Goal of Position
The Cook is responsible for preparing nutritious meals for youth and staff while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen operations. This position ensures compliance with all applicable health regulations, ServSafe standards, and agency policies while promoting a welcoming dining experience that supports the overall well-being of the youth we serve.
Reports To: Food Services Director
Status: Non-Exempt;
Location: Covenant House Pennsylvania
Responsibilities and Essential Duties
Food Preparation and Service
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Prepare and cook meals in accordance with established menus, recipes, nutritional guidelines, and food production procedures.
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Determine the quantity and type of food and supplies needed to meet daily meal service requirements.
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Ensure all food items are prepared, stored, and served according to food safety standards.
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Set up serving areas and ensure food is properly portioned and presented.
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Serve meals and maintain a positive dining environment for youth, staff, and guests.
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Accommodate approved dietary restrictions and special meal requirements when applicable.
Kitchen Operations
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Maintain inventory of food, supplies, and equipment and communicate replenishment needs to management.
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Ensure proper storage, labeling, and rotation of food products using First-In, First-Out (FIFO) practices.
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Monitor food quality and immediately address any concerns regarding freshness or safety.
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Operate kitchen equipment safely and report maintenance issues promptly.
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Minimize waste and ensure responsible use of food, supplies, and agency resources.
Sanitation and Safety
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Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local health department regulations.
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Follow all ServSafe food handling, sanitation, and personal hygiene standards.
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Clean and sanitize food preparation areas, kitchen equipment, utensils, refrigerators, freezers, and storage areas.
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Monitor food temperatures and maintain accurate temperature logs as required.
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Ensure a safe and sanitary kitchen environment at all times.
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Participate in inspections and corrective actions related to food safety compliance.
Documentation and Compliance
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Maintain required food service records, inventory logs, temperature logs, and sanitation documentation.
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Follow agency policies regarding food purchasing, storage, preparation, and service.
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Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.
Teamwork and Professionalism
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Collaborate with program staff to support the nutritional and dietary needs of youth.
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Demonstrate professionalism, respect, and cultural sensitivity in all interactions.
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Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
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Be flexible in meeting the changing needs of the program and youth served.
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Perform other duties as assigned by management.
Required Qualifications
Education
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High School Diploma or GED required.
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Culinary training or coursework preferred.
Certifications
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Valid ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification required or must be obtained within 90 days of hire and maintained throughout employment.
Experience
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Minimum of one (1) year of experience in food preparation, institutional food service, commercial kitchen operations, or a related environment preferred.
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Experience working in a residential, nonprofit, shelter, healthcare, school, or community-based setting is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
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Knowledge of food preparation techniques, sanitation practices, and safe food handling procedures.
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Understanding of ServSafe principles and applicable health regulations.
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Ability to prepare meals for large groups while maintaining quality and consistency.
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Strong organizational and time-management skills.
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
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Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills
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Ability to work with diverse populations in a trauma-informed environment.Stand and walk for extended periods.Use hands and arms to operate kitchen equipment and prepare food.
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Bend, stoop, reach, kneel, and lift as necessary.
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Lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
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Work in environments with varying temperatures, including refrigerators, freezers, and hot kitchen areas.
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Communicate effectively with staff, vendors, and program participants.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Covenant House Pennsylvania is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
