Appetizing Associate
Position Summary
Agata & Valentina, one of New York City's premier Italian specialty food stores, is seeking a friendly, motivated, and detail-oriented Appetizing Associate to join our team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about high-quality food, exceptional customer service, and traditional Italian specialty products. This position is responsible for preparing, slicing, packaging, and serving a variety of premium cheeses, cured meats, smoked fish, and other appetizing products while maintaining the highest standards of freshness, presentation, and food safety. If you enjoy working in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment and take pride in delivering an outstanding shopping experience, we have an exciting opportunity for you.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Provide friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive customer service, assisting customers with product selections, recommendations, and special requests.
Slice, weigh, portion, package, and label a variety of appetizing products, including cheeses, cured meats, smoked fish, olives, and other specialty foods according to customer specifications.
Operate and maintain deli slicers, scales, knives, and other department equipment safely and efficiently.
Prepare specialty food platters, antipasto selections, and other ready-to-eat products according to company standards.
Maintain attractive, clean, and fully stocked refrigerated display cases, ensuring proper product presentation, freshness, and availability.
Monitor product quality, expiration dates, and storage temperatures to ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.
Follow proper food handling procedures, including labeling, dating, rotation (FIFO), and prevention of cross-contamination.
Assist with receiving deliveries, inspecting merchandise, organizing storage areas, and replenishing department inventory.
Minimize product waste by following portion control guidelines, proper storage procedures, and inventory management practices.
Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment, including counters, display cases, slicers, utensils, and preparation areas.
Collaborate with department managers and team members to ensure efficient operations and timely customer service during peak business hours.
Assist with opening and closing procedures, including department setup, equipment cleaning, and product storage.
Adapt to changing department needs and perform additional duties as assigned by management.
Maintain professionalism and a positive attitude in a fast-paced, customer-focused retail environment.
Knowledge, Skills and Competencies
1 2 years of experience in an appetizing department, deli, specialty food market, or similar food retail environment preferred.
Knowledge of premium cheeses, Italian cured meats, smoked fish, olives, and other specialty appetizing products is a plus.
Ability to safely operate deli slicers, knives, scales, and other food preparation equipment.
Strong customer service and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with customers and coworkers.
Familiarity with food safety, sanitation, temperature control, and proper food storage procedures.
Strong attention to detail when slicing, weighing, packaging, and presenting products.
Ability to work efficiently and accurately in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
Basic math skills for weighing products, calculating quantities, and understanding pricing.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to maintain clean, well-stocked displays.
Team-oriented attitude with a willingness to assist coworkers and support department operations.
Flexibility to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Qualifications and Experience
1 2 years of experience in a deli, appetizing department, gourmet grocery store, specialty food market, or similar food service role preferred.
Previous experience slicing and handling cheeses, cured meats, smoked fish, or other ready-to-eat specialty products is highly desirable.
Experience operating commercial deli slicers, digital scales, and food preparation equipment preferred.
High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Food Handler's Certificate or Food Protection Certificate is a plus.
Experience in a customer-facing retail food environment preferred.
Ability to follow established recipes, portion guidelines, and product presentation standards.
Must be able to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in refrigerated environments as needed.
Ability to perform repetitive tasks, including slicing, packaging, stocking, and cleaning, while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.
Job Description
Company:J.A.V. Food Corp d/b/a Agata & Valentina
Location:New York, NY 10075
Job Type:Full-Time, In-Person
Compensation:From $17.00/hr - $20.00/hr
Reports To:Department Manager
Benefits
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with employer match
Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
Employee discounts
Equal Opportunity Statement
Agata & Valentina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.