Cook II (5AM-1:30PM, Thu & Fri Off) - $14 to $19 per HOUR

The Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH), part of the Department of Mental Health (DMH) in Massachusetts, is a renowned healthcare institution dedicated to providing specialized mental health services. Situated on over 100 acres in Worcester, Massachusetts, WRCH serves as an integral component of a statewide network that ensures efficient, effective, and culturally competent mental health care for individuals across the state. The hospital is equipped to provide intermediate and long-term inpatient care specifically tailored for adults and adolescents coping with serious and persistent mental illness. It also offers specialized court-ordered evaluations and inclusive programs, such as the Deaf Inpatient Mental Health Service, for distinct patient needs. Serving approximately 290 adult patients and 30 adolescents on the adolescent crisis care unit (ACCU), WRCH is committed to delivering compassionate care that supports recovery and community integration. WRCH operates under the guiding principles of the Department of Mental Health, which strives to make mental health services accessible to individuals of all ages. The department emphasizes promoting recovery, self-determination, and safeguarding human rights. WRCH upholds these values by fostering a supportive workplace culture focused on quality care, innovation, and community participation. This mission-driven environment makes WRCH a rewarding place for professionals seeking a meaningful career in mental health allied services. Within this dynamic setting, WRCH is seeking to add a full-time Cook II to its Food and Nutrition team. This department plays an essential role in the overall patient care experience by preparing nutritious meals that meet therapeutic and special dietary requirements. The Cook II is responsible for cooking food in quantity for patients and special events, using standardized and modified recipes as necessary. The position also involves preparing baked goods, operating all kitchen equipment safely and effectively, and overseeing both the production and tray line staff. The Cook II collaborates closely with dietitians to ensure meal preparation meets all prescribed dietary guidelines and maintains rigorous quality control standards related to food safety, temperature, and presentation. This full-time role follows a specific schedule from 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM, with days off on Thursdays and Fridays, providing a consistent routine. The Cook II’s duties also include managing food orders in the absence of supervisors, overseeing storage of deliveries, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with sanitation and safety codes within the kitchen environment. Training and mentoring new staff and assisting with tray-line and dining room operations are also integral to the role. Candidates with bilingual or multilingual skills, including American Sign Language (ASL), are highly preferred due to the diverse patient population. The Cook II position at WRCH offers the perfect opportunity for culinary professionals looking to apply their skills in a healthcare setting that values quality nutrition as a critical component of patient recovery. Joining WRCH means becoming part of a dedicated team focused on comprehensive patient wellness and supported by an employer that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Furthermore, the Commonwealth offers an outstanding suite of employee benefits and a supportive work environment that promotes professional growth and work-life balance. Individuals ready to contribute both culinary expertise and compassionate service are encouraged to apply and join the mission to improve mental health outcomes in Massachusetts.

• Two years of full time or equivalent part time experience in preparation and cooking of food in hotel restaurant cafeteria catering firm government or private institution
• Equivalent combination of required experience and substitutions accepted
• Diploma or certificate from recognized trade technical or vocational school with major in culinary arts food services or food trades accepted as substitution for one year experience
• Ability to read write and communicate in English
• None related to licensure or certification
• Background check required prior to hiring
• Successful candidates must acknowledge and attest to COVID 19 and influenza vaccination status