Kitchen Staff

Position Title: Cook / Kitchen Helper
Department: Dietary Services
Reports To: Facility Administrator

Position Summary

The Cook / Kitchen Helper is responsible for assisting with the preparation, cooking, and serving of nutritious meals for clients and staff of the recovery center. This position helps maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment while ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation standards. The Cook / Kitchen Helper supports the recovery center's mission by providing quality meals that promote health, wellness, and recovery.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals according to approved menus and dietary guidelines.

• Assist with food preparation, including washing, cutting, and portioning ingredients.

• Serve meals and beverages to clients in a professional and respectful manner.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen, dining, storage, and food preparation areas.

• Wash dishes, utensils, cookware, and kitchen equipment.

• Receive, store, and rotate food supplies following food safety standards.

• Monitor food inventory and notify supervisors when supplies need replenishment.

• Ensure proper food handling, storage, and temperature control procedures are followed.

• Assist with menu preparation and special dietary accommodations as directed.

• Remove trash and maintain sanitation standards throughout the kitchen and dining areas.

• Follow all health department regulations, food safety guidelines, and organizational policies.

• Report equipment maintenance issues, safety concerns, or supply shortages to management.

• Work cooperatively with staff and maintain a positive environment for clients.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

• Previous experience in food service, cooking, restaurant, healthcare, or institutional kitchen settings preferred.

• Food Handler's Permit or willingness to obtain certification as required by local regulations.

• Knowledge of food preparation, sanitation, and safety practices.

• Ability to follow recipes, instructions, and dietary guidelines.

• Experience working in behavioral health, healthcare, or residential treatment settings is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong attention to cleanliness and food safety.

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent time management and organizational skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Dependable, punctual, and professional.

• Compassionate and respectful when interacting with clients and staff.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

• Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, and lifting.

• Ability to work in a kitchen environment with varying temperatures.

Work Environment

This position works in a commercial kitchen environment within a recovery center and requires adherence to all safety, sanitation, and infection-control procedures.

Equal Opportunity Employer:
The Recovery Center is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining an inclusive workplace for all employees.

Pay $15 per hour

Schedule: Full-Time / Part-Time; includes mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.