Position Summary
L.O.S.T., Inc. is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and organized Cook to prepare nutritious, home-style meals for youth residing in our therapeutic group home. The Cook plays a vital role in supporting the physical health, emotional well-being, and daily routine of residents by providing balanced meals in a safe, welcoming, family-style environment.
The ideal candidate enjoys cooking, understands the importance of nutrition for adolescents, maintains high sanitation standards, and works collaboratively with residential staff to create positive dining experiences while meeting all Illinois DCFS, food safety, and licensing requirements.
Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesMeal Preparation
- Prepare and serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and scheduled snacks according to the approved monthly menu.
- Prepare healthy, nutritious, and appealing meals appropriate for adolescents.
- Accommodate food allergies, dietary restrictions, cultural preferences, and physician-ordered diets.
- Ensure meals are served on schedule and in a welcoming family-style environment.
- Prepare meals for holidays, birthdays, and special agency events.
Kitchen Operations
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen at all times.
- Properly store food according to food safety regulations.
- Monitor food temperatures during preparation, cooking, holding, and storage.
- Wash dishes, cookware, utensils, and maintain kitchen equipment.
- Complete daily kitchen cleaning and sanitation logs.
Inventory & Purchasing
- Monitor food inventory and kitchen supplies.
- Notify supervisors of items needing replenishment.
- Assist with grocery shopping and supply ordering within the approved budget.
- Rotate food using FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory practices.
- Reduce food waste through proper planning and storage.
Food Safety & Compliance
- Follow all Illinois Department of Public Health, DCFS Rule 401/403, OSHA, and ServSafe food handling guidelines.
- Maintain proper sanitation procedures.
- Ensure refrigerator and freezer temperature logs are completed daily.
- Participate in health inspections and licensing reviews.
- Report any kitchen maintenance or safety concerns immediately.
Resident Support
- Foster a positive and welcoming dining atmosphere.
- Encourage healthy eating habits among residents.
- Teach basic cooking and nutrition skills during life skills programming when assigned.
- Model respectful behavior and positive communication.
- Assist with meal preparation activities involving youth under staff supervision.
Collaboration
- Work closely with residential counselors and supervisors regarding meal schedules.
- Communicate food shortages or dietary concerns promptly.
- Participate in staff meetings and required trainings.
- Support agency events and special programming as needed.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Previous cooking experience in residential care, schools, childcare, healthcare, restaurants, or institutional settings preferred.
- Experience preparing meals for groups is highly desirable.
- Valid Food Handler Certification required.
- ServSafe Certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).
- Valid Illinois Driver's License preferred.
- Ability to pass DCFS background checks, fingerprinting, and all required clearances.
Knowledge & Skills
- Knowledge of nutrition for children and adolescents.
- Understanding of food allergies and dietary accommodations.
- Strong organization and time management skills.
- Ability to prepare meals for multiple individuals efficiently.
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation procedures.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Basic inventory and recordkeeping skills.
Physical Requirements
- Stand for extended periods.
- Lift up to 50 pounds.
- Bend, stoop, reach, and carry supplies.
- Operate commercial kitchen equipment safely.
- Work in hot kitchen environments.
- Maintain stamina during meal preparation and cleanup.
Work Schedule
This position may include:
- Morning shifts
- Afternoon shifts
- Evening shifts
- Weekends
- Holidays
- Emergency meal coverage when necessary
Schedule flexibility is required to meet the needs of the residential program.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in a group home, shelter, residential treatment center, or child welfare setting.
- ServSafe Manager Certification.
- CPR/First Aid Certification.
- Experience teaching basic cooking or life skills to youth.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles.
Why Join L.O.S.T., Inc.?
At L.O.S.T., Inc., our mission is to help youth heal, grow, and thrive through compassion, structure, and empowerment. As our Cook, you are more than someone who prepares meals—you are an important part of creating a safe, nurturing home where young people feel cared for and valued. Every meal is an opportunity to provide comfort, build community, and support the healing journey of the girls we serve.
If you are passionate about cooking, committed to excellence, and believe that food can bring people together, we invite you to become part of our team and help make a lasting difference in the lives of our youth.
Pay: $24.56 - $29.58 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Food provided
- Health insurance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
