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Kitchen/Cook Associate New Start Trainee (87579)

HomeFirst
San Jose, CA Part Time
POSTED ON 8/21/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 10/21/2026

Position: Kitchen/Cook New Start Trainee

Location: Boccardo Reception Center (2011 Little Orchard Street, San Jose)                                         

Employment Type: Temporary, Part Time, Non-Exempt                            

Employment Term: 6 Month Term

Compensation: $27.98/Hourly                            

 This role is only available to current participants at our BRC location, no other candidates will be accepted at this time.

ABOUT HOMEFIRST

Established in 1980, HomeFirst™ is a nonprofit organization passionately working to end homelessness. We serve the Bay Area community through low-barrier programming and systems leadership – meeting each person where they are by offering support and resources that address immediate and long-term housing needs. With nearly 45 years of experience, we view housing as a fundamental human right and understand that solving homelessness requires a collaborative effort.

 

OUR VALUES

  • Kindness: We act with empathy toward others.
  • Passion: We ignite change to fulfill our mission.
  • Excellence: We deliver exceptional service to our communities.

 

POSITION OVERVIEW

The New Start program is a Training Compensation Program operated by HomeFirst. This program functions as a job readiness, hands-on work experience, and training program designed to help program trainee’s move toward long-term employment. You will participate in 4 hours per day, 5 days per week of mixed classroom learning and work-based activities for six months. 

This program is temporary and part-time. Your employment will end automatically when you graduate from the program. No long-term or permanent employment will be offered by HomeFirst as a result of this program. 

 

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

This role reports to the Shift Supervisor for the New Start Program. 

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIIBLITIES

    • Establish menus with guidance from the Food Services Supervisor
    • Prepare meals according to menus and food availability
    • Operate equipment such as ovens, stoves, slicers, mixers, etc.
    • Bakes, roasts, broils, steams, and uses a variety of cooking methods on meat, vegetables, and other foods
    • Maintain cleanliness and sanitary operation of kitchen, serving and storage areas
    • Assure that food is prepared, served, and stored in a safe, sanitary manner and in accordance with agency policies and procedures
    • Maintain and count food service inventory
    • Rotate food in walk-in refrigerators and freezer to minimize waste and spoilage (FIFO)
    • Follow all specifications and to properly set up hot and cold line stations
    • Perform all other tasks, including cross-training as directed
    • Notify Food Services Supervisor of any supply, equipment needs or maintenance issues
    • Attend and participate in food service meetings
    • Contribute to improving the kitchen and food services
    • Maintain excellent customer service and positive attitude towards guests, customers, clients, co-workers, etc.
    • Immediately report all suspicious occurrences and hazardous conditions
    • Other duties as assigned

 

 BENEFITS

This role does not have any benefits except for the California Paid Sick Leave (PSL). Sick Time applies as required by law, part time employees will accrue 1 hour for every 30 hours worked.   

 

ORGANIZATIONAL EQUITY STATEMENT 

At HomeFirst, diversity, equity, and inclusion guide our services, workplace, and decisions. Recognizing housing as a social justice issue, we prioritize equitable practices, honor lived experiences and uphold dignity for all. By fostering belonging, accountability, and continuous improvement, we embed DEI values in our processes, recruitment, and leadership, striving for excellence at every level.

HomeFirst is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. Additionally, HomeFirst participates in the E-Verify program, as required by law.

HomeFirst is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please let your recruiter know.

 

 

 

 

 

Qualifications:

QUALIFICATIONS (YOU HAVE) 

  • Entry Level position
  • Food serving certification
  • High school diploma or GED (preferred)
  • Some kitchen or dishwashing experience (preferred but not required)

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to stand and move for extended periods
  • Comfortable working in wet, hot, and humid environments
  • Able to bend, stoop, lift, and reach repeatedly throughout shift

Salary : $28

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