The Chef is responsible for preparing nutritious, high-quality meals for the Natchez Street Café and Meals on Wheels of Northeast Kansas in accordance with agency standards and all applicable local, state, and federal food safety, sanitation, and nutrition regulations. The Chef oversees meal preparation and production, ensuring meals are prepared according to approved menus, accurately packaged for delivery, and completed on schedule to meet daily service and delivery requirements. This position is responsible for maintaining a safe, clean, and organized kitchen. The Chef coordinates daily kitchen operations while ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and agency standards. The Chef must demonstrate strong culinary skills, utilize a variety of cooking techniques and methods, manage multiple food preparation tasks efficiently, and maintain the highest standards of food quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.
STATUS: Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO: Nutrition Coordinator
HOURS OF WORK: Monday – Friday, irregular hours including call hours
ESSENIAL DUTIES:
· Prepares nutritious, high-quality meals for both the Natchez Street Café and Meals on Wheels program.
· Ensures compliance with agency, local, state and federal food safety, sanitation, nutrition and dietary requirements.
· Plans menus that meet Older Americans Act nutrition standards (where applicable).
· Meets daily delivery schedules for Meals on Wheels of Northeast Kansas
· Prepares and assembles ingredients for menu items.
· Stores excess food at the correct temperature in order to avoid spoilage.
· Ensures that food portions and food presentation meet agency standards.
· Controls inventory and purchasing. Monitors supplies and re-ordering stock as needed.
· Ensures that cooking utensils are clean before each use.
· Cleans and sterilizes food preparation areas.
· Ensures that food orders are completed in a timely manner.
· Efficiently resolves problems with customers’ orders.
· Maintains accurate records related to food production, inventory, employees, and customer service.
· Works collaboratively with the Nutrition Coordinator.
· Creates a welcoming dining experience for older adults and the broader community.
· Communicates clearly with staff.
· Learns use and maintenance of all kitchen equipment.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
· High school diploma or GED.
· ServSafe food handling certification is preferred. Must be willing to acquire
· Sound knowledge of cooking methods and techniques.
· The ability to follow recipes.
· The ability to work in a team.
· The ability to stand for extended periods of time.
· Effective communication skills.
· Demonstrates excellent time management skills
· Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
· Preferred 3 years’ experience in a commercial kitchen or equivalent
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
· Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting.
· Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
· Ability to work safely in a fast-paced kitchen environment with exposure to heat, sharp utensils, and commercial kitchen equipment.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
Work Location: In person
