JUVENILE PROBATION DEPARTMENT - KITCHEN - COOK

El Paso County operates a comprehensive food service system that supports institutional settings such as detention and correction facilities, ensuring nutritious and well-balanced meals are provided to all residents in adherence to strict regulatory standards. As a significant governmental entity, El Paso County prioritizes quality, safety, and compliance within its food service operations. The County's Child Nutrition Program aligns with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's standards to guarantee meals served contribute to the health and wellness of those in care. The department supports a diverse workforce and values bilingual skills, especially Spanish and English fluency, to accommodate the community's needs and enhance communication within its operations. The Cook position within El Paso County's food service team is a vital role responsible for the preparation and serving of meals in a large-scale institutional setting. The role requires cooking meals strictly according to standardized recipes and food production records while ensuring compliance with federal nutrition standards and local health regulations. The position demands a strong commitment to hygiene, food safety protocols, and equipment maintenance to ensure the kitchen environment remains sanitary and operationally safe. Through adherence to these rigorous standards, the Cook contributes significantly to the health and safety of the facility's residents and staff. This full-time role involves preparing designated menu items in required quantities, monitoring kitchen equipment, and maintaining thorough documentation for food production and inventory control. The candidate must be adept at ordering, receiving, and verifying food supplies to meet quality and regulatory standards including temperature controls and storage protocols such as First-In, First-Out (FIFO) inventory management. The Cook will also take on leadership responsibilities when designated as the "Cook" of the day, overseeing kitchen operations, ensuring all safety and sanitation procedures are followed, and managing security measures related to the kitchen area. Additional responsibilities encompass providing excellent customer service, collaborating with culinary supervisors on equipment and menu planning, and participating in ongoing training to enhance skills in food safety and kitchen management. The role includes working flexible hours including nights, weekends, holidays, and being on call due to the nature of the institutional environment. The position also requires meeting emergency response obligations as part of El Paso County's Disaster Service Workers, highlighting the essential public safety role of employees beyond routine duties. Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of one year of experience in large food service operations, preferably in institutional settings. Bilingual abilities in Spanish and English are an advantage, reflecting the County’s commitment to serving a diverse population. The position mandates possession of a valid Food Handler’s Permit, a driver’s license with an acceptable driving record, and adherence to safety measures including wearing approved uniforms and non-slip safety shoes. Familiarity with the Texas Juvenile Justice Department’s security requirements and the City of El Paso Department of Public Health standards is essential. This role offers an opportunity to work in a stable and structured government environment where employee safety, health, and compliance are paramount. The Cook position within El Paso County provides a meaningful career path for professionals dedicated to food service excellence and public service. By maintaining rigorous standards in food preparation and kitchen safety, incumbent employees contribute directly to the well-being of some of the community’s most vulnerable populations while working in a team-oriented and supportive workplace.

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of one year work experience in large food service operations preferably in an institutional setting
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred
• Current Food Handler's Permit
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Proof of automobile liability insurance coverage
• Ability to wear approved designated staff uniform including non-slip black safety shoes
• Experience with U.S Department of Agriculture Child Nutrition requirements
• Experience with City of El Paso Department of Public Health regulations
• Must have telephone and report residence
• Must have or obtain a personal mobile smart device by hire date to access County's network and systems
• Willingness to work non-traditional hours 24/7 including holidays, shift work and be on call
• Ability to maintain kitchen security and safety standards
• Ability to follow safety and sanitation protocols