Food Pantry Assistant

St Johns Community Services • Full-time • Annandale, Virginia, United States • $19 / hour • 1d ago

To be considered for any SJCS careers, all applicants must apply using this link SJCS Careers

About St. John’s Community Services

As one of the oldest non-profit organizations founded in the District of Columbia, St. John’s Community Services (SJCS) is committed to supporting and advocating for people of all abilities. SJCS works to cultivate caring communities to ensure that all people have the opportunity to thrive, and no one is left behind.We support individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as adults and children experiencing hunger and homelessness in 4 states and the District of Columbia.

At SJCS, we pride ourselves in meeting every person we support where they are, learning who they are, and affirming their individuality, unique strengths, and hopes. It’s why we exist. Advancing inclusive communities where every person, regardless of circumstances, has the right and opportunity to live their best life is our mission, and our mission is what drives us and is at the heart of our services and programs.

What are we looking for?

We want to add a Food Pantry Assistant to our team. The Food Pantry Assistant is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the SJCS Food Pantry, ensuring efficient service delivery, and promoting community engagement. This role involves managing food inventory, coordinating volunteers, and building partnerships with local organizations to support food security initiatives. The coordinator will work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and clients to create a welcoming environment that meets the needs of our community.

Your overall essential responsibilities will be the following:

Operational Management
- Oversee day-to-day operations of the food pantry, including client intake and food distribution.
- Maintain accurate records of food inventory and usage, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Develop and implement efficient food sorting, storage, and distribution processes.
- Place food orders with CAFB and other food sources
- Keep the pantry cleaned and within any regulations
Volunteer Coordination
- Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers to support pantry operations.
- Schedule volunteer shifts and provide ongoing support and feedback.
- Foster a positive and collaborative volunteer environment.
Community Engagement
- Build and maintain partnerships with local food suppliers, businesses, and organizations to enhance food resources.
- Organize community outreach efforts to raise awareness about food insecurity and the pantry’s services.
- Represent the food pantry at community events and meetings.
Client Support
- Provide compassionate support to clients, ensuring a respectful and dignified experience.
- Assess client needs and connect them with additional resources as necessary (e.g., housing, healthcare, job training).
- Collect and analyze feedback from clients to improve pantry services.
Reporting and Compliance
- Prepare regular reports on pantry operations, including metrics related to food distribution and volunteer engagement.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and policies regarding food safety and service delivery.

The hiring range for this position is $19.00 per hour.

This list of responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this position is not complete; other duties may be assigned and are expected to be followed.

You will catch our eye if you have the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

Ability to handle multiple assignments.
Exceptional organization, interpersonal skills, and time management skills
Previous experience in food pantry operations, community service, or nonprofit management is preferred.
Strong background in volunteer management and community engagement
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, committed to serving diverse populations.
Ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and community partners.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and essential data management software.

Extra credit will be given if you have the following experience, education, and requirements:

A high school diploma or GED is preferred but not required.
Proven experience in office management or administrative support roles.

Reliable transportation and willingness to travel between SJCS offices in the DMV region.
Ability to work evening and weekend hours to accommodate pantry operations and community events.

All SJCS employees must:

Obtain a valid health certificate to meet SJCS or current funding authority requirements as required.
Meet SJCS and the funding authority requirements of criminal background, drug screening, and record checks.

Physical and environmental conditions include:

Ability to lift and move office supplies and materials weighing up to 40 pounds with help.
Bending, stooping, pushing, and moving large boxes, shelves, and furniture.
Capacity to work in a variety of environments, including a warehouse setting
The position is primarily office-based, with regular rotation between SJCS offices in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

Other benefits include the following: