We are excited to offer a brand new position at our newly remodeled local market for the nonprofit ʻĀina Hoʻokupu o Kīlauea (AHK).
ʻĀina Hoʻokupu o Kilauea is a 501c3 nonprofit whose mission is to improve the environmental, social, and economic well-being of the Kilauea and island of Kaua`i community by providing an organization through which we can 1) manage the donation of funds or real estate, 2) engage in cooperative effort and stewardship agreement with governmental agencies and other organizations on projects beneficial to the Kilauea and Kaua`i community, and 3) encourage other constructive activities aimed at protecting agricultural, cultural, historical, and natural resources of the Kilauea and all of Kaua`i areas. AHK is proud to administer the Kilauea Community Agricultural Center (KCAC) - an innovative project focused on increasing and supporting the sustainability of small farming on Kauai.
We are currently looking to fill the position listed below:
KITCHEN PREP ASSISTANT / BAKERY & DELI PRODUCTION COOK
ʻĀina Hoʻokupu o Kīlauea (AHK) is seeking a reliable, community-minded Kitchen Prep Assistant / Bakery & Deli Production Cook to support daily food production at our small local grocery and deli (“Johnny’s”). This is a hands-on kitchen role focused on preparing fresh produce and proteins, baked goods, deli items, and value-added products that highlight Kaua‘i - and Hawai‘i grown ingredients and support our mission of uplifting local agriculture and the health of our ʻāina and community. If you love food, enjoy creative kitchen work, and want to be part of a positive team environment, this role may be a great fit.
About the Role
This position works closely with the Head Chef and Store Manager to prepare daily staples such as focaccia breads and sandwiches, banana bread, cut steaks and fresh fish, and to help produce an expanding line of new value-added items launching in 2026. Training provided. Commitment to consistency, cleanliness, teamwork, and local food values is essential. This is an on-site, non-exempt role based in Kīlauea, Kaua‘i. Both part-time and full-time schedules are available.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
The Kitchen Prep Assistant will:
Bakery & Deli Production
• Make and bake daily focaccia breads, including mixing, seasoning, and baking
• Produce daily banana bread and other baked items
• Assemble focaccia sandwiches and other grab-and-go offerings with strong attention to consistency and quality
• Support development and testing of new 2026 product line items (seasonal dishes, sauces, marinades, value-added products, etc.)
Protein & Produce Prep
• Cut and portion local meats and seafood safely and accurately
• Prep fresh produce, herbs, and ingredients from local farm partners
• Assist with proper labeling, dating, storage, and rotation
Kitchen Operations
• Operate kitchen equipment safely (mixers, slicers, ovens, knives, etc.)
• Maintain a clean, organized, DOH-compliant work environment
• Assist with inventory tracking, stocking, and reducing food waste
• Support deli service during busy hours (as needed)
• Perform other duties as assigned - flexibility is essential in a small kitchen/deli
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with commercial kitchen or bakery operations
• Strong knife skills or willingness to learn
• Comfortable working around raw fish and meat
• Ability to follow recipes consistently and repeatably
• Familiarity with local ingredients and food culture a plus
• Experience with inventory management or value-added food production
• Long-term housing and commitment to north/east shore Kaua‘i
• Understanding of Hawaiian values and culture is beneficial
• Creativity and interest in developing new menu items is a plus
What We’re Looking For
• A team player who loves food and wants to support local agriculture
• Reliable, self-motivated, and able to perform with minimal supervision
• Commitment to AHK’s mission and values
• Strong work ethic and pride in consistent, high-quality production
• Positive attitude and interest in serving the community
Compensation & Benefits
$20/hour short trial period to start, increasing to $23/hr after good fit established and room to grow further with experience, demonstrated skills and track record. Health insurance after 4 consecutive weeks of 20+ hours/week, and employee discounts!
AHK Mission and Values
ʻĀina Hoʻokupu o Kīlauea is a 501(c)3 nonprofit focused on improving the environmental, social, and economic well-being of Kīlauea and the island of Kaua‘i. AHK administers the Kīlauea Community Agricultural Center (KCAC) and supports local farming, Hawaiian cultural values and community resilience through its various projects.
How to Apply
Please send a short introduction and your resume to: info@ainahookupuokilauea.org
Or stop by the store to introduce yourself.
AHK is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of qualifications. AHK policy prohibits unlawful discrimination in any employment decision based on pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, race, religious creed, color, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, age, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law or ordinance or regulation. Submission of your application is not an offer of employment or an employment contract.
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.