Special Instructions to Applicants: All interested applicants should attach a resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.
About Rice:
Boasting a 300-acre, tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report . Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio and a residential college system that supports students intellectually, emotionally, and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lecture series, courses, and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.
Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff, and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. These values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice’s culture. They are reflected in the way we treat each other and in the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name — RICE — Responsibility, Integrity, Community, and Excellence.
Position Summary:
The Dishwasher/Steward is responsible for maintaining cleanliness, sanitation, and operational efficiency in Rice University dining facilities. This role ensures that all kitchenware, service equipment, and work areas comply with university standards, health department regulations, and food safety guidelines. The position requires the proper operation of dishwashing machines and chemical systems, strict adherence to sanitation protocols, and active support of overall kitchen operations.
Ideal Candidate Statement:
The ideal candidate is a reliable, detail-oriented team player committed to cleanliness, sanitation, and safety in a fast-paced kitchen environment. They efficiently operate dishwashing equipment, maintain organized work areas, and ensure all kitchen tools are properly cleaned and ready for use. With a strong work ethic, punctuality, and the ability to handle physical tasks, they contribute to a clean, safe, and efficient dining operation.
Workplace Requirements:
On-campus position: This position is exclusively on-site, requiring all duties to be performed in person at the designated work location at Rice University. Per Rice policy 440 , work arrangements may be subject to change.
Physical Demands: LIGHT WORK: Exert up to 25 lbs. of force occasionally. Requires walking or standing for up to 8 hours per day. Other physical requirements include manual dexterity and the ability to see, hear, reach, climb, and balance.
Other Requirements: Must be able to detect scents and discern flavors.
Environment: The work environment is a commercial kitchen and includes exposure to extreme temperatures. Work hazards include exposure to chemicals, wet floors, dangerous equipment (fryers, stoves, ovens, knives, slicers, etc.), and hot oil, steam, and water.
Essential On-Campus: This role is classified as an Essential On-Campus Position, requiring on-site presence to effectively carry out its vital functions. During emergencies or crises, the employee is required to report to campus as directed to ensure continuity of critical operations and must remain accessible to leadership to fulfill responsibilities necessary for maintaining institutional functions.
Proposed Hiring Range: $18.00 - $21.57 hourly, contingent upon qualifications and experience.
*Non-Exempt (hourly) positions under FLSA are eligible for overtime.
Minimum Requirements:
- High School Diploma
- 0-1 year of related culinary experience
- In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis, may be substituted.
- Certified Food Handler's Permit (Houston) or equivalent certification (ServSafe).
- Ability to operate or learn commercial dishwashing equipment.
- Basic understanding of sanitation principles and chemical safety (Ecolab experience preferred).
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness and safety.
- Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs., and perform repetitive tasks.
Preferred Attributes:
- Reliability and punctuality
- Team collaboration
- Attention to sanitation standards
- Safety awareness
- Efficiency and time management
Preferences:
- Previous experience in food service, stewarding, or custodial roles.
- Familiarity with commercial kitchen operations and dishwashing systems.
- Knowledge of HACCP and food safety standards.
Essential Functions:
Dishwashing & Sanitation
- Operate commercial dishwashing machines in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines and safety standards.
- Properly sort, rinse, wash, and sanitize dishes, glassware, utensils, pots, and pans.
- Monitor chemical levels, water temperature, and machine performance to ensure proper sanitation.
- Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of dishwashing machines and promptly report any malfunctions.
Stewarding Duties
- Keep the dish room, pot-washing area, and storage spaces organized and clean.
- Ensure that all kitchen equipment and service items are adequately stocked, sanitized, and stored correctly.
- Assist with managing the inventory of cleaning supplies, chemicals, and stewarding equipment.
- Support the kitchen staff by providing clean utensils and equipment as needed.
Kitchen Cleaning & Sanitation
- Clean and sanitize food preparation areas, including countertops, cutting surfaces, sinks, and equipment.
- Sweep, mop, and maintain floors in accordance with safety and sanitation standards.
- Dispose of trash, recycling, and compost properly, following established waste disposal procedures.
- Adhere to all chemical safety guidelines, including proper handling, dilution, labeling, and storage.
Compliance & Safety
- Follow Rice University policies, OSHA standards, and local health department regulations.
- Always use personal protective equipment (PPE) while handling chemicals and performing cleaning activities.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and hazard-free workplace.
- Participate in food safety and sanitation training programs.
Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits
Rice Mission and Values : Mission and Values | Rice University
Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please get in touch with Rice University’s Human Resources Office via email at [email protected] for support.
If you have any additional questions, please email us at [email protected] . Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University.
