Support with our newest project – preserving fruits and vegetables! 

Location:

8345 Winston Street, Burnaby 

Role Overview:

Volunteers will be part of the food preservation process from start to finish. We are looking for individuals who can support weekly, complete tasks independently, and have a passion for food!  

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;  
• 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); 
• 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
• 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+

Schedule:

Tuesday – Thursday from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm