Now Hiring: Programs Assistant

Published on July 20, 2021

Beyond Hunger is harnessing the power of communities to end hunger. An award-winning direct service agency (formerly Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry), we serve residents of 13 zip codes on the West Side of Chicago and surrounding suburbs.  Last year we provided critical food assistance and programming to over 40,000 individuals.  Our energetic and fulfilling work environment is resourced by an operating budget of $3 million, 9 full-time staff members, 6 part-time staff, 4 full-time AmeriCorps members, over 1300 active volunteers—and possibly you.

We are seeking someone as passionate as we are about ending hunger. Someone who understands that groceries delivered to older adults’ homes provide comfort and nutrition to a vulnerable population. Someone who understands that maintaining inventory quality helps us provide the best foods to our community. By helping us reduce the food access barriers to quality and nutritious food, this is your opportunity to play a vital role in creating a hunger-free community. This position is for you if you are a mission-driven team player with attention to detail, excellent time management, and knowledge of operating a non-CDL commercial van.

Reports To: Programs Manager and Senior Pantry Programs Manager
Supervises:  Volunteers/Interns as requested
Status: Part-time, hourly. $17 per hour and based on no more than 30 hours per week.

Job Summary: The Programs Assistant is on site at our Pantry in Oak Park supporting our efforts in providing free food to the community. They'll also help deliver packaged groceries to homebound seniors and disabled adults in the Western Suburbs and Chicago’s Austin community.  This team member will need to be able to drive a non CDL commercial van to perform certain job duties.

Major Responsibilities:

Pantry Assistance

  • Maintain organization of Pantry per food safety regulations. 
  • Manage food procurement and documentation. 
  • Communicate with volunteers to ensure a positive experience for both the volunteers and the agency.
  • Assume additional responsibilities as assigned by the Senior Pantry Programs Manager to accomplish the purpose and goals of the hunger relief program. 

Individual Home Deliveries

  • Load, unload, and deliver packaged groceries to homebound clients living in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood, Oak Park, River Forest, and nearby west suburban communities.
  • Review orders carefully and pay attention to detail to ensure that each client receives their correct order.
  • Greet clients in a friendly and welcoming matter during deliveries.
  • Teach Route Assistance Volunteers on home delivery route protocols, as assigned.
  • Document and report clients who had successful and unsuccessful deliveries, as well as notes to help you on future routes.
  • Confirm and report phone numbers and address changes with clients, as directed.
  • Assist Program Coordinator with other duties, as assigned by the Programs Manager.

Food Donations Pick-Ups

  • Occasionally assist in the pick-up of food rescues and in-kind donations from various grocery stores and businesses in the surrounding neighborhoods of Beyond Hunger as needed.
  • Ensure food is handled with care when loading and unloading to prevent damage.
  • Oversee and train volunteers as needed for deliveries, rescues, and donations. 

Record Keeping and Van Maintenance

  • Prepare and maintain accurate and complete records of all rescue pick-ups and deliveries, reporting any discrepancies to the manager.
  • Complete daily vehicle inspections to ensure proper maintenance and cleanliness of vehicle.
  • Report and document any maintenance issues to the manager immediately, responsible for gas maintenance during shift.
  • Check out and maintain all assigned Beyond Hunger equipment, such as dollies, totes, crates, and signature devices.
  • Operate the vehicle according to all local, state, and federal regulations.

Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Have a valid driver’s license for at least 3 consecutive years with an excellent record.
  • Experience operating a non-CDL commercial van is preferred.
  • Food sanitation licensure preferred or ability to achieve once hired (Beyond Hunger will pay fees).
  • Must be able to lift more than 50 pounds.
  • Ability to perform all duties associated with a physically strenuous position.
  • Ability to stay calm, communicate effectively, and resolve issues during shifts.
  • Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work with and encourage interaction between people of all ages and abilities.
  • Knowledge of Oak Park, River Forest, and Chicago’s Austin neighborhood highly preferred.
  • Bi-lingual skills (English/Spanish) are a plus.
  • Residents living in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood are encouraged to apply.

To apply:  Send resume to Nina@GoBeyondHunger.org.