The Cook is responsible for all phases of the meal process for which he/she is scheduled, ensuring quality food handling, maintaining clean and sanitary conditions in accordance to Board of Health regulations. This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Interpret menu to ensure quantities include the possibility of second servings, and recipes to provide nutritious appetizing and good tasting items for the given number of people to be served. Ensure food preparation areas and serving areas are safe and sanitary utilizing best practice in food handling. Ensure quality of ingredients. In advance of the meal preparation, remove items from the freezer, and ensure there is enough time for it to defrost according to Board of Health regulations. Determine the necessary food and ingredients are on hand in advance of menu/meal preparation. Time management in meal preparation is critical to ensure meals are served on time. Be innovative and flexible to use leftovers, within approved Board of Health regulations whenever and wherever possible, to supplement or replace a scheduled menu item with Food Service Director’s approval. Ensure and put into regular practice good housekeeping, personal hygiene according to state health codes includes cleaning equipment, stoves, ovens, refrigeration, and other work surfaces/areas while preparing and storing food. Communicate with Food Service Director of any supply shortages, mechanical, structural repair needs. Assist the Food Service Director with planning and preparation for special events, cookouts, bag lunches, pack-outs to ensure the smooth operation of food service operations. Perform other job-related duties as requested and necessary. YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader): Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising. Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others. Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members. Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma or equivalent. Culinary school preferred. Minimum of three (3) years proven cooking experience in an institution or large kitchen operation. Camp operation a plus. Strong time management and organizational skills. Strong knowledge of utilizing kitchen equipment and tools. Strong knife/cutting skills; food preparation and presentation. Strong commitment to following all sanitation procedures. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build team spirit, communicate with all levels of staff. Ability to problem solve and take initiative that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA. CPR, First Aid and AED certifications may be required. Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle for transportation. PHYSICAL DEMANDS Must be capable of being on your feet for long periods with agility to move about and throughout the kitchen. Must be capable of bending, kneeling, squatting and lifting 30 pounds. Must be able to hear whistle or alarms. INTERNAL CANDIDATES: Current active employees of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges should apply via the Careers section of the Dayforce Employee Account.