About Company
Arizmendi Bakery (Rockridge) is a beloved worker-owned cooperative renowned for its artisan breads, delectable pastries, and gourmet pizzas, proudly serving the vibrant community of Oakland, California. As a cooperative, we are founded on principles of shared ownership, democratic decision-making, and fostering a supportive, inclusive, and empowering work environment where every member’s voice is heard and valued. Our commitment extends beyond crafting delicious, high-quality food from locally sourced ingredients; we strive to make a positive impact on our community and offer meaningful, stable employment opportunities. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional culinary experiences to our customers, whether through our bustling retail storefront or our expanding catering services for local businesses and events.
Job Description
Arizmendi Bakery (Rockridge) is actively seeking a dedicated, energetic, and detail-oriented Catering Porter to become a vital part of our esteemed worker-owned cooperative team. This is a fantastic opportunity for an individual who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and is passionate about contributing to a community-focused business with a strong emphasis on quality and service. As a Catering Porter, you will play a critical role in ensuring the seamless and successful execution of our diverse catering orders, from initial preparation and meticulous packaging to efficient delivery and professional setup at various client locations. We warmly welcome applications from foreign nationals who are legally authorized to work in the United States, recognizing that diverse perspectives and backgrounds significantly enrich our cooperative culture and collective strength. While prior experience in a catering or food service setting is certainly advantageous, we are genuinely keen to invest in and train highly motivated individuals who demonstrate a strong work ethic, exceptional reliability, and a genuine commitment to collaborative teamwork. This demanding yet rewarding role requires a good level of physical stamina, keen attention to detail, and an unfailingly positive attitude, as you will be an integral part of our daily operations, directly influencing our customers’ satisfaction and the overall success of our catering ventures. Join us at Arizmendi Bakery (Rockridge) and become part of a team where your contributions are not just valued, but where you also have a direct say in the business’s direction and success.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with the precise preparation, portioning, and meticulous packaging of all catering orders, ensuring adherence to high-quality standards and specific client requests.
- Efficiently load and unload catering supplies, food items, and specialized equipment onto delivery vehicles with care and attention to detail.
- Safely and punctually transport catering orders to various client locations across the Rockridge/Oakland area, maintaining food integrity.
- Provide hands-on assistance with the professional setup and organized breakdown of food and beverage stations at event venues, following event plans.
- Maintain impeccable cleanliness and organization of all catering equipment, storage areas, and delivery vehicles, adhering to strict hygiene protocols.
- Perform regular inventory checks for catering supplies and assist with restocking and organizing as needed to ensure smooth operations.
- Strictly adhere to all local, state, and federal food safety and sanitation guidelines and regulations to ensure public health and safety.
- Communicate clearly, effectively, and professionally with team members, kitchen staff, and clients to ensure smooth operations and exceptional customer satisfaction.
- Represent Arizmendi Bakery (Rockridge) with the utmost professionalism, a positive demeanor, and a customer-focused attitude at all times.
- Provide flexible support for other bakery and catering operations as directed by the team lead or management, demonstrating adaptability.
Required Skills
- Ability to lift and safely carry heavy items (up to 50 lbs) regularly and perform physical tasks required for the role.
- Possess strong organizational skills and an acute attention to detail, especially under pressure.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively, efficiently, and calmly in a fast-paced, dynamic, and often demanding environment.
- Reliable and punctual, with a proven strong work ethic and a commitment to attendance.
- Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills, capable of interacting positively with colleagues and clients.
- A basic understanding of, and commitment to, food safety and sanitation practices.
- Legal authorization to work in the United States.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience (6+ months) in a catering, food service, or hospitality role.
- Possession of a valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
- Familiarity with the Rockridge/Oakland area and local traffic patterns.
- Enthusiasm for cooperative business models and active community engagement.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage with clear opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the cooperative.
- Unique worker-ownership opportunities after a qualifying period, including profit-sharing and direct participation in democratic decision-making.
- Comprehensive health benefits package (medical, dental, vision) provided for all full-time employees.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and paid holiday benefits.
- Significant employee discount on all Arizmendi Bakery products.
- A supportive, collaborative, inclusive, and empowering work environment where contributions are genuinely valued.
- Access to ongoing opportunities for skill development, cross-training, and continuous learning.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply by clicking the application link below. Please ensure you prepare a concise cover letter outlining your genuine interest in this Catering Porter role and how your unique skills and experiences align with our cooperative values, along with your updated resume. We are eager to review your application and potentially welcome you to the dynamic and rewarding Arizmendi Bakery (Rockridge) family.