JOB TITLE: Culinary Support Specialist (I – III)
MAJOR FUNCTION: The Culinary Support Specialist (CSS) plays a key role in supporting the daily operations of a 24/7 medical respite kitchen, helping to prepare, serve, and maintain high-quality meals for patients recovering from illness or injury. This position contributes to a safe, welcoming, and trauma-informed environment by ensuring meals are nutritious, culturally responsive, and provided with dignity and respect. The CSS works collaboratively with kitchen and clinical staff to support patient health and overall well-being.
FLSA STATUS: Non - Exempt
REPORTS TO: Head Chef / Kitchen Lead and Operations Manager
Essential Functions:
Meal Preparation & Service
Assist in the preparation of hot and cold meals in accordance with established menus and recipes
Portion, plate, and distribute meals in alignment with dietary guidelines and patient needs
Support meal service, including tray assembly and timely delivery
Assist in accommodating modified diets and special meal requests as directed
Kitchen Operations
Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen, storage areas, and equipment
Wash dishes, utensils, and cookware; operate dishwashing equipment safely
Receive, label, store, and rotate food and supplies following FIFO standards
Support inventory tracking and restocking of kitchen supplies
Safety & Compliance
Follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection control protocols
Ensure proper food handling, storage, and temperature monitoring
Complete required logs and documentation accurately and timely
Comply with all local, state, and federal health and safety regulations
Patient-Centered Engagement
Interact respectfully and compassionately with patients, recognizing diverse backgrounds and experiences
Support a trauma-informed, harm reduction-oriented care environment
Respond appropriately to patient needs while maintaining professional boundaries
Team Collaboration
Communicate effectively with kitchen staff, clinical teams, and program staff
Support a positive, team-based work environment across shifts
Participate in trainings and team meetings as required
Other Duties
Assist with preparation and distribution of snacks, beverages, and hydration support
Participate in routine and deep cleaning of kitchen spaces
Perform other duties as assigned to support program operations
Qualifications
Commitment to working directly with low-income persons from diverse backgrounds in a culturally responsive manner
Strong attention to cleanliness, safety, and detail
Reliability and accountability in a 24/7 environment
Flexibility and adaptability across shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
Strong organizational, administrative and problem-solving skills, and ability to be flexible and adaptive to change while maintaining a positive attitude
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to prioritize tasks, work under pressure, and complete tasks in a timely manner
Ability to seek direction/approval on essential matters, yet work independently, using professional judgment and diplomacy
Works well in a team-oriented environment
Conducts oneself in external settings in a way that reflects positively on your employer
Ability to be creative, mature, proactive, and committed to continual learning and improvement in professional settings
CSS I Job Requirements
Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent (or equivalent lived/work experience)
Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)
At least 1 year of applicable work experience in a food service, community-based health care, or hospital setting
Other Requirements
CSS II Job Requirements
Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent (or equivalent lived/work experience)
Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)
2-3 years of progressively responsible work experience in a food service, community-based health care, or hospital setting or at least one (1) year of experience as a CSS I or equivalent position
Other Requirements
CSS III Job Requirements
Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent (or equivalent lived/work experience)
Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)
3-5 years of progressively responsible work experience in a food service, community-based health care, or hospital setting or at least one (1) year of experience as a CSS II or equivalent position
Job Preferences
Experience in institutional, healthcare, shelter, or high-volume food service settings
Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or complex health conditions
Familiarity with special or medically indicated diets (e.g., diabetic, low sodium)
Lived experience of homelessness, incarceration, foster care, mental health services, substance use services or addiction, or as a close family member of someone who has this experience
Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Access to reliable transportation
