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Food Pantry Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Salvation Army

Food Pantry Assistant

Cheboygan, MI · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

The Food Pantry Assistant supports the functioning of the pantry by stocking pantry storage areas, packing food orders for clients, maintaining cleanliness of all storage areas and equipment, and ...

YMCA

Food Pantry - Assistant

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The Food Pantry Assistant is responsible for transporting food and supplies to and from the food pantry, ensuring timely and safe delivery to clients and partner agencies. This position plays a key ...

The Salvation Army

Food Pantry Assistant

Cheboygan, MI

$14 - $16.75/hr

The Food Pantry Assistant supports the functioning of the pantry by stocking pantry storage areas, packing food orders for clients, maintaining cleanliness of all storage areas and equipment, and ...

The Salvation Army

Food Pantry Assistant

Austin, MN · On-site

$11.68 - $15.50/hr

The Food Shelf Assistant supports food pantry operations by distributing food, managing inventory, handling donations, and maintaining cleanliness. The Assistant ensures accurate record-keeping ...

The Salvation Army

Food Pantry Assistant

Austin, MN · On-site

$11.68 - $15.50/hr

The Food Shelf Assistant supports food pantry operations by distributing food, managing inventory, handling donations, and maintaining cleanliness. The Assistant ensures accurate record-keeping ...

Union County College

Pantry Assistant

Cranford, NJ · On-site

$18/hr

Characteristics, Duties, and Responsibilities • Assist with the daily operation of the food pantry locations on the Cranford, Plainfield and Elizabeth campuses. • Responsible for checking ...

BronxWorks

Food Pantry Assistant - Req 5084

Bronx, NY · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Be able to travel between multiple Food Pantry sites to assist with distribution. * Provide general outreach and promotion for program (outdoor and indoor) * Provide office support including clerical ...

The Salvation Army

Be Seen First

Food Pantry Aid

Toledo, OH · On-site

$15/hr

Manage inventory of items needed and communicate to the Social Service Caseworker. * Assist with keeping the food pantry and waiting room area clean. * Assist beneficiaries with the food pantry ...

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Food Pantry Assistant information

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$11

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$22

How much do food pantry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for food pantry assistant in the United States is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Food Pantry Assistants face during busy distribution periods, and how can they effectively manage them?

During peak distribution times, Food Pantry Assistants often encounter challenges such as long lines, inventory shortages, and ensuring fair distribution to all clients. Effective communication, organizational skills, and teamwork are essential for managing these situations smoothly. Proactively restocking shelves, coordinating with volunteers, and maintaining a positive, solution-oriented attitude help ensure that operations run efficiently and clients feel supported.

What is the difference between Food Pantry Assistant vs Food Bank Worker?

AspectFood Pantry AssistantFood Bank Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require food safety trainingHigh school diploma; may require certifications in food handling or safety
Work EnvironmentCommunity food pantries, local charitiesRegional food banks, distribution centers
Employer & IndustryNonprofit organizations, community service providersFood banks, large charitable organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Food Pantry Assistant and a Food Bank Worker lies in their work environment and scope. Food Pantry Assistants typically work directly in community-based food pantries, helping distribute food to individuals and families. Food Bank Workers operate in larger distribution centers, managing inventory and coordinating food distribution on a broader scale. Both roles require similar credentials and serve the nonprofit food assistance industry, but their daily tasks and work settings differ.

What are Food Pantry Assistants?

Food Pantry Assistants are individuals who help manage the daily operations of a food pantry. Their responsibilities typically include sorting and organizing food donations, assisting clients with selecting food items, maintaining inventory, and ensuring a clean and safe environment. They may also help with record-keeping and provide information about additional community resources. Food Pantry Assistants play a vital role in supporting food security for individuals and families in need.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Pantry Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Pantry Assistant, you need basic organizational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to community service, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with inventory management systems, food safety protocols, and occasionally point-of-sale software is beneficial. Strong interpersonal skills, reliability, and a positive attitude help in serving diverse clients and collaborating with volunteers. These abilities ensure efficient food distribution, safe operations, and a welcoming environment for those in need.
What cities are hiring for Food Pantry Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Food Pantry Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Pantry jobs? The most popular types of Food Pantry jobs are:
What states have the most Food Pantry Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Pantry Assistant jobs include:
Food Pantry Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Pantry Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,772 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Food Pantry Assistant

Food Pantry Assistant

The Salvation Army

Cheboygan, MI • On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Salvation Army rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 358 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

549th of 759 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

At The Salvation Army our employees are the heartbeat of our mission. We foster a community of passionate people dedicated to changing lives and bringing hope to those who need it most.

Position Summary: The Food Pantry Assistant supports the functioning of the pantry by stocking pantry storage areas, packing food orders for clients, maintaining cleanliness of all storage areas and equipment, and assisting with the acquisition of food items.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Ensures pantry area is fully stocked using supplies from storage areas, donation drop offs, etc.
  • Unloads, sorts, and stores food orders, ensuring items are well organized and stored in designated areas other duties as assigned
  • Maintains proper inventory levels and records of pantry items
  • Utilizes food safety guidelines when handling food items, determines shelf life of products and repacks items; disposes of outdated items as necessary; records refrigerator and freezer temperatures
  • Provides food pantry recipients with food orders based on their household size that meet their dietary needs
  • Assists recipients with bringing food items to vehicles as requested
  • Ensures general upkeep and cleanliness of pantry area by sweeping, wiping surfaces, removing trash, and breaking down boxes
  • Provides guidance to food pantry volunteers as requested
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Education/Experience:

  • High School Diploma / GED preferred, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities:

  • Basic math skills
  • Basic reading skills
  • Learn and adhere to The Salvation Army Social Services Code of Ethics
  • Understand and adhere to professional boundaries within and outside of the organization
  • Maintain client confidentiality and obtain appropriate releases of information

Computer Skills:

  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365
  • Basic computer skills
  • Willingness to learn new software as needed

Certificates and Licenses:

  • Complete Safe From Harm training, and keep current as needed

Part Time (20 hours per week)

The Salvation Army offers the following benefits:

  • Health Care Benefits which include:
    • AFLAC
    • Voluntary life insurance benefits
  • Pension contributions (currently 6.0% of your earnings) begin the first quarter after 1 year of employment.
    • Vesting starts after three years of employment, 100% vested after five years of employment
  • The Salvation Army also offers a 403(b) voluntary retirement savings plan in which you may participate immediately, with approved vendors. There is currently no organizational match for 403(b) contributions.
  • Employee Discounts
  • Paid Time Off which includes:
    • Sick days begin accruing the first of the month following 30 days of employment and you may begin to use accrued sick days once available.
      • Up to (6) earned sick days per year may be used as discretionary days.
    • Vacation begins accruing the first of the month after one full calendar month after employment begins, and you may begin to use vacation days after (90) days of employment.
      • The accrual rate is based upon years of service and approved hours worked.
    • You will receive up to 2 personal days per year based on date of hire.
    • Birthday off with pay.
    • Paid holidays are effective immediately

The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.

Mission Statement:

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

What Salvation Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

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