COOK SPECIALIST II - $50868 to $62472 per YEAR
Posted on October 24, 2025
The California School for the Deaf, Fremont (CSDF) is one of the six State Special Schools under the Department of Education, dedicated to providing specialized educational services to deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Located on a sprawling 96-acre campus shared with the California School for the Blind and the Diagnostic Center, North, the school offers a unique and supportive learning environment. CSDF is strategically positioned within easy reach of public transit, including a short walk from BART, and provides free employee parking, making it a convenient workplace for staff. As an institution, CSDF is committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible, and safe environment not only for its students but also for its employees, adhering to equal opportunity principles and a drug-free workplace policy.
The Cook Specialist II position at CSDF is a vital role within the school’s food services department. This permanent, full-time role involves working under supervision as part of a dedicated cooking team to prepare nutritious, appealing, and safe meals for students, staff, and visitors. The work environment is structured around an academic calendar running from August to June, with specified work hours Monday through Friday that accommodate the needs of the school community. The role is classified as safety-sensitive, requiring adherence to rigorous health and safety protocols, including tuberculosis risk assessment, fingerprint clearance, and drug and alcohol testing.
The primary responsibilities of the Cook Specialist II include preparing, cooking, baking, and transporting food items according to production work sheets. Attention to detail in food preparation is critical to ensure meals are both appetizing and safe to consume. The role also emphasizes the proper handling and storage of leftovers in compliance with food safety standards. Additionally, this position holds supervisory responsibilities, overseeing Food Services Technicians in the absence of senior supervisory staff, which adds an element of leadership and team coordination to the everyday duties. The position offers a salary range of $4,239.00 to $5,206.00 and is based in Alameda County, California.
Candidates interested in this position must have passed the examination that provides list eligibility for the Cook Specialist II classification, ensuring that all staff members meet the requisite professional and skill standards. The department values applicants who have relevant experience, qualifications, and a commitment to providing high-quality food services in an educational setting. Those applying must follow detailed application instructions, including submitting the required forms and documentation electronically or via mail to the provided addresses. The application review process prioritizes current employees eligible for lateral transfer or reinstatement and those with other eligibility types, ensuring a transparent and fair selection procedure.
Overall, the Cook Specialist II role at CSDF presents a challenging and rewarding opportunity to contribute to the wellbeing of a diverse school community. The position not only requires cooking expertise but also a dedication to upholding food safety, supervisory capabilities, and collaboration with other kitchen staff. Working in a supportive educational institution like CSDF enables candidates to grow professionally while making a meaningful impact on the lives of students and staff through the preparation of healthy and safe meals.
- high school diploma or equivalent
- successful completion of the Cook Specialist II examination
- valid tuberculosis risk assessment or test
- fingerprint clearance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice
- ability to work scheduled hours Monday through Friday
- willingness to comply with drug and alcohol testing policies
- ability to perform physical tasks associated with cooking and food preparation