Amherst College — Mt Vernon, NY
Amherst College is a prestigious liberal arts institution located in Amherst, Massachusetts, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and inclusivity. As a highly selective college, Amherst has made significant strides in diversifying its student body by embracing racial, socio-economic, and geographic variances. This dedication extends beyond students to foster a diverse and inclusive community among faculty, administration, and staff. Amherst College offers a collaborative, respectful, and vibrant educational environment that empowers its community members to thrive both personally and professionally.
The Food Service Attendant (Retail) position at Amherst College is a full-time, academic-year role based at the Amherst campus. The position is set to begin in mid-July 2026, transitioning into an academic-year schedule in 2027. This opportunity provides an hourly wage ranging from $19.98 to $20.25, with compensation tailored based on educational background, training, experience, tenure status, and other nondiscriminatory factors. Amherst College also offers an attractive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of its staff and their families.
In this role, the Food Service Attendant plays an essential part in delivering an excellent artisan craft food and beverage experience within the college’s retail dining spaces. Reporting to cafe supervision, you'll be responsible for preparing and producing a wide range of staple menu items, including specialty coffee drinks, teas, pastries, and grab-and-go offerings. The role is highly customer-focused, requiring courteous engagement with students, faculty, staff, and visitors while maintaining a welcoming, inclusive, and energetic cafe atmosphere.
Daily responsibilities involve following precise recipes and presentation standards to ensure quality and consistency. Attention to food safety protocols and cleanliness guidelines is mandatory to uphold the college’s health and safety standards. Operating specialized café equipment such as espresso machines, grinders, blenders, and brewers is part of the role, with the need to monitor maintenance needs proactively.
Amherst College emphasizes food safety and allergen awareness, requiring all Dining Services employees to understand and implement established measures to provide safe dining. The Food Service Attendant supports individuals with food allergies through appropriate handling, communication, and service procedures, contributing to a safe and positive dining environment for the entire community.
Adaptability, teamwork, and a positive attitude are critical, as the Food Service Attendant works under dynamic conditions with varying schedules and shifting assignments based on college needs. The position also involves collaboration with diverse staff members and participation in the college’s ongoing efforts to nurture a respectful and inclusive workplace culture. This role provides an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in professional growth within food service, hospitality, or institutional dining operations, offering meaningful interaction within a community committed to excellence and diversity.