Job Overview
The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving meals in a residential treatment setting under the direction of the Kitchen Supervisor. This position focuses on meal execution, kitchen cleanliness, and food safety while following established menus, recipes, and instructions provided by the Kitchen Supervisor.
The Cook supports daily kitchen operations by ensuring meals are prepared accurately, served on time, and handled in compliance with food safety standards. This role does not include menu planning and works collaboratively with the Kitchen Supervisor and program staff to support a therapeutic, recovery-focused environment.
Cooks work in a licensed residential healthcare kitchen that provides daily meals to clients in treatment. The environment requires strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, confidentiality, and professionalism standards when interacting with residents and staff.
Essential Functions / Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and cook meals according to menus, recipes, and instructions provided by the Kitchen Supervisor.
- Ensure meals are prepared accurately, consistently, and within required timeframes.
- Follow portion control and serving guidelines as directed.
- Accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, and special meal needs as instructed by supervision.
- Serve meals in a timely, professional, and respectful manner.
- Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen, food preparation, storage, and dining areas.
- Properly store food according to safety, labeling, and temperature requirements.
- Clean and sanitize equipment, utensils, and workstations after use.
- Notify the Kitchen Supervisor of low inventory, expired items, or equipment concerns.
- Adhere to food safety, sanitation, and infection control standards at all times.
- Follow health department regulations and internal policies.
- Participate in inspections, audits, and corrective actions as directed.
- Maintain regular communication with the Kitchen Supervisor regarding daily kitchen needs.
- Work collaboratively with program staff to support daily operations.
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries with residents.
- Observe and report safety concerns, facility issues, or client behavior concerns per policy to support a safe recovery environment.
Additional Functions
- Assist the Kitchen Supervisor with food preparation or cleanup as assigned.
- Provide coverage during staff absences or periods of increased census as directed.
- Assist with special events or holiday meals under supervision.
- Perform other kitchen or program-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required — Education, Knowledge & Skills
- Ability to prepare meals by following established menus, recipes, and instructions.
- Knowledge of basic cooking techniques and food preparation methods.
- Understanding of food safety, sanitation, and proper food handling practices.
- Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment.
- Strong time-management and task-prioritization skills.
- Ability to work independently while following supervisory direction.
- Professional communication skills and ability to interact respectfully with residents and staff.
Preferred
- Experience working in a residential, healthcare, or treatment facility.
- Experience working under a Kitchen Supervisor or dietary lead.
- Knowledge of dietary restrictions, food allergies, and meal modifications as instructed.
- Valid Food Handler Certification (required or obtained within a designated timeframe).
- Familiarity with health department regulations and inspection processes.
Pay: $18.00 - $22.50 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
