Cook

Title: Cook

Department: Kitchen

Reports to: Kitchen Manager/Chef

FLSA Status: Full-time, Non-exempt

Position Summary

The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, high-quality meals for veterans residing in VVSD’s transitional housing programs. This role plays a critical part in supporting the health, recovery, and stability of veterans by ensuring consistent access to balanced meals in a safe and welcoming environment. The Cook operates within a trauma-informed, veteran-centered framework and upholds VVSD’s commitment to dignity, respect, and community.

Key Responsibilities

Meal Preparation & Service

• Prepare and serve daily meals for residents in accordance with VVSD meal schedules and nutritional standards.
• Ensure meals are well-balanced, appealing, and culturally appropriate when possible.
• Accommodate special dietary needs, including medical, religious, and recovery-related requirements.
• Maintain portion control and minimize food waste.

Menu Planning & Inventory Management

• Assist with planning weekly menus that meet budget and nutritional guidelines.
• Monitor food inventory and communicate supply needs to supervisors.
• Receive and safely store deliveries in compliance with food safety standards (FIFO, labeling, temperature control)
• Track food usage and support cost-control efforts.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Maintain a clean and sanitary kitchen in compliance with San Diego County Environmental Health standards.
• Follow all food safety procedures, including proper food handling, storage, and temperature logging.
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is properly used, cleaned, and maintained.
• Report on any safety hazards or maintenance issues immediately

Veteran Engagement & Program Support

• Interact respectfully and professionally with veterans, maintaining appropriate boundaries.
• Support a trauma-informed, recovery-oriented environment that promotes dignity and respect.
• Collaborate with case managers and program staff to support resident well-being.
• Participate in or support life skills programming (e.g., basic cooking or nutrition education) as needed.

Administrative & Team Responsibilities

• Maintain required logs (temperature, cleaning schedules, inventory, etc.)
• Assist with documentation related to inspections and compliance.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and VVSD events as required.
• Support other kitchen or facility needs assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum 1–2 years of experience in food preparation in a commercial or institutional setting
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
• Food Handler Card (California) or ServSafe Certification (or ability to obtain within required timeframe)
• Ability to prepare meals in large quantities.
• Ability to pass background check and meet VVSD hiring requirements.
   

Skills & Competencies

• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Flexibility in a fast-paced, service-oriented setting
• Commitment to VVSD’s mission of serving veterans in need.

Working Conditions

• Kitchen environment with exposure to heat, noise, and cleaning chemicals
• Prolonged standing, bending, and lifting (up to 40 lbs.)
• May require early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Salary : $21 - $23