Assistant Chef

Hartford, CT, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Exact $23.67

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

401k

Life insurance

short-term disability

long-term disability

Paid vacation

Paid personal time

Paid sick time

Paid holidays

Employee wellness programs

Job Description

Community Partners in Action (CPA) is one of the oldest organizations dedicated to criminal justice reform in the United States, having been founded nearly 150 years ago. CPA serves as a beacon of hope and advocacy for individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, promoting dignity and respect for all. The agency operates a variety of programs throughout Connecticut, supporting over 4,000 individuals annually through initiatives like reentry services, housing, youth programs, a nationally recognized Prison Arts Program, and other innovative alternatives to incarceration. CPA is deeply committed to fostering a culture of Belonging, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (BEDI), continuously working to build an inclusive and equitable workplace that actively combats racial inequities within the justice system. Employees at CPA are part of a mission-driven team focused on transforming not just individuals, but society at large, through compassionate, informed interventions and advocacy.

The Assistant Chef role is situated within the REGIONS Staff Secure Residential Treatment Program located in Hartford, Connecticut. This specialized program serves up to eight male youth, many of whom have experienced trauma and are in varying stages of involvement with the juvenile justice system. The program provides a structured, home-like therapeutic environment fueled by evidence-based approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and trauma-informed care. The goal is to help youth develop social, emotional, and physical well-being within a framework tailored to their cultural, linguistic, and gender-specific needs. As an Assistant Chef, the individual will play a crucial role in supporting these youths' recovery and daily living by preparing approximately 200 healthy, home-like meals each day in conjunction with the lead Chef. This position is not only about culinary skills but also about vocational training, providing the youth with valuable skills and encouraging positive behaviors. The Assistant Chef must ensure all food preparation complies with the State of Connecticut’s food service regulations and Department of Health standards, maintain cleanliness and sanitation, and foster fire safety. This role operates on a Sunday through Thursday schedule from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with Fridays and Saturdays off, and offers a competitive hourly wage of $23.66.

Working at CPA offers a rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable young individuals while being supported by a strong organizational culture and comprehensive benefits including medical and dental insurance, 401k eligibility, life insurance, and generous paid time off. The Assistant Chef will be part of a team dedicated to systemic change and the betterment of communities through criminal justice reform, embodying CPA’s values and commitment to equity and inclusion.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or GED
at least one year of experience with food ordering and meal preparation in a group setting
clear understanding of the State of Connecticut’s food service regulations and meeting Department of Health standards
certified qualified food operator or able to qualify
capacity to provide vocational training to youth
ability to interact with multicultural populations
strong decision making, communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
adaptability, flexibility, resourcefulness and emotional intelligence
belief that people can change and deserve quality services
valid Connecticut driver’s license and reliable transportation
willingness to work flexible schedule including weekends and holidays
bilingual English/Spanish preferred

Job Qualifications

High school diploma or GED
at least one year of experience with food ordering and meal preparation in a group setting
understanding of the State of Connecticut’s food service regulations
certified qualified food operator or able to qualify
ability to instruct staff in food preparation
capacity to provide vocational training to youth
ability to interact with multi-cultural populations
strong decision making, communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
adaptability, flexibility, resourcefulness and emotional intelligence
belief in the capacity for change and commitment to providing quality services
valid Connecticut driver’s license and reliable transportation
bilingual English/Spanish preferred

Job Duties

Assist chef in planning and preparing approximately 200 healthy and home-like meals daily
assist with inventory and preparing food orders as requested
follow dietary guidelines as determined by licensed dietician
maintain sanitation in accordance with agency specifications and the Health Department
monitor fire safety standards in accordance with local and state law
provide vocational training to youth on food service and safe food handling procedures
comply with all program policies and procedures
establish and maintain professional boundaries with all staff and youth
serve as a role model to youth and staff modeling pro-social behavior
participate in all required training
perform all other duties as required