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Cook/ Line Cook

REPORTS TO: BOH Manager

LOCATION: The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano, CA

POSITION TYPE: Part-Time

TRAVEL: (No travel)

JOB SUMMARY:

A Cook, or Line Cook, is responsible for preparing ingredients at an establishment that serves food, processing customer orders, producing meals and cleaning their workspace throughout the day to follow health and safety guidelines. Cooks follow recipes consistently, make adjustments based on customer requests, communicate with wait staff and prepare garnishes to make an attractive presentation for each meal. The incumbent is responsible to consistently produce quality food according to established company and industry guidelines, while demonstrating exceptional customer service skills and continually looking for ways to enhance the customer’s overall experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent is responsible for:
- Assisting in the daily kitchen operations of the restaurant to include, receiving food orders, food preparation, menu preparation, testing recipes, techniques for food preparation and participating in monthly inventory counts
- Assisting with receiving food orders from suppliers and verify the items received against the invoice, noting any discrepancies. Inspecting the quality of items being received, noting any problems with temperature or freshness. Notifying the Executive Chef or Chef de Cuisine of items missing from shipment, items received in error or quality concerns. Making sure the items are stored in the assigned area and rotate existing inventory as needed.
- At the beginning of each shift, reviewing the line checklist and assisting with pulling or preparing items, as needed. Checking sauces and all ingredients for integrity. Notifying the Executive Chef or Chef de Cuisine of any specific concerns.
- Consistently prepare high quality food products according to established food industry regulations and company policies and procedures, paying specific attention to preparation procedures and presentation standards. In addition to working on the line as scheduled, provide support to all members of the kitchen staff, as needed.
- As directed by the Executive Chef or Chef de Cuisine, monitoring service levels, customer satisfaction and adherence to company policies and procedures. Supporting cost control efforts by anticipating customer volume based on current reservations and prior history (month, day of week, holiday weekends, etc.,) and making certain the appropriate amount of food is prepped.
- Maintaining ongoing communication with the kitchen staff to clearly communicate information or specific requirements for any scheduled events.
- Maintaining a safe working environment for guests and employees by adhering to established food industry regulations and company policies and procedures. Making sure that stations are wiped down as time allows, watch for spills on the floor, etc. When working with temperature sensitive items, such as poultry, seafood and eggs place the items in ice to maintain the appropriate temperature. Actively participate in the monthly safety meetings.
- At the end of the shift overseeing and assisting with storing food items and cleaning the kitchen. Ensuring all items are properly labeled and dated. Pulling proteins from the freezer for next day service.
- Participating in the monthly physical inventory counts at the venue.
- Assisting the Executive Chef and Chef de Cuisine in developing menu items for the restaurant or special events.
- Providing support at other venues for special events

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Qualifications:

Must have exceptional organizational skills
Must possess attention to detail
Serve Safe Certificate

Language Skills:

Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers and the general public.
Ability to write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals.
Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

Cooking: 2 years (Required)
Restaurant: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

Food Handler Certification (Required)

Restaurant type:

Café
Fast casual restaurant

WORK LOCATION:

In person. Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

COMPENSATION: $18.51 – $19.10 per hour

SCHEDULE:

Shift:
- Day shift
Weekly day range:
- Weekend availability

Email resumes and cover letter to [email protected] with “Line Cook Application” as the email subject.

PRODUCE STOCKER

REPORTS TO: FARM STAND and PRODUCE MANAGER

LOCATION: SJC

POSITION TYPE: SEASONAL, PT, FT

TRAVEL: N/A

COMP: $17-$19

JOB SUMMARY: As a Produce Stocker, you will play an integral role in creating a positive and memorable experience for our Farm Stand customers. As a blend of Front of House and Back of House, you will be responsible for maintaining an abundant, fresh, and organized shopping environment for our customers. In this role, you will have a full understanding of the importance of shopping and eating local, organic, and seasonal produce, as well as, the importance of providing a frictionless hospitality experience and positive first impression for our community. This individual will typically be responsible for stocking and merchandising produce in the Farm Stand as well as general support in our warehouse (the “Barn”). This includes the above, as well as, prepping, culling, lifting, moving, transporting, and coordinating produce across the farm. There may also be times when cashiering support is needed during busy periods or relieving others for breaks. Ability to work a flexible schedule-Weekends must be open

DESIRED – BUT NOT REQUIRED – EXPERIENCE:

Grocery store produce department; Farmers markets; Produce farming; Kitchen or food-service; Other demonstrable and relatable experience; Bilingual (Spanish)

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience: A minimum of 2 years retail sales, service or related customer facing experience
Skills: Positive attitude, maturity, ability to upsell, great verbal and written communication, organized, greets guests genuinely and warmly, work with a sense of urgency, and professionalism.
License or Certification: Valid Driver’s License, Food Handlers (Preferred),
Specialized Skills: Email, Slack, Point of Sales
Physical Requirements: Ability to safely lift moderately heavy equipment and boxes (a minimum of 35 lbs.) and operate equipment within safety standards
Weekend Availability: Must be able to work weekends

COMMITMENTS & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Willingness to uphold our company values
Possesses the ability to collaborate and make decisions with teammates
Thrives in an agile and emergent environment
Takes personal responsibility and possesses a curious mindset
Takes initiative to proactively communicate
Willingness to uphold our ongoing efforts toward diversity, equality, and inclusion
Ensures a safe workplace and addresses safety issues as they arise
Maintain a professional work environment that fosters a collaborative team spirit with respect for each individual

Email resume to [email protected]

Server

Location: The Ecology Center

Job Type: Part-Time | Seasonal | Temporary

Compensation: $18/hour + tips

Expected Hours: 15–30 hours/week

Shifts Available:

Evening (Wednesday–Saturday)
Daytime brunch (Saturday–Sunday)

About Us

The Ecology Center is a nonprofit Regenerative Organic™ Farm and cultural hub in San Juan Capistrano. We host seasonal meals, community events, and workshops rooted in sustainable food systems, local agriculture, and shared connection. Our Campesino Café is the heart of our food experience—serving fresh, farm-sourced meals in a vibrant, outdoor setting.

Position Overview

We are seeking a warm, reliable Server to join our team at Campesino Café. You’ll play a vital role in delivering meaningful, joyful dining experiences to our guests—whether during an intimate farm dinner or a bustling weekend brunch. This is an ideal role for someone who enjoys nature, community, and intentional hospitality.

Responsibilities

Greet and serve guests during brunches, farm dinners, and community table events.
Communicate menu offerings with clarity and care; answer guest questions knowledgeably
Set up and break down tables, dining areas, and outdoor event spaces
Maintain cleanliness and a welcoming atmosphere in all guest areas
Support with light prep or event logistics as needed

Ideal Candidate

2+ years of serving or hospitality experience (required)
Friendly, personable, and reliable under pressure
Comfortable working outdoors and being on your feet for extended periods
Passionate about local food, regenerative agriculture, and community-based hospitality
Team-oriented with a flexible and proactive approach

Perks & Benefits

Work in a peaceful, scenic farm environment
Join a down-to-earth and mission-driven team
Flexible scheduling
Employee discount
401(k) with matching
Health insurance
Paid sick time

To Apply

Send your resume and a brief note about yourself to [email protected]. We look forward to meeting you!

On Call Server

Location: The Ecology Center

Job Type: Part-Time | Seasonal | Temporary

Compensation: $23/hour

Expected Hours: On Call

About Us

Position Overview

We are seeking a warm, reliable Server to join our events team. You’ll play a vital role in delivering meaningful, joyful dining experiences to our guests—whether during an intimate farm dinner or a bustling weekend brunch. This is an ideal role for someone who enjoys nature, community, and intentional hospitality.

Responsibilities

Greet and serve guests during brunches, farm dinners, and community table events
Communicate menu offerings with clarity and care; answer guest questions knowledgeably
Set up and break down tables, dining areas, and outdoor event spaces
Maintain cleanliness and a welcoming atmosphere in all guest areas
Support with light prep or event logistics as needed

Ideal Candidate

2+ years of serving or hospitality experience (required)
Friendly, personable, and reliable under pressure
Comfortable working outdoors and being on your feet for extended periods
Passionate about local food, regenerative agriculture, and community-based hospitality
Team-oriented with a flexible and proactive approach

To Apply

Send your resume and a brief note about yourself to [email protected]. We look forward to meeting you!

Barista

Job Location: San Juan Capistrano, CA

Position Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal

Education Level: High School or GED

Salary Range: $18/hourly+tips

Travel Percentage: Negligible

Job Shift: All

Job Category: Culinary

Description

Overview:
We’re looking for a Barista to join our café team, someone who’s passionate about coffee, food, and hospitality, and inspired by the opportunity to work on a 28-acre regenerative organic farm and education center. As a Barista, you’ll help create exceptional coffee experiences for our guests while surrounded by the rhythms of the farm, the seasons, and a team committed to sustainability, learning, and community.

This is more than a cafe job. It’s a chance to be part of a values-driven environment where every cup you serve is rooted in purpose.

Key Responsibilities:

Craft consistently excellent espresso drinks, pour overs, and teas according to our café standards
Take and fulfill customer orders using a POS system with accuracy and care
Maintain deep knowledge of our food and beverage menu, including seasonal and farm-sourced offerings
Support smooth day-to-day café operations, including:
- Dialing in espresso and adjusting as needed throughout service
- Keeping the bar, guest areas, and back of house clean, organized, and well-stocked
- Assist in other FOH roles
Collaborate with team members and communicate clearly with leads and managers
Be curious and engaged in learning about coffee, hospitality, and the broader mission of the farm

Why This Role is Special:

You’ll work on a 28-acre regenerative organic farm and education center: a place that grows food with care for the land, teaches future farmers and food leaders, and connects community through good food and drink
Your daily environment includes open skies, seasonal produce, and a direct link between the farm and the café menu
Opportunities to learn from chefs, farmers and educators who are shaping a more just and sustainable food system

Qualifications:

2+ years of barista experience required
Friendly, joyful, and team-oriented
Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
Willing to work outdoors
Available to work weekends and holidays
Food Handler and/or Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) certification

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
Ability to lift up to 20 lbs and perform tasks with hands repetitively

To Apply

Send your resume and a brief note about yourself to [email protected]. We look forward to meeting you!

Floral Design and Fulfillment Assistant

DEPARTMENT: Farm Operations / Floral

REPORTS TO: Floral Program Manager

LOCATION: SJC

POSITION TYPE: Full-time, weekend hours

TRAVEL: Limited travel

SUPERVISES: N/A at this time

COMPENSATION: $18-$20

KEY COLLABORATORS: Floral Manager, Floral Field Coordinator, Farm Director, Farmstand Manager

JOB SUMMARY: The Floral Design + Fulfillment Coordinator is a creative design and order fulfillment position. This role fulfills floral orders, offers a high level of customer service, maintains quality control and organization, and oversees inventory. Design and orders are mainly fulfilled in our production barn, however some Floral Shop and Farmers Markets shifts are included in this role. While reporting directly to the Floral Program Manager, there is close collaboration with our Sales Manager, the Farmstand Manager and Floral Shop Coordinator.

REQUIRED SKILLS + QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High school diploma
Experience: Minimum of 2 years of Floral Design Experience + 2 years customer service related experience. ***These are both required for this position.
Specialized Skills: proficient in ecommerce platforms such as but not limited to Shopify
Physical Requirements: Ability to safely lift moderately heavy equipment (a minimum of 35 lbs.) and operation and comfort with equipment within safety standards such as ladders and pallet jacks. The majority of this work is outside, therefore the ability to handle working in an environment with varying temperatures.
Strong organizational + Time Management Skills with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously
Proficient in verbal and written English communication
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Highly dependable, punctual, and self-motivated
Commitment to a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and continuous learning

KEY COMPETENCIES

To have a positive impact, taking responsibility and initiative to resolve issues, always clearly communicating with both managers and team members
To be decisive, accepting responsibility for making things happen and thinking ahead
To be an active listener, remaining present and open, providing verbal, non-verbal, and supportive feedback, and showing our respect and empathy with one another.
To be motivated and committed, approaching all tasks with enthusiasm and seizing opportunities to learn new skills or knowledge in order to improve your performance
To be flexible, responding quickly and positively to changing environments
To maintain high team focus via cooperation and support to other team members in the pursuit of department goals
To be a positive role model and demonstrate the ethos of The Ecology Center and management team, and our overall company culture and values
Willingness to uphold our ongoing efforts toward diversity, equity and inclusion

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Daily Check-in with Floral Program Manager
Order Fulfillment
Farmer’s Market Team Marketeer
Customer Service :
- Interface with customers
- Florists
- Farmers Markets
Floral Design : Maintaining consistent look and feel of TEC floral design
- Production Bouquets, Special Orders, Holiday Arrangements, Wreaths and Installs.
Assist / Collaborate with the Floral Program Manager in further Program development
- Floral Shop/Cart
- Floral CSA
- Events
Daily Record Keeping : Bouquet ingredients, floral transfers, special orders, backstock of dry and fresh product
Inventory Data upkeep: pricing, product naming
Community Engagement, sharing knowledge of the flower program with our customers, volunteers and apprentices.
Maintaining care and organization of tools + other floral related materials and spaces i.e. sanitizing buckets, tidying spaces post use
Assisting with special orders, events + holiday designs
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees will also perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by the Floral Program Manager and/or his/her designee.

Interested applicants should email their resumes to [email protected].

Public Programs Educator

REPORTS TO: Education Director, Public Programs Manager

LOCATION: The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano, CA

POSITION TYPE: Part- to Full-Time

TRAVEL: (No travel)

JOB SUMMARY:

The Ecology Center is an educational non-profit which runs many public-facing programs for children (and adults), such as our Eco-Tots and Field Trip programs.

Participants explore our diverse ecological landscape with all of their senses. Educators are responsible for creating a safe, engaging, dynamic, “yes” space for very young children to young adults and their teachers, mentors, or guardian(s).

Educators create rhythms, activities, and thoughtfully curated prompts to engage children’s sensory wonder and engage their guardian(s) in conversations aligned with The Ecology Center’s vision and mission.

Educators set a tone of stewardship and presence, hospitality, and work to develop a community who engages in meaningful work that is worthy of imitation.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position is responsible for maintaining a beautiful and rich outdoor learning classroom/DIY space/playspace for children ranging from 2 months and up. Sessions are two to three hours, featuring a “Grow-Eat-Make” agroecological theme. There are up to two sessions offered per day. In addition, the teacher will greet and interact with children, teachers, and families, encouraging them to engage with onsite activities. The responsibility of the teacher is to provide a nourishing environment for both the children and adults.
Educators will also create content for and receive Field Trip groups varying in size and age range from TK through higher education.
The Educators will work collaboratively with our Education Director, Public Program Manager, and support staff to help promote the program, to communicate with prospective clients, and to assist families in learning about other The Ecology Center programs such as Farm Raised, Summer Camp and Festivals.
Educators will also play a supportive role in the planning, production, and clean-up of our farm-wide festivals, workshops, and community events.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Qualifications:

Demonstrate commitment to working out of the values of The Ecology Center.
Have strong interpersonal skills.

Language Skills:

Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers and the general public.
Ability to actively and clearly communicate with supervisors and directors to set goals, review KPIs, accept feedback and make changes to maximize success.
Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.

Technical Skills:

Applicants must be confident in using:

Word processing software
Spreadsheet software
Email management
Data entry
Digital calendars
Text messaging
Video conferencing
Guest Relations software (e.g. check-in app)

Experience:

Have parent-child class/group teaching experience, or have equivalent work experience.

License/Certification:

Hold an Early Childhood teaching certification from a recognized institution, or have equivalent work experience.

WORK LOCATION:

In person. Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

COMPENSATION: Ranges from $18 to $23 per hour commensurate with experience.

SCHEDULE:

Day shifts typically from 8a – 3p

Friday and Saturday regularly, plus Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays as needed.

HOW TO APPLY:
Complete an online questionnaire and upload a resume: https://forms.gle/nCYuYqj8Wbew9NXD8
When invited, participate in an on-site or virtual interview and turn in (or mail in) a formal application.

Community Events Intern

DEPARTMENT: Engagement

REPORTS TO: Jonathan Zaidman, Engagement Director

LOCATION: San Juan Capistrano, CA

POSITION TYPE: Part-Time (4-8 hours per week – event weekends required)

DURATION: February – June

JOB SUMMARY:

At The Ecology Center, we work to re-ignite the relationship we’ve lost with the land and one another. As an Engagement Department, we have the unique opportunity to inspire a deep sense of connection through community experiences. The Community Events Intern will have the opportunity to learn how to mobilize community-members around meaningful gatherings – from strategy, to organization, to execution, our festivals, dinners, workshops, U-picks, and markets are a fulfilling and energy-giving opportunity to learn by doing.

The Community Events Intern will work along the Community Engagement Team. You will have the opportunity to join strategic event meetings, research and communicate with potential event partners, and support on-site during organizational experiences.

EXPECTATIONS:

Hard worker with a positive attitude and willingness to solve problems
Hospitality experience
Availability to support on weekends during community events
Strong alignment with The Ecology Center’s values and mission
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

WHAT WE OFFER:

An opportunity to work with an experienced team hosting dozens of unique events and experiences for thousands of community members
A chance to be part of a passionate team dedicated to environmental education and sustainable practices
A collaborative, professional, and inclusive work atmosphere

TO APPLY:

Applications will be reviewed in January to make a selection with a start date of early February.
Please submit a resume and cover letter to Jonathan Zaidman – [email protected]

Prep Cook/ Dishwasher

REPORTS TO: BOH Manager

LOCATION: The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano, CA

POSITION TYPE: Part-Time, Full-Time, Seasonal

TRAVEL: (No travel)

JOB SUMMARY:

The Prep Cook will prepare meal ingredients, simple dishes, condiments, and other items as directed by senior culinary staff. Cleaning their workspace throughout the day to follow health and safety guidelines. The incumbent is responsible to consistently produce quality food according to established company and industry guidelines, while demonstrating exceptional customer service skills and continually looking for ways to enhance the customer’s overall experience.

Prolonged periods of standing and working in a kitchen.
Exposure to extreme heat, steam, and cold present in a kitchen environment.
Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
Must be able to work late nights and unpredictable hours.
Manual dexterity to cut and chop foods and perform other related tasks.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent is responsible for:
- Prepares meal ingredients as directed by the head chef, senior chef, or other staff.
- Prepares fresh produce by peeling, cutting, cooking and portioning.
- Prepares meat by trimming, cutting, cooking and portioning.
- Prepares simple dishes such as breads or salads.
- Mixes or prepares condiments, dressings, and sauces.
- Maintains compliance with applicable health, safety, food handling, and hygiene codes and standards.
- Assists with unloading, inspection, and storage of raw ingredients and supplies.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
- As directed by the Executive Chef or Chef de Cuisine, monitoring service levels, customer satisfaction and adherence to company policies and procedures. Supporting cost control efforts by anticipating customer volume based on current reservations and prior history (month, day of week, holiday weekends, etc.,) and making certain the appropriate amount of food is prepped.
- Participating in the monthly physical inventory counts at the venue.
- Assisting the Executive Chef and Chef de Cuisine in developing menu items for the restaurant or special events.
- Providing support at other venues for special events
- Maintaining ongoing communication with the kitchen staff to clearly communicate information or specific requirements for any scheduled events.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ ABILITIES:

Basic understanding of or the ability to learn basic sanitation and regulations for workplace safety.
Basic understanding of or the ability to learn food handling techniques, preparation, and cooking procedures.
Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
Ability to work quickly and efficiently.
Ability to work well as part of a team.
Ability to maintain personal hygiene.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Qualifications:

Must have exceptional organizational skills
Must possess attention to detail
Serve Safe Certificate

Education and/or Experience:

High school or vocational school coursework in kitchen basics such as food safety, preferred

Language Skills:

Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers and the general public.
Ability to write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals.
Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

Cooking: 1 year (Required)
Restaurant: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

Food Handler Certification (Required)

Restaurant type:

Café
Fast casual restaurant

WORK LOCATION:

In person. Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

COMPENSATION: $17 per hour

SCHEDULE:

Shift:
- Day shift
Weekly day range:
- Weekend availability

Email resumes and cover letter to [email protected] with “Prep Cook/ Dishwasher Application” as the email subject.

FARMSTAND CASHIER

REPORTS TO: FARMSTAND MANAGER

LOCATION: SJC

POSITION TYPE: FULL TIME, PART TIME

TRAVEL: N/A

PAY: $17-$19

JOB SUMMARY:

As a Farm Stand Cashier, you are the face of The Ecology Center and a passionate, driven, and knowledgeable advocate for our mission. You are responsible for ensuring a fun and friendly customer journey by prioritizing customer needs. You will be expected to speak to our core values, products, and be a proactive and attentive resource to our customers. Key responsibilities include, but not limited to,operating the cash register, stocking shelves, staying up to date on products and seasonal offerings, maintaining a clean and organized store environment while also collaborating with other team members to achieve goals.

REQUIREMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Bring a positive attitude
Proactive
Ability to work a flexible schedule-Weekends must be open
Ability to operate a cash register and follow all cash handling procedures
Stocking and making sure to properly rotate products.
Cleaning and maintaining all front end areas.
Create a warm and welcoming shopping experience
Passion for food and people
Strong work ethic and ability to work in a fast paced environment
Ability to follow directions and procedures
May assist with training new team members
Arrives to work on time
Effective time management and organizational skills
Upholds government regulations concerning sale of alcoholic beverages and consumption

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience: A minimum of 2 years retail sales or related customer facing experience
License or Certification: Valid Driver’s License
Specialized Skills: Word, Excel, Google Docs, Email, Slack
Physical Requirements: Ability to safely lift moderately heavy equipment (a minimum of 35 lbs) and operate equipment within safety standards

Email resume to [email protected]