feet, remain calm under pressure, and resolve issues efficiently is valuable in providing excellent customer service.
- Positive Attitude: A positive and friendly attitude goes a long way in creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers. Food Service Attendants should be enthusiastic, approachable, and willing to go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.
By possessing these skills and qualities, Food Service Attendants can deliver exceptional service, maintain high standards of hygiene and food safety, and contribute to a positive dining experience for customers.
What education and certification are required to become a Food Service Attendant ?
The educational requirements for becoming a Food Service Attendant can vary depending on the employer and the specific position. In many cases, a high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum educational requirement. However, some employers may hire individuals without a high school diploma, particularly for entry-level positions.
Formal education or specific certifications may not be mandatory for Food Service Attendants, but they can be advantageous and increase employability. Here are some educational and certification options that can benefit individuals pursuing a career as a Food Service Attendant:
- Food Handling and Safety Certification: Obtaining a food handling and safety certification is highly recommended for anyone working in the food service industry. These certifications are often required by local health departments and demonstrate knowledge of proper food handling practices, sanitation, and food safety regulations. Examples include ServSafe, Safe Food Handling, or Food Handler Certification programs. The specific certification requirements may vary depending on the region or jurisdiction.
- Culinary or Hospitality Courses: While not mandatory, completing culinary or hospitality courses can provide a strong foundation of knowledge and skills in food preparation, kitchen operations, and customer service. These courses can be pursued at vocational schools, community colleges, or specialized culinary institutes. They may offer programs in culinary arts, food service management, or hospitality management.
- On-the-Job Training: Many Food Service Attendant positions provide on-the-job training, where individuals learn specific tasks and procedures related to their role. This training may cover areas such as food preparation, service techniques, cash handling, and safety protocols. The duration and extent of training can vary depending on the employer and the complexity of the job.
It’s important to note that relevant work experience and practical skills are highly valued in the food service industry. While formal education and certifications can enhance job prospects, gaining experience through part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer positions in food service establishments can also be beneficial.
Ultimately, the specific educational requirements and certifications may vary depending on the employer’s preferences, local regulations, and the level of responsibility associated with the Food Service Attendant position.
Who can apply to this job?
The employer accepts applications from:
Canadian citizens and permanent or temporary residents of Canada.
Other candidates with or without a valid Canadian work permit.
How to apply
Online: Apply On Company WebSite
What is the work environment like for Food Service Attendant ?
The work environment for Food Service Attendants can vary depending on the type of establishment they work in. Here are some common work environments for Food Service Attendants:
- Restaurants and Cafeterias: Food Service Attendants in restaurants and cafeterias may work in a fast-paced environment, particularly during peak hours. They may be exposed to busy kitchens, hot equipment, and a constant flow of customers. The work environment can range from casual dining establishments to fine dining restaurants, each with its own atmosphere and level of formality.
- Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Food Service Attendants in hospitals and healthcare facilities provide meals to patients, staff, and visitors. The work environment can be fast-paced, as they need to adhere to specific dietary requirements and deliver meals on time. They may work in clean and sterile environments, following strict hygiene protocols to prevent the spread of infections.
- Schools and Educational Institutions: In schools and educational institutions, Food Service Attendants cater to students, faculty, and staff. The work environment typically follows the academic calendar, with busy periods during meal times. They may work in cafeterias or dining halls, ensuring efficient service and maintaining a clean and orderly eating area.
- Catering Companies and Events: Food Service Attendants in catering companies often work in a dynamic environment where they provide food and beverages for various events, such as weddings, conferences, or parties. They may need to set up temporary kitchens or serving stations at different locations and work closely with the event organizers to meet specific requirements.
- Food Trucks and Concessions: Food Service Attendants working in food trucks or concessions experience a mobile and compact work environment. They serve customers at outdoor venues, festivals, or sports events. The work environment can be fast-paced and may involve handling cash transactions in a confined space.
Regardless of the specific work environment, Food Service Attendants should expect to spend a significant portion of their time on their feet, moving between tasks, and interacting with customers. They may work in shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as the food service industry often requires flexibility to accommodate customer demands.
It’s important to note that the work environment can be demanding at times, requiring physical stamina, the ability to multitask, and excellent time management skills. Additionally, maintaining a high level of cleanliness, adhering to food safety regulations, and providing exceptional customer service are essential aspects of the work environment for Food Service Attendants.