Recovery Kitchen Cook

Columbia Ability Alliance

Job Description

Job Title: Cook

Department: Opportunity Kitchen - Recovery Center

Reports To: Executive Chef

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Prepared Date: January 2026

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Columbia Ability Alliance (CAA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination based on any status protected by federal, Washington State, or local law. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

Job Summary

The Cook supports all food service operations within the Recovery Center by preparing, cooking, catering, and serving nutritious, appealing meals in accordance with established menus, dietary guidelines, food safety standards, and recovery-oriented programming requirements. Working under the direction of the Executive Chef, this position contributes to a therapeutic kitchen environment that supports client wellness, structure, and skill development while maintaining compliance with all facility, local, state, and federal regulations.

Cooks also support public and private catering events by preparing and serving food according to established standards, assisting with event setup and breakdown, maintaining food safety and sanitation requirements, and representing the organization professionally during all catering activities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals in accordance with approved menus, recipes, portion control standards, and dietary requirements.
• Ensure meals meet established food safety, sanitation, and temperature standards prior to service.
• Maintain compliance with all local, state, and federal health regulations, including proper food handling and storage procedures.
• Support daily kitchen operations by maintaining clean and sanitary workstations, equipment, storage, and service areas.
• Assist with receiving, labeling, rotating, and storing food and supplies using FIFO practices.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and kitchen team to ensure timely meal production and service.
• Function as a working member of the food service team and actively participate in food production activities.
• Support the integration of trainees into the kitchen production environment by modeling appropriate workplace behavior and food service practices.
• Maintain a positive, respectful, and recovery-oriented kitchen environment.
• Follow all facility safety procedures, emergency protocols, and infection control practices.
• Report equipment issues, safety concerns, and supply needs to the Executive Chef in a timely manner.

Catering and Special Events Support (Cooks / Kitchen Staff)

• Assist with the preparation, cooking, and packaging of food for public and private catering events under the direction of the Executive Chef.
• Follow standardized recipes, portioning guidelines, and presentation standards to ensure consistency and quality.
• Support event setup, service, and breakdown, including loading, unloading, and proper handling of food and equipment.
• Maintain food safety, sanitation, and temperature control standards during all catering activities.
• Work collaboratively with kitchen staff and trainees to meet production timelines and event requirements.
• Participate in catering-related cleaning, organization, and inventory tasks before and after events.
• Represent the organization professionally during public-facing events.
• Demonstrate flexibility in work schedule, including evenings or weekends, as required for catering operations.

Preferred Qualifications

Education and Certification

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

Required Qualifications

• WA Food Handler's Certificate required (or ability to obtain within required timeframe).

Experience

• Previous cooking or food service experience preferred.
• Experience in healthcare, residential, institutional, or recovery-oriented settings is a plus.
• Experience supporting workforce development or training environments is beneficial.

Skills and Competencies

• Knowledge of basic culinary techniques, food safety, and sanitation practices.
• Ability to follow written menus, recipes, and production schedules.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a structured, recovery-oriented environment.
• Dependability, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, bend, reach, and work in a high-temperature kitchen environment. May require weekend or holiday work based on assigned schedule. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.