Steward (Dishwasher)

Role Overview

The Steward (Dishwasher) at The Cooper plays a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness, sanitation, and organization of kitchen and food preparation zones. This position supports the culinary team by ensuring all pots, pans, utensils, tableware, and kitchen equipment are cleaned, stored, and sanitized correctly. The Steward helps sustain a safe, efficient, and compliant working environment that reflects BHC's service standards and culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure guests receive a welcoming experience by facilitating smooth kitchen operations behind the scenes.
• Keep workstations orderly, clean, and safe in line with restaurant standards of excellence.
• Identify areas for operational improvement and suggest positive adjustments.
• Demonstrate professionalism, respect, teamwork, patience, compassion, and initiative consistently.
• Adhere strictly to all programs, procedures, specifications, and training requirements.
• Communicate and cooperate effectively with team members and partners to represent the restaurant professionally.
• Clean, transport, and appropriately store all pots, pans, utensils, and tableware.
• Use dishwashers or designated sinks to wash soiled kitchenware, including dishes and equipment.
• Apply cleaning chemicals safely according to OSHA and safety regulations while sanitizing kitchen prep areas, equipment, and storage.
• Set up and replenish stewarding stations with necessary supplies and equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness of food service carts, walk-in coolers, freezers, service elevators, and loading docks.
• Assist culinary team with sanitation tasks, special requests, and end-of-shift cleanups.
• Complete required daily and after-hours cleaning and maintenance of kitchen areas and equipment.
• Report any shortages, maintenance issues, or safety hazards promptly to supervisors.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Effective communication skills and ability to work well in a team environment.
• Prior experience in restaurants or hospitality is advantageous but not mandatory.
• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
• Flexible availability to work diverse shifts including weekends and holidays.
• Knowledge of safe handling protocols for kitchen and service equipment.
• Capability to perform efficiently in a high-paced, dynamic working environment and adapt to shifting priorities.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand and work on feet for extended periods, potentially over eight hours.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, squat, and stretch to fulfill cleaning and storage responsibilities.
• Regularly lift items up to 30 pounds; occasionally lift up to 50 pounds; occasionally push or pull weights up to 250 pounds.
• Work in extreme temperature conditions such as freezers at -10°F and kitchens reaching +110°F.
• Manoeuvre carts and equipment weighing as much as 250 pounds.
• Possess manual dexterity and fine motor skills to operate equipment and handle small items.
• Move swiftly and safely throughout the workspace, including climbing stairs and navigating busy areas.
• Tolerate high noise levels requiring raised vocal communication.
• Good vision and hearing essential for safety, task accuracy, and effective communication.

Reasonable accommodations can be provided to assist individuals with disabilities in performing essential job duties.

Equal Employment Opportunity

BHC is an equal opportunity employer. Hiring decisions are grounded on merit and business necessity without discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, pregnancy, citizenship, origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, veteran status, political views, genetics, or any other protected characteristic. The company participates in E-Verify.