Support with our newest project – preserving fruits and vegetables!
Location:
8345 Winston Street, Burnaby
Role Overview:
Volunteers will support the food preservation process from start to finish. This role is ideal for individuals who are comfortable working in a kitchen environment, can work independently, and have a passion for food. Responsibilities involve the use of sharp tools, food processing equipment, and adherence to food safety standards. Volunteers should be able to collaborate effectively with others, adapt to changing priorities, and follow verbal instructions with limited supervision. There may also be opportunities to contribute to research and development activities.
Responsibilities:
- Wash, trim, peel, slice, chop, and dice fruit and vegetables according to staff instructions and standardized cutting methods;
- Use sharp kitchen knives and approved cutting equipment safely and correctly to prepare produce for preservation processes;
- Follow staff guidance on proper knife handling, cutting techniques, and workstation setup to ensure efficiency and reduce the risk of injury;
- Wash, handle, and safely clean sharp objects (including knives and cutting tools) as part of routine kitchen cleanup;
- Clean up the food preparation station and compost food waste;
- Lay fruit and vegetables out on trays;
- Safely handle spoiled food items, which could involve dealing with mold and common food allergens;
- Clean and sanitize dehydrator and freeze dryer racks and other items as needed;
- Prepare and process food in the Food Prep Room (temperature-controlled room, 4 to 10 degrees Celsius);
- Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including a hair net when handling food;
- Efficiently complete other food preservation-related tasks as assigned by the Food Preservation Associate.
Core Skills and Abilities:
- Comfort and confidence using sharp kitchen knives for food preparation;
- Experience or comfort with cutting, slicing, dicing, trimming, and peeling fruit and vegetables;
- Ability to remain focused, alert, and attentive while handling knives and performing repetitive cutting tasks;
- Willingness to follow staff instructions on knife use, cutting techniques, and safety practices;
- Follow all food safety, sanitation, and quality control procedures to ensure products meet organizational standards;
- Ability to work independently and perform tasks in a timely manner;
- Ability to collaborate effectively with other volunteers and staff;
- Food Safe Level 1 is not required but considered an asset.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand for up to three hours;
- Ability to bend, twist, and lift materials safely (up to 40lbs);
- Ability to complete repetitive tasks, including cutting and food preparation;
- Demonstrates safe knife-handling practices at all times;
- Comfortable working in a temperature-controlled room (exposure to changing temperatures).
- Contact volunteer@foodbank.bc.ca to request accommodations.
Age Requirement:
People aged 18+
Maximum Group Size:
4 people
Schedule:
Monday – Friday from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
