Part-time Dining Experience Associate
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 18, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 14, 2026.
Job Summary
RISD Dining is actively seeking part-time Dining Experience Associates (DEA) to join its in-house dining, catering, and markets and vending program. Be a part of the group that delivers exceptional hospitality by supporting local farms through seasonally-inspired menus, and utilizing the strengths of its staff to provide the absolute best in culinary artistry to the greater community.
RISD DEA's serve customers in a professional and courteous manner. They must be able to work independently and efficiently to set up (open) and break down (close) various campus locations according to the venue's specific requirements, and have the flexibility to work at various locations on campus as directed by the supervisor in order to meet department-wide needs. This role also reconciles daily cash receipts and transactions with credit/debit cards and ensures the cleanliness of the assigned location.
Starting rate for this position is $23.00/hr. RISD also offers excellent benefits, which includes but is not limited to:
- Four (4) weeks of paid vacation
- Personal and sick time
- Robust medical, dental, and vision benefits
- Fully vested 403(b) retirement contributions after meeting eligibility requirements
- Paid Parental Leave
- Education Assistance and Tuition Remission programs
- 14 paid holidays
- RIPTA Transportation to and from work
- Free parking
- Meals at every shift
Essential Functions:
In support of RISD Dining's mission and values, the incumbent may be called upon to perform any one or a combination of the following functions listed below:
Sets up and opens any Dining location campus-wide. Ability to move from one auxiliary operation to another on a daily basis, as needed by the department, ensuring that all food items and supplies are available and presented for the day's business. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Preparation of condiment and coffee station(s), brewing appropriate coffee amounts and selections as predetermined by each location and checking/filling all condiments from cups/lids to soy milk/honey.
- Posting menus and prices and familiarization with ingredients in each menu item
- Receiving, stocking and properly displaying items pertaining to that operation.
Waits on a heavy volume of customers in a timely and courteous manner, representing RISD and the Dining department professionally and knowledgeably to a diverse clientele including students, faculty, staff, museum visitors and the general public. Adheres to established customer service goals and standards.
Follows all opening and closing procedures for proper cash handling. This includes maintaining cashier's log and verifying cash drawer prior to and at the end of each shift and proving out daily receipts.
Follows specific procedures for ordering and receiving products at each location to maintain desired inventory levels.
Keeps all areas clean and restocked. Ensures that all front-of-house areas are properly maintained by wiping, washing, sweeping and picking up debris.
Ensures that all health code procedures are followed. This includes but is not limited to: temperature management, personal hygiene and sanitation.
Required Knowledge/Skills/Experience:
- One to three years of progressively responsible experience, in restaurant, college or café-style food service is preferred.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Prior cash handling experience.
- High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Valued but not required skills and experience:
Rhode Island sanitation/ServSafe certification.
Union:
No
Work Schedule:
Part-time, 25 hours/week. Coverage is seven days per week (two days off) while school is in session and can include daytime, evening, and weekend hours.
All Dining Services staff is considered essential personnel to the school and is therefore required to attend work even when the school is closed.
Employment Status:
Regular, Full-Time
Documents Needed to Apply:
Resume (required)
Cover letter (preferred)
Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please upload all required documents.
The successful candidate will be required to meet our pre-employment background screening requirements.
RISD recognizes inclusion and belonging as fundamental to its learning and working community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experience has prepared them to contribute to this community and to our commitment to excellence. RISD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.
For internal use only - Job Family:
Dining - Operations