Food Preparation Associate
About the job
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Previous experience in food production or a similar manufacturing environment is preferred.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Knowledge of food safety standards and regulations.
- Basic math skills for measuring ingredients and tracking production quantities.
- Ability to stand for long periods, lift heavy items, and perform physical tasks.
- Ability to work in a temperature-controlled environment, including cold storage and hot kitchens.
- Flexibility in working hours, including nights and weekends.
- Follow recipe and build specifications to assemble sandwiches and salads with the production team in an assembly-line environment.
- Prepare raw ingredients by washing, chopping, and measuring them for recipes.
- Operate food production equipment, including mixers, ovens, and fryers, according to company procedures and safety guidelines.
- Follow recipes and production instructions to ensure food quality and consistency.
- Monitor holding times and temperatures to maintain food safety standards.
- Package finished food products in compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Label packages with correct product information, expiration dates, and other required details.
- Ensure packaging is neat, secure, and suitable for presentation to customers.
- Perform routine checks to ensure products meet taste, texture, and appearance standards.
- Monitor production areas for adherence to health, sanitation, and safety standards.
- Report food quality issues, equipment malfunctions, or unsafe practices to supervisors.
- Follow food safety guidelines, including proper use of personal protective equipment and sanitation procedures.
- Maintain an efficient production line by following established workflows and protocols.
- Communicate with team members and supervisors to support smooth operations.
- Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of food production equipment and work areas.
- Track ingredients and supplies used in production, report low inventory levels, and help maintain stock levels to prevent production delays.
- Work with production associates, quality control staff, and supervisors to meet production goals and deadlines.
- Participate in team meetings to discuss production schedules, quality concerns, and process improvements.
- Regularly clean and sanitize workstations and equipment.
- Culinary or food safety certification is a plus.
About the company
Continental Services is a contract dining management company that provides fresh, handcrafted food for corporate workplaces, grab-and-go pantry-style vending, special events, and luxury yachts. The company runs on long-term contracts and event-based services, delivering tailored dining solutions through on-site staffing, menu design, catering operations, and specialized yacht provisioning. By managing client needs end-to-end, Continental ensures high-quality food and reliable service for businesses, events, and luxury vessels. What sets Continental apart is its collaborative culture, flexible hours, and a track record of adapting to crises (notably its COVID-19 response, where it fed frontline health workers), along with its focus on reimagining workplace dining. The company’s goal is to be a trusted partner for corporate dining, events, and luxury hospitality by delivering customized, consistent, and dependable food experiences while supporting clients’ operational needs.
Company Size
201-500
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Troy, Michigan
Founded
1989
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Continental claims more than 3,000 clients, including Fortune 100 companies, as of April 2026.
- Updated July 2026 materials highlight award-winning teams and 24/7 service technicians.
- Its Midwest footprint spans Detroit, Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, and other dense markets.
What critics are saying
- Private-equity ownership shifted to Morgan Street Holdings in November 2024, pressuring exit-driven execution.
- Michigan Central and similar premium accounts concentrate revenue in event-driven, discretionary spending.
- Workplace dining demand stays fragile if remote work reduces on-site headcount through 2026.
What makes Continental Services unique
- Detroit-founded since 1989, Continental serves workplaces, events, and yachts across the Midwest.
- It pairs contract dining with micro-markets, coffee, delivery, and custom culinary programs.
- Michigan Central named Continental exclusive catering partner on April 20, 2026.
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Benefits
- Meal Benefits