1

Food Pantry Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Culinary Supervisor

Fairport, NY

$21.75 - $22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bring your passion for food to Wegmans As a culinary professional at Wegmans, you'll have the ... Our store is your pantry--with access to the world's best ingredients as you create innovative ...

Cook

Fairport, NY

$17.50 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bring your passion for food to Wegmans As a culinary professional at Wegmans, you'll have the ... Our store is your pantry--with access to the world's best ingredients as you create innovative ...

Sushi Cook

Greece, NY

$17.50 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bring your passion for food to Wegmans As a culinary professional at Wegmans, you'll have the ... Our store is your pantry--with access to the world's best ingredients as you create innovative ...

Program Manager

Rochester, NY · On-site

$29 - $32/hr

... food and clothing pantry, street outreach, and support for minor victims of commercial sexual ... This position supervises and supports program staff (Assistant Manager, Case Managers, Life Skills ...

Program Manager

Rochester, NY · On-site

$29 - $32/hr

... food and clothing pantry, street outreach, and support for minor victims of commercial sexual ... This position supervises and supports program staff (Assistant Manager, Case Managers, Life Skills ...

Program Manager

Rochester, NY · On-site

$29 - $32/hr

... food and clothing pantry, street outreach, and support for minor victims of commercial sexual ... This position supervises and supports program staff (Assistant Manager, Case Managers, Life Skills ...

Food Pantry Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$11

$16

$22

How much do food pantry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for food pantry assistant in Rochester, NY is $16.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food pantry assistant?

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 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.

Can you work at a food pantry?

Yes, a Food Pantry Assistant can work at a food pantry, typically involving tasks such as organizing supplies, assisting clients, and maintaining the facility. These roles often require good communication skills, physical stamina, and sometimes background checks or training in food safety. Scheduling can vary, with part-time or full-time shifts depending on the organization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Pantry jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Food Pantry jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Food Pantry Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Food Pantry Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Pantry Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Internship, 57% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,295 per year, or $17 per hour.

$0.01/hr

Internship

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Internship Overview

The Housing & Residence Life EOP Internship is a structured experiential learning opportunity designed to support student development, career readiness, and engagement consistent with SUNY Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) guidelines. This internship integrates supervised work experience with clearly defined learning outcomes.
 

Time Commitment & Hour Requirements

- Weekly Hours: 10–15 hours per week

- Total Hours: Approximately 150–180 hours per semester (or aligned with SUNY EOP/academic credit requirements)

- Work schedule will be established in collaboration with the supervisor.
 

Primary Responsibilities

- Answer telephones, relay housing information, and take messages

- Organize and distribute mail

- Package and assist with Food Pantry orders

- Filing and records management

- Copying, scanning, and faxing

- Data entry

- Deliveries and office support tasks

- Additional assignments as needed
 

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate effective professional communication skills.

2. Apply time management and organizational skills.

3. Develop customer service skills supporting diverse students.

4. Gain administrative and technical office skills.

5. Demonstrate confidentiality and ethical behavior.

6. Explore career interests related to student services.

7. Demonstrate problem solving and initiative.

Supervision & Evaluation

- Regular supervision and feedback will be provided.

- Mid-semester and final evaluations will be conducted.

- Student may complete a reflection aligned with EOP expectations.
 

- Must be an EOP student

- Maintain good judicial standing

- Ability to maintain confidentiality

- Strong time management skills