1

Pantry Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Apply Early

next page

Showing results 1-20

Pantry Assistant information

See salary details

$8

$19

$56

How much do pantry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for pantry assistant in the United States is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Pantry Assistant, you need basic food handling knowledge, organizational skills, and often a food safety certification. Familiarity with inventory management systems, kitchen equipment, and proper storage techniques is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication are valuable soft skills for maintaining an efficient and hygienic pantry environment. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure food safety, prevent waste, and support smooth kitchen operations.

What are the most common challenges faced by Pantry Assistants in a busy kitchen environment?

Pantry Assistants often work in fast-paced settings where multitasking and time management are crucial. One common challenge is maintaining organization and cleanliness while handling multiple requests from chefs and kitchen staff, especially during peak service hours. Additionally, Pantry Assistants need to ensure that food items are properly stored and rotated to meet food safety standards. Building effective communication with team members helps to quickly address any shortages or special dietary requests, which is key to smooth kitchen operations.

What does a Pantry Assistant do?

A Pantry Assistant is responsible for supporting kitchen operations by organizing, stocking, and maintaining pantry supplies. They help ensure that ingredients and food items are readily available for chefs and kitchen staff. Duties may include unpacking deliveries, rotating stock to maintain freshness, maintaining cleanliness, and sometimes assisting with basic food preparation. Pantry Assistants play an important role in keeping the kitchen running smoothly and efficiently. Attention to detail and good organizational skills are essential for this position.

What is the difference between Pantry Assistant vs Kitchen Porter?

AspectPantry AssistantKitchen Porter
ResponsibilitiesPreparing ingredients, organizing pantry, assisting with food prepCleaning dishes, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, basic food prep
Required SkillsBasic food handling, organization skillsCleaning, basic kitchen tasks
Work EnvironmentFood storage areas, prep stationsKitchen, dishwashing areas
CertificationsFood safety knowledge often preferredNone typically required

Both roles support kitchen operations but differ mainly in responsibilities. The Pantry Assistant focuses on food storage and prep assistance, while the Kitchen Porter handles cleaning and dishwashing. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right role based on skills and interests.

More about Pantry Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Pantry Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Pantry Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pantry jobs? The most popular types of Pantry jobs are:
What states have the most Pantry Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Pantry Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Pantry Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pantry Assistant jobs are:
Food Pantry Assistant

$11.68 - $15.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 351 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

482nd of 690 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Position Summary
The Salvation Army Austin Corps is "doing the most good" by providing holistic, person-centered services to individuals and families in need. In addition to worship services and pastoral care, services include short and long-term case management; food, clothing, utility, rent, and housing support; and connections to community partners.
The Food Shelf Assistant supports food pantry operations by distributing food, managing inventory, handling donations, and maintaining cleanliness. The Assistant ensures accurate record-keeping, compliance with health standards, and proper storage of all donations while providing excellent customer service to participants.
Wage: $11.68 to $15.50 per hour, 20 hours a week
409 First Ave NE, Austin, MN 55912
Essential Functions (approximate time spent)
  • Food Distribution (40%): Distribute food boxes to participants while maintaining a high level of customer service.
  • Inventory Management (30%): Maintain up-to-date, accurate records of incoming and outgoing food and supplies for the pantry.
  • Donation Handling (10%): Drive, load, and unload food and other in-kind donations. (10%)
  • Pantry Maintenance (10%): Maintain the cleanliness of the pantry and ensure compliance with health department and food bank standards.
  • Stocking and Storage (10%): Ensure food donations and related gifts-in-kind are processed, stored, stocked, and rotated appropriately.

Education and Experience
  • High School diploma or equivalent required.
  • Previous experience in food pantry or food service.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license, possess or be able to obtain, within 90 days, a DOT Medical Examiners Certificate, and meet MVR requirements.
  • Pass background checks.

Competencies
  • Knowledge of safe food handling.
  • Flexible interpersonal and communication skills.
  • High level of honor in dealing with confidential information.
  • Works with integrity, valuing honesty and diligence.

Working Conditions
  • Prolonged standing, walking, bending, stooping, turning, stretching, reaching, and lifting.
  • Must be able to regularly move/lift 50 pounds.
  • Business casual environment; not eligible for a remote-friendly work environment.
  • Must be able to communicate clearly with colleagues, volunteers, and participants.

Supervisory Responsibilities
None.
Driving/Travel Requirements
Drive agency vehicles, including a box truck, locally to occasionally transport food and other in-kind donations.
Other Duties
All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree to support its religious mission.
This job description is not all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions of the position. A supervisor may assign other duties, responsibilities, and tasks.
The Salvation Army Mission
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.
Fair Chance Hire
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.

What Salvation Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Salvation Army logo

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