SMITHEREEN FARM
JOB DESCRIPTION—KITCHEN ASSISTANT
Position Title: Kitchen Assistant
Location: In person, on-site at Smithereen Farm’s premises in Pembroke, Maine
Reports to: Nadine Biss, Commercial Kitchen Manager
Job Category: Temporary/Seasonal Employee (up to 40 hours/week)
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Employment Dates: April 13 - October 17, 2026
Pay: $22 per hour
Benefits: Six days PTO, including sick and personal
OVERVIEW
Smithereen Farm is seeking a reliable, organized, and hands-on Commercial Kitchen Assistant to support the daily operations of our licensed commercial kitchen during the busy production season. This role works closely with the Commercial Kitchen Manager to carry out food production, maintain kitchen cleanliness and safety, and support value-added processing for Smithereen Farm and partner producers.
The ideal candidate enjoys physical, detail-oriented work, thrives in a collaborative kitchen environment, and is excited to contribute to a farm-based food system rooted in sustainability, creativity, and community.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Food Production & Processing
- Assist with preparation, processing, and packaging of value-added products according to established recipes and production plans.
- Support batch cooking, ingredient prep, labeling, and storage.
- Maintain consistency and quality standards under the direction of the Kitchen Manager.
Kitchen Operations & Sanitation
- Participate in training and follow established kitchen systems and workflows.
- Support daily opening, closing, and cleaning procedures for the commercial kitchen.
- Maintain cleanliness of workstations, equipment, storage areas, and shared spaces.
- Follow food safety, sanitation, and allergen protocols at all times.
Inventory & Supplies
- Assist with inventory tracking of ingredients, packaging, and supplies.
- Help receive, organize, and store deliveries.
- Manage the storeroom, including organization, packaging materials, cleanliness, and readiness for daily fulfillment.
- Flag low supplies or equipment issues to the Kitchen Manager.
Takeaway & Order Support
- Assist with packing online and takeaway orders accurately and efficiently.
- Ensure products are properly labeled, dated, and stored for pickup.
Shared Kitchen Support
- Help prepare the kitchen for use by multiple producers as scheduled.
- Support general organization and reset between users as needed.
- Work collaboratively with kitchen staff, farm staff, and producers.
- Additional tasks as assigned by the Commercial Kitchen Manager.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience working in a commercial kitchen, food production setting, or similar environment preferred
- Interest in local food systems, farming, and value-added production
- Ability to follow recipes, procedures, and food safety standards consistently
- Strong attention to detail and cleanliness
- Ability to lift 50 lbs and stand for extended periods
- Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently and as part of a team
- ServSafe® certification a plus (or willingness to obtain)
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Physically active role involving standing, lifting, repetitive tasks, and temperature variation
- Fast-paced during peak production periods
- Seasonal schedule may include occasional evenings or weekends based on production needs
ABOUT SMITHEREEN FARM
Smithereen Farm is a certified organic farm located in Pembroke, Maine. We’re building an abundant, dynamic, and multi-faceted agroforestry operation, producing healthy food for Washington County and beyond. For more information, visit .
OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GREENHORNS
Smithereen Farm regularly hosts workshops and other events on its premises in collaboration with Greenhorns, a nonprofit devoted to reforming our agricultural system through education and advocacy. For more information about Greenhorns, visit greenhorns.org. Except as expressly provided in this job description, an employee’s participation in Greenhorn's activities and events is entirely voluntary and is not part of any employment expectation. Any such voluntary participation may only occur during non-work hours.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates should apply through theSmithereen Farm 2026 Job Application Google Form (https://forms.gle/Dxc2Em8Mq6WnDmmC7), which requests a resume and cover letter detailing relevant experience. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Questions may be directed to office@smithereenfarm.com.
Pay: $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
