Job Description

Please note this position requires daytime availability and weekend flexibility.

Company Overview

Market Fresh is Guelph's premier independent gourmet grocer focused on local producers and products. We have been in operation for over 20 years and pride ourselves on offering exceptional customer service and quality food. Our full-service grocery store includes a scratch bakery, butcher shop, deli, commercial kitchen, Gourmet to Go Cafe, full kitchen, garden centre and giftware area. Market Fresh is a celebration of fine food--making us a destination shopping experience for community members and visitors. Our MF in the Community program seeks to raise awareness and funding for local not-for-profit programs and charities aligned to our mission to buy local, be local, support local.

Position Summary

The Prepared Meals Merchandiser & Packer is responsible for both packaging freshly made meals and merchandising them in the grab-and-go areas of the store. This role ensures that all prepared food items are correctly portioned, safely packed, attractively displayed, and ready for customers throughout the day. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, food safety-conscious, and has a strong eye for product presentation.

Job Structure

This is a part-time hourly position. Work schedule includes weekends and holidays as required. Paid vacation accrual at 4%.

Responsibilities

Packaging & Prep:

Portion and pack freshly prepared meals (hot and cold) into containers for retail sale. Ensure all packaging is clean, sealed properly, and meets presentation standards. Label all items accurately with product name, ingredients, allergens, expiration date, and pricing. Follow food safety and handling procedures to maintain freshness and prevent contamination. Work closely with the kitchen team to coordinate meal prep and packaging timelines.

Merchandising:

Stock and rotate prepared meals in cold cases, hot bars, and grab-and-go displays. Maintain clean, organized, and attractive displays according to merchandising standards. Monitor expiration dates and remove out-of-date or damaged items. Set up promotional displays and signage for new or featured meal items. Track product movement and communicate with management about restock needs or customer feedback.

Customer Service:

Answer customer questions about meal ingredients, preparation, and availability. Provide a friendly and helpful shopping experience.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Prior experience in food prep, deli, or grocery merchandising is a plus. Strong attention to detail and cleanliness. Familiarity with food safety standards. Ability to work in cold or warm environments (walk-ins, hot food stations). Physically able to stand for long periods, bend, and lift up to 40 lbs. Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, and holidays.
Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: $17.20 per hour

Expected hours: 30 - 35 per week

Benefits:

Company events On-site parking Store discount
Work Location: In person