Crisis Center, Inc. is located in Miller Beach (Gary), IN.
Mission: Opening a path of hope for lives in crisis.
Vision: A community in which all achieve their full potential.
The Crisis Center is seeking a dedicated and reliable Full-Time Cook/Direct Care Professional to join our Alternative House Department. Our programs provide trauma-informed care and comprehensive support services to children in need of both emergency residential placement and long-term residential treatment. As an integral part of our team, the Cook helps maintain a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for the children we serve. To learn more about our transformative programs, please visit: www.CrisisCenterysb.org
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals for residents and staff in accordance with IDOE and contractual menu requirements.
- Maintaining strict health, safety, and sanitation standards in all food preparation and storage areas.
- Cleaning and sanitizing kitchen equipment, utensils, surfaces, and cooking areas daily.
- Monitoring food inventory, ensuring proper storage, and checking expiration dates regularly.
- Keep all freezers, coolers, and pantry areas clean, organized, and fully stocked.
- Maintaining accurate records related to meal production, inventory, nutritional guidelines, and regulatory compliance.
- Preparing special request meals for residents or events as needed.
- Participating in all required trainings, including HIPAA, Nutrition/Sanitation, Cultural Diversity, and more, as mandated by the State and agency.
- Help manage the milieu to ensure a safe, supportive environment.
- Provide direct personal support to residents through coaching, role modeling, and active engagement.
- Attending monthly staff meetings and supporting a collaborative team environment.
- Upholding a high standard of personal hygiene and using proper food handling gear always.
- May perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor within the scope of the position.
Expectations:
- Consistently prepare high-quality, nutritious meals that meet dietary and program standards.
- Adhere to all applicable licensing, health, and accreditation regulations.
- Maintain a strong focus on customer service for both residents and staff.
- Utilize sound judgment and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment.
- Promote a safe, stable, and supportive kitchen and dining environment.
- Provide services that are culturally responsive and inclusive.
- Demonstrate professionalism and respect in all interactions with residents, staff, and the community.
- Support ongoing quality improvement and operational excellence initiatives.
- Assist residents in daily living activities, including recreational and leisure activities, hygiene and health routines, and schoolwork or homework.
- Collaborate with the treatment team to use everyday activities as therapeutic opportunities, fostering a sense of structure and permanency.
- Provide transportation to and from appointments or visits, as needed.
- Ensure continuous supervision of residents during all activities and transitions throughout the day.
- Participate in monthly program staff meetings and other relevant team meetings as required.
Supervision & Training:
- The Program Director and/or Residential Manager oversee the department. During each shift, the Cook reports directly to the Kitchen Manager and/or Residential Manager.
Schedule & Availability:
- This is a full-time position with variable hours. As our residential programs operate 24/7, candidates must be available to work 8-hour shifts during the day, evening, or overnight, including some weekends and holidays as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Possess and maintain a valid driver's license. - Insurable on agency vehicles. (Must have a clean driving record for 5 years).
- High School Diploma/GED Required.
- Fingerprint based National & State Criminal History Check
- Child Protective Services Check
- National Sex Offender Registry Check
- Local Criminal Court Records Check
- Computer Literacy
- TB Test
- Pre-Employment Physical & Drug Test
Benefits:
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision insurance
- LTD & STD
- Life Insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Birthday
- 403(b) company contribution
- 403(b) Match
- Employee Assistance Program
Pay: $14.00 - $17.00 per hour
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- Cooking: 1 year (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Gary, IN 46403 (Required)
Work Location: In person
