Lead Cook - Join the Team!

The hiring establishment is a well-respected social service organization dedicated to providing nutritional support and housing assistance to community members in need. This organization operates with a mission to enhance the quality of life for vulnerable populations by ensuring they receive nutritious meals prepared under safe and sanitary conditions. With a structured environment guided by the Social Service Director and Housing Manager, the team focuses on delivering meals that meet health standards and encourage well-being. The company values operational excellence and teamwork to maintain high standards in meal preparation and service, catering to a diverse group of recipients. This position is specifically responsible for assisting the Social Service Director and Housing Manager to achieve operational effectiveness in the kitchen. The role encompasses planning, preparing, and cooking nutritional meals and snacks that meet established guidelines and schedules. The individual in this role must ensure all meals are prepared and served safely and presented in a professional manner that promotes dignity among recipients. Responsibilities also include the upkeep of kitchen facilities, equipment, and appliances through routine cleaning and maintenance. In addition, this position requires effective inventory management to maintain adequate supplies of food and kitchen essentials in an organized fashion. The role also involves leadership duties, assigning tasks, instructing, and monitoring the work of cooks and cook assistants to ensure food preparation and kitchen operations meet the organization’s standards. Menu planning is a critical component of the position, requiring the ability to purchase and manage food and supplies necessary to meet the needs of meal service. This role demands the preparation of food in quantities that match the number of people served, emphasizing timely food preparation and service. The cook must ensure food safety by cooking to proper temperatures and storing fresh, frozen, and leftover food using appropriate containers and conditions adhering to the Department of Health standards. Monitoring expiration dates and adhering strictly to Serv Safe guidelines are mandatory practices. The individual in this position will operate in a normal kitchen environment, which includes working around hot stoves, ovens, and cold freezers with associated physical demands such as standing, walking, kneeling, and squatting. The ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English is essential for clear instructions and proper documentation. This role is vital in delivering a high-quality meal service that supports the health and nutrition of the served population, reflecting the establishment's commitment to community well-being and food safety standards.

• ability to meet attendance requirements
• ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
• capability to cook, taste, and smell food
• physical ability to walk, stand, kneel, or squat frequently
• willingness to work in a kitchen environment with heat and cold exposure
• high school diploma or GED
• three years of related experience
• food handler’s certificate or commitment to obtain it