Lead Culinary Service Aide - Waitstaff

Are you an experienced food service professional who enjoys supporting others and creating a positive dining experience? A respected healthcare organization in Harrisonburg, VA is seeking a dependable, service-focused Lead Culinary Services Aide to help oversee daily food service operations in a hospital environment.

This is a contract-to-hire opportunity for someone who leads by example, takes pride in maintaining high standards, and understands the importance of providing safe and welcoming service to patients, families, and staff.

• Competitive pay of $16–$18 per hour, based on experience
• Contract-to-hire opportunity
• Meaningful work in a healthcare environment
• Leadership and mentoring responsibilities
• Opportunity to help improve the overall dining experience
• Supportive, team-oriented workplace

• Lead and support daily culinary and food service operations
• Help train, mentor, and guide Culinary Services Aides
• Provide friendly, attentive customer service
• Work closely with the Director of Culinary Services and Lead Cook
• Help improve the quality, presentation, and overall experience of the retail dining program
• Assist with basic food preparation and meal service
• Review diet orders, tray cards, and daily assignments
• Arrange trays, load food carts, and serve meals
• Set up dining areas and serve patients
• Wash and properly store dishes, utensils, and equipment
• Complete assigned cleaning and sanitation routines
• Receive and properly store food and supplies
• Monitor supply and equipment needs and report concerns
• Follow food safety, infection-control, and emergency procedures
• Participate in department meetings and required training

• Previous institutional, hospital, senior living, or high-volume food service experience preferred
• Previous leadership, training, or mentoring experience is a plus
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Basic food preparation knowledge
• Understanding of sanitation and workplace safety practices
• Ability to read, write, and speak English
• Ability to understand diet orders, tray cards, recipes, and work assignments
• Strong organization, time-management, and attention-to-detail skills
• Basic math skills for recipes, measurements, and cleaning solutions
• Good coordination and manual dexterity
• A patient, respectful, and professional approach when working with patients, families, and coworkers
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule that may include days, evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency coverage

This is an hourly, non-exempt position. The selected candidate must follow all facility and departmental requirements relating to safety, confidentiality, HIPAA, patient rights, ethical conduct, and regulatory compliance.

APEX Placement and Consulting is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.