What is the Humanitarian Center? 

The Latter-day Saint Humanitarian Center is a facility where excess clothing from Deseret Industries stores is processed for humanitarian aid and recycling. It is also used to prepare and distribute charitable kits for needs related to hygiene, education, cleaning, maternal and newborn care. 

The Humanitarian Center is a part of Deseret Industries. Like DI stores, the Humanitarian Center serves as an employment training facility and is owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Where is the Humanitarian Center located?  

The Humanitarian Center is located at 1665 South Bennett Road Salt Lake City, Utah 84104. 

What positions does the Humanitarian Center hire for?  

The Humanitarian Center hires for both temporary full-time and part-time positions. Employees are known as associates and are assigned to work in sorting, baling, forklift, food service, custodial, electronic recycling, and maintenance.

What are the job responsibilities of associates?  

Job responsibilities depend on what area of the facility an associate is assigned to. For example, associates in processing assignments are responsible for things like sorting, baling, or operating a forklift while those in food preparation handle tasks like preparing ingredients, making food, and operating kitchen equipment. 

Assignments are made based on the needs of the facility and interests of the associates.

What are the qualifications to work at the Humanitarian Center?  

To work at the Humanitarian Center, you must be at least 18 years old and eligible to work in the United States. Prospective employees should also have a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. Previous experience is not required—on-the-job training will be provided.

Those who like working with their hands tend to enjoy employment at the Humanitarian Center.

What hours will I be required to work? 

The center operates Monday through Friday from 7:00am to 3:30pm. Part-time positions are 20-28 hours per week, while full-time positions are 40 hours per week. Employees needing to learn English have the option to work a full-time schedule, with half of each shift dedicated to English classes. For those working part-time, flexibility with scheduling is provided to meet associate needs. 

One unpaid 30-minute lunch break and two paid 10-minute breaks can be taken during a full shift.

What is the working environment like?  

The working environment largely depends on what area of the facility an associate is assigned to. For example, associates involved with sorting, baling, and operating a forklift work in a high-volume processing environment, whereas those in food preparation perform their tasks in a kitchen. 

To ensure that the facility remains a safe environment, training is provided. Closed-toe and closed-heel shoes must be worn at all times. As required for job responsibilities, personal protective equipment will be provided, including (but not limited to) safety goggles, steel-toed shoes, hearing protection, gloves, and hairnets.

What skills will I learn at the center?  

As part of the job training program, associates learn marketable skills such as forklift operation, food service, custodial, and maintenance. Employees are supported by operational supervisors who function as job coaches. Job coaches help associates develop skills and habits that prepare them for future employment opportunities and also assist them with career planning. 

The job training program at the Humanitarian Center also places an emphasis on helping associates learn English, making it an ideal workplace for immigrants and those displaced from their home countries. To address English-related needs, full-time associates participate in an internal English program for half of their paid working shift.

What other on-the-job opportunities exist?

As part of their workday, associates can attend a wellness group—a seven-week course designed to help manage stress. This group provides techniques and emotional support for those who have faced trauma or need assistance developing healthy ways of dealing with stress. 

Additionally, associates have the opportunity to earn on-the-job certifications, which prepares them to obtain better employment across a myriad of industries. With the skills developed through the Humanitarian Center, associates have found other positions in warehousing, custodial, maintenance, food service, and forklift, as well as jobs in nursing, truck driving, and more.

How much are associates paid?  

Pay starts at $10 an hour with opportunities for frequent raises. These are skill-based raises determined by an associate’s effort. 

In addition to a wage, those who work full-time are compensated with medical benefits. 

How do I apply to work at the Humanitarian Center?  

To apply for a job, visit the Humanitarian Center at 1665 South Bennett Road Salt Lake City, Utah 84104 or call 801-240-6887.