Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo Is Urgently Hiring Dishwasher – Calgary, AB

Job details

Location:  Calgary, AB
Salary: $20–$22 an hour
Job type: Full Time , Part time
Shift/Hours: Morning, night, overnight

Looking for an amazing summer work experience? Join the team at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo as a Dishwasher for the 2023 season! As a Dishwasher, you will join our enthusiastic catering team and be responsible for the sanitation and cleanliness of the kitchen, as well as some food preparation.

Our Mission | Take and inspire action to sustain wildlife and wild places

Our Values | Effective collaboration and communication, honesty and integrity, customer focus, safety, and conservation

Contract:

• Start Date: As soon as possible
  
• End Date: December 31, 2023

What you will do:

• Create exceptional experience through high level of cleanliness and sanitary conditions
• Adhere to policies and procedures regarding sanitation and sanitary food handling
• Prepare food as directed under the supervision of a Banquet Cook, following specifications on Event Orders
• Ensures all work areas are clean, including all counter tops, utensils, equipment, and refrigeration is in a clean and
• sanitary condition in accordance with company health regulations and safety regulations
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of all storage areas including waste & recycling disposal
• Supports other positions within the kitchen that are in need of help
• Comply with the organization’s health and safety program
• Perform additional duties as required

What you will bring:

• 1 to 2 years experience in a culinary environment
• Strong preference will be given to those with experience in mid to large sized operations
• Food Safe training is an asset
• Ability to work independently and with a team

Working Conditions:

• Standing during entire shift
• Fast pace environment
• Exposure to hot & cold elements in kitchen
• Consistent exposure to flora and fauna on Zoo grounds
• Flexible work schedule including morning, evenings, weekend, and holidays
• Heavy lifting (up to 50lbs.), walking, and standing for long periods of time is required

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is an outdoor facility and all staff working at the zoo must be comfortable working in a large variety of outdoor conditions. The organization follows the advice of Environment Canada when responding to temperature and air quality issues.

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is a no smoking environment including vaping.

What We Offer:

• Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
• Participation in the Staff Pass Benefit program
• A fun, rewarding work environment and the opportunity to work in a park full of wild animals

Are you ready to join one of Canada’s leaders in wildlife conservation?

If this position suits your skills, experience and personal attributes, we want to talk to you.

Apply by doing the following:

• Watch this video about the conservation work being done at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewuP6xA-yiA)
• Submit your resume with a cover letter via our online application system.

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada.

If this position is a fit for you, we encourage you to apply with a resume and cover letter. Applications will remain open until all positions are filled. We encourage you to apply early!

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo strives to cultivate a workplace in which everyone feels welcome and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. As a conservation organization, we respect and value the diversity of all life and come together as individuals and teammates to achieve the Zoo’s mission and vision. We recognize the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work to advance our culture to ensure diverse viewpoints are heard and everyone has an equitable chance to succeed and thrive.

All candidates are thanked for their applications and advised that only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

What skills and qualities are important for a Dishwasher?

Being a dishwasher requires specific skills and qualities to excel in the role. Here are some important skills and qualities for a dishwasher:

1. Physical Stamina: Dishwashing can be physically demanding, requiring standing for long periods and handling heavy trays or utensils. Having good physical stamina and endurance is important to keep up with the demands of the job.
2. Time Management: Dishwashers often work in a fast-paced environment, needing to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Effective time management skills help them keep up with the flow of dirty dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment, ensuring a steady supply of clean items.
3. Attention to Detail: Dishwashers must pay close attention to detail to ensure that all items are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. They should be diligent in removing food residues, stains, and grease, and ensure that no dirty dishes or utensils are overlooked.
4. Manual Dexterity: Excellent manual dexterity is crucial for handling delicate items, maneuvering through busy kitchen spaces, and operating dishwashing equipment efficiently. This includes skills like stacking dishes, loading and unloading trays, and safely handling sharp objects.
5. Ability to Follow Instructions: Dishwashers need to follow instructions from kitchen staff or supervisors regarding specific cleaning procedures, handling of sensitive items, and organizational guidelines. Being able to understand and implement instructions accurately is essential.
6. Teamwork and Communication: Dishwashers are part of a larger kitchen team and must work collaboratively with chefs, cooks, and other staff members. Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment contribute to a smooth flow of operations.
7. Hygiene and Sanitation Awareness: Dishwashers play a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen. They should have a strong understanding of sanitation practices, follow food safety regulations, and adhere to proper handwashing techniques.
8. Adaptability and Flexibility: The demands in a kitchen can change rapidly, and dishwashers need to be adaptable and flexible. They should be willing to assist with other tasks as needed, such as food preparation, kitchen cleaning, or restocking supplies.
9. Positive Attitude: Having a positive attitude can make the dishwashing job more enjoyable and help maintain a harmonious work environment. A positive mindset allows dishwashers to approach their duties with enthusiasm and contribute to the overall team morale.
10. Dependability and Reliability: Dishwashers are an essential part of the kitchen team, and dependability is highly valued. Being punctual, reliable, and consistently delivering high-quality work is important for the smooth functioning of the kitchen.

While formal education or specific certifications may not be required for the role of a dishwasher, having the above skills and qualities can contribute to being a successful and valued member of the kitchen team.

What education and certification are required to become a Dishwasher?

Becoming a dishwasher typically does not require formal education or specific certifications. It is an entry-level position that often provides on-the-job training. However, certain education and certifications can be beneficial for enhancing job prospects and advancing in the culinary industry. Here are some relevant options:

1. High School Diploma or Equivalent: While not always mandatory, having a high school diploma or its equivalent is generally preferred by employers. It demonstrates basic educational attainment and may improve job opportunities.
2. Food Handler Certification: In some regions, obtaining a food handler certification is required by law for individuals working in food service positions. This certification ensures that individuals have a basic understanding of food safety practices, such as proper hygiene, temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, and allergen awareness.
3. Culinary or Hospitality Education: Although not specifically required for a dishwasher role, completing a culinary or hospitality program can provide a strong foundation of knowledge and skills in the food service industry. These programs cover topics such as food preparation, sanitation, kitchen safety, and customer service.
4. On-the-Job Training: Most dishwashing positions provide on-the-job training, where new hires learn specific procedures and techniques directly from experienced staff members. This training helps familiarize individuals with the kitchen environment, equipment usage, and cleanliness standards.

While formal education and certifications are not typically required to become a dishwasher, they can be beneficial for career advancement or transitioning to other roles within the culinary industry, such as line cook or prep cook positions. Additionally, demonstrating a willingness to learn, having a strong work ethic, and possessing a positive attitude are qualities that can greatly contribute to success in a dishwasher role.

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 Dishwasher?

The work environment for a dishwasher can vary depending on the establishment, such as restaurants, hotels, catering companies, or institutional kitchens. Here are some general aspects of the work environment that dishwashers may experience:

1. Kitchen Setting: Dishwashers primarily work in the kitchen area of food service establishments. This includes restaurant kitchens, banquet halls, cafeterias, or catering facilities. The kitchen environment can be busy, crowded, and fast-paced, especially during peak meal times.
2. Fast-Paced and High-Pressure: Dishwashing is often fast-paced and can involve a high volume of dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Dishwashers are expected to work efficiently and keep up with the demands of the kitchen, especially during busy periods.
3. Physical Demands: The work of a dishwasher can be physically demanding. It involves standing for long periods, bending, lifting heavy trays, and repetitive motions. Good physical stamina and endurance are important to handle the physical demands of the job.
4. Team Collaboration: Dishwashers are an integral part of the kitchen team. They work closely with chefs, cooks, servers, and other kitchen staff. Effective communication and teamwork skills are necessary to ensure smooth operations and support the overall functioning of the kitchen.
5. Hot and Noisy Environment: The kitchen environment can be hot, humid, and noisy due to the presence of cooking equipment, steam, and multiple activities happening simultaneously. Dishwashers should be comfortable working in such conditions.
6. Cleanliness and Sanitation: Dishwashers play a vital role in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen. They are responsible for ensuring that dishes, utensils, and equipment are thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and stored appropriately to meet food safety standards.
7. Flexible Schedule: Dishwashing positions often involve working evenings, weekends, and holidays since these are typically busy times for food establishments. Dishwashers should be prepared for a flexible work schedule that aligns with the needs of the business.
8. Time Constraints: Timeliness is crucial in the dishwashing role. Dishes and utensils need to be cleaned and returned to the kitchen quickly to maintain the flow of operations and ensure that other kitchen staff have the necessary tools to continue their tasks.
9. Potential for Growth: While dishwashing is an entry-level position, it can provide opportunities for growth and advancement in the culinary industry. Hardworking and dedicated dishwashers may have the chance to move up to positions such as prep cook, line cook, or kitchen supervisor with additional experience and training.

It’s important to note that the work environment can vary based on the specific establishment, the size of the kitchen, and the overall culture of the workplace. Each kitchen may have its own unique dynamics and requirements.