The work we do matters!
Hiring Agency:
Health & Human Services - Agency 25
Location:
Kearney, NE
Hiring Rate:
$18.071
Job Posting:
JR2026-00026769 FOOD SERVICE COOK (Open)
Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed):
06-30-2026
Job Description:
At the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney, we're not just about words – we're about action! Our team are the driving force behind the transformation, inspiring youth to believe in themselves and the endless possibilities that await them. Together, let's empower youth to embrace their strengths and chart a course to success.
Why This Work Matters
You'll work alongside youth with complex behaviors on their journey toward healing, growth, and stability. Through structure, mentorship, and compassion, you’ll help youth develop the skills and mindset needed to become successful, law-abiding citizens.
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Our Mission:
“Help youth live better lives through effective services, giving youth the chance to become law-abiding citizens.”
If you're passionate about positively influencing future generations, this is your opportunity to be part of something bigger.
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What We Offer
We support the people who support our youth. Enjoy outstanding benefits, job security, and a team that feels like family.
- 156% state-matched retirement — one of the best in the nation
- 13 paid holidays + generous leave starting immediately
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- $20,000 employer-paid life insurance
- Tuition reimbursement & professional development
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Fun, mission-driven, and supportive team environment
- Job stability in public service
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Who We are
The Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney (YRTC-K) is accredited by the American Correctional Association, owned and operated by the Department of Health and Human Services, and the State of Nebraska. YRTC-K serves male youth between the ages of 14 and just before the age of
As a Food Service Worker, you will:
Prepare, season, cook, and bake a variety of food items according to menus, recipes, dietary requirements, and portion guidelines
Ensure meals are prepared and served in compliance with food safety and sanitation standards
Train and assist food service staff in food preparation, serving procedures, dishwashing, cleaning, and routine equipment maintenance
Clean, maintain, and operate kitchen equipment, utensils, and food preparation areas
Maintain kitchen and dining room records and documentation
Assist with inventory management, including ordering, receiving, storing, and distributing food and supplies
Monitor food quality, portion control, and meal service operations
Assist with menu planning and meal preparation scheduling
Support daily kitchen operations and ensure compliance with facility policies and procedures
May assist with scheduling work assignments and coordinating daily activities of food service staff
Participate in maintaining a safe, clean, and organized kitchen and dining environment
Requirements/Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications: Coursework, training and/or experience in food preparation, baking and/or kitchen operations in the food service industry or related field.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in institutional, school, healthcare, correctional, or large-scale food service operations
Experience training or leading other staff
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations
Experience with inventory management and ordering procedures
Other: Some positions may require applicants to be of a specific minimum age to comply with State and/or facility accreditation regulations
Schedule
11:30am-7:30pm w/ 1-2 morning shift during the week as well
Compensation
Pay starts at $18.07/hr
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of:
Food preparation and cooking techniques
Baking methods and recipe preparation
Food safety, sanitation, and kitchen safety practices
Special diets and nutritional requirements
Kitchen equipment, utensils, and food service operations
Inventory control and food storage procedures
Facility policies, procedures, and emergency protocols
Ability to:
Prepare a wide variety of meals and baked goods
Follow recipes, menus, and dietary requirements accurately
Train and guide food service staff in kitchen operations
Safely operate kitchen equipment and tools
Maintain accurate records and inventory documentation
Work effectively in a fast-paced kitchen environment
Follow written and verbal instructions
Communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and customers
Lift, carry, bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods
Work in environments with varying temperatures and humidity levels
The Department of Health and Human Services uses behavioral based questions when conducting interviews. Please review the attached document to learn more about the STAR Method, and how you can best prepare if you are selected for an interview!
For more information about the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and the Division of Children and Family Services, please visit our website, http://dhhs.ne.gov/careers
If you're currently employed by the State of Nebraska, please don't apply through this external career site. Instead, log in to Workday and open the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app from your home landing page. You can access Workday anytime through the Link web page: https://link.nebraska.gov/
We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.
Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefits
Equal Opportunity Statement
The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex. age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.
