Food Shelf Assistant

Position Summary

The Salvation Army Carlton County Service Extension Unit, located in Cloquet, MN, is "Doing the Most Good" by providing holistic, person-centered services to individuals and families. Services include short and long-term case management; food, clothing, utility, rent, and housing support; pastoral care, and connections to community partners.

The Food Shelf Assistant supports the daily operations of the food shelf by ensuring the efficient and respectful delivery of services to all program participants. Key responsibilities include distributing food with compassion and professionalism, managing inventory, handling and transporting donations, and maintaining a clean, organized, and compliant facility - including food shelf areas and shared building spaces. The position also provides administrative support, assists with seasonal events, and collaborates closely with volunteers to foster a positive and effective service environment.

$11.96 - $17.95/hour, 19 hours/week

316 Carlton Avenue, Cloquet, MN 55720

Essential Functions (approximate time spent)

• Food Distribution and Participant Service (25%): Distribute food boxes to program participants with professionalism and compassion. Ensure participants are treated with dignity and provided accurate information about available services.
• Food Shelf Operations and Inventory (25%): Receive, sort, store, and rotate food and other in-kind donations according to established guidelines. Maintain accurate inventory records and ensure proper storage and stock rotation to meet food safety standards.
• Donation Handling and Transportation (20%): Load, unload, and transport food and other goods. Ensure donations are handled with care and documented appropriately.
• Volunteer Support and Coordination (10%): Assist in training, guiding, and supporting volunteers involved in food shelf operations. Foster a positive and welcoming environment, ensuring volunteers are equipped to serve participants effectively and safely.
• Facility Maintenance and Compliance (10%): Maintain cleanliness and organization of the food shelf and surrounding building areas, including the breakroom, restroom, and kitchen. Ensure compliance with health department regulations and food bank requirements.
• Administrative and Program Support (5%): Complete clerical tasks such as data entry, filing, and scheduling to support overall program operations.
• Seasonal and Special Event Support (5%): Assist with seasonal campaigns and events, including food drives and the Christmas Kettle Campaign, providing logistical or participant support as needed.

Education and Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in food pantry or food service.
• Must pass background checks.
• Must possess a valid driver's license, be at least 18 years of age, and meet MVR requirements.

Competencies

• Knowledge of safe food handling procedures.
• Knowledge of proper handling of cleaning chemicals and materials.
• Flexible interpersonal and communication skills.
• High level of integrity when dealing with confidential information.
• Dependable, honest, and diligent work ethic.

Working Conditions

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, stretching, reaching, and lifting.
• Must be able to regularly lift/move up to 50 pounds.
• Business casual environment; not eligible for remote work.
• Must be able to communicate effectively with colleagues, volunteers, and participants.

Driving/Travel Requirements

• Drive a personal or agency vehicle locally to transport food and other in-kind donations.

Other Duties

• Operate a personal or agency vehicle to carry out responsibilities in support of program operations and organizational goals.
• Frequent local travel is required; occasional out-of-town or overnight travel may be necessary.