POSITION SUMMARY:
The Cook is responsible for planning and preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals for residents of Jeff's Path, utilizing the kitchen located in the café at the MY House Drop-In Center. Responsibilities include meal preparation, menu planning, food inventory, and maintaining a clean, safe, and sanitary kitchen in accordance with food safety standards. The Cook will coordinate with MY House staff to ensure consistent meal service that supports the health, well-being, and stability of residents.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Plan and prepare regular meals for residents of Jeff's Path.
- Develop menus that provide nutritious, balanced, affordable, and appealing meal options.
- Prepare meals using the kitchen facilities at the Drop-In Center café.
- Maintain food inventory, monitor supplies, and communicate purchasing needs.
- Follow established food safety, food handling, storage, and sanitation guidelines.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen and food preparation area.
- Accommodate dietary restrictions, food allergies, and individual needs when feasible.
- Coordinate meal preparation and delivery/pickup schedules with MY House staff.
- Minimize food waste through thoughtful meal planning and inventory management.
- Maintain records related to meal preparation, food inventory, and kitchen cleaning as needed.
- Communicate kitchen maintenance, equipment, and supply needs to the appropriate supervisor.
- Maintain appropriate boundaries and respect the privacy, dignity, and diverse needs of clients.
- Support a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment for clients.
SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:
- Knowledge of food preparation, meal planning, and basic nutrition.
- Ability to prepare healthy, affordable, and appealing meals for groups.
- Knowledge of food safety, proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices.
- Strong organizational skills, including inventory management and minimizing food waste.
- Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet meal schedules.
- Effective communication and collaboration with MY House and Drop-In Center staff.
- Flexibility to accommodate dietary needs, food allergies, and changing program needs.
- Ability to maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment.
- Demonstrates respect, compassion, and cultural sensitivity when working with young people experiencing housing instability.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience in food preparation, cooking, or kitchen operations preferred.
- Knowledge of basic nutrition, meal planning, and food safety practices.
- Ability to prepare meals for groups in an organized and efficient manner.
- Ability to maintain a clean and safe food preparation environment.
- Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills.
- Ability to work independently while coordinating with program staff.
- Demonstrated respect, compassion, and understanding when working in a supportive housing environment.
- Ability to obtain or maintain required food handler certification.
PHYSICAL, SENSORY, ENVIRONMENTAL QUALIFICATIONS:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to remain sedentary for prolonged periods of time at a workstation, may involve walking and standing for brief periods of time. Occasionally will exert up to 20 lbs. of force to move objects and files. Must be able to work under pressure to meet deadlines within assigned timeframe.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT:
MY House provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. MY House complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the organization has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Persons alleging unequal treatment should contact the Human Resources Department.
The undersigned have read this job description and agree that it defines the position as it currently exists. The undersigned also understands that the above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for this job. It is not to be considered as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements and does not limit the assignment of additional duties at the discretion of the supervisor.