Assistant Chef - Per Diem

Community Partners in Action (CPA) is one of the oldest and most respected organizations in the United States dedicated to criminal justice reform and advocacy. Founded nearly 150 years ago, CPA has a long-standing history of championing the dignity and rights of individuals both during incarceration and after reentry into society. The agency offers a broad range of programs including reentry and housing support, youth initiatives, a nationally recognized Prison Arts Program, and various holistic alternatives to incarceration. Serving more than 4,000 individuals annually across Connecticut, CPA collaborates with government entities, private funders, community organizations, and businesses to create lasting positive social impact. The organization embraces a culture defined by BEDI — Belonging, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion — which fosters an inclusive and equitable workplace dedicated to addressing racial inequities and promoting justice in Connecticut’s criminal justice system. More information on their BEDI culture can be found at cpa-ct.org/our-bedi-journey.

The Assistant Chef-Per Diem position is based within CPA's REGIONS Staff Secure Residential Treatment Program for male youth in Hartford, Connecticut. This residential program serves up to eight male youth, many of whom face complex challenges and are involved in the juvenile justice system. The program employs a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) trauma-informed, culturally responsive, gender-specific, and strengths-based approach to create a therapeutic environment. The goal is to support youth in improving their social, emotional, and physical well-being, breaking the cycle of offending, and preventing their transition into adult justice systems. The program emphasizes individualized care, promoting positive self-image, coping skills, confidence building, behavioral changes, and successful reintegration into the community.

The Assistant Chef-Per Diem will play a vital role in supporting the kitchen team with the planning, preparation, and delivery of approximately 200 healthy, home-style meals daily to the youth in this residential program. The position requires an understanding of Connecticut food service regulations and strong commitment to food safety and hygiene standards. This is a per diem role offering $23.66 per hour, requiring flexibility to work weekends and holidays. Candidates who are bilingual in English and Spanish or have lived experience related to the population served are especially encouraged to apply.

This role also involves vocational training responsibilities, where the Assistant Chef will engage youth in food service education and safe food handling practices, fostering transferable skills for future employment. Due to the nature of the residential treatment environment, the position requires adaptability, emotional intelligence, and the ability to maintain professional boundaries while modeling positive social behavior. Candidates should be prepared to participate in a mandatory 120-hour training curriculum within the first year, covering ethics, suicide prevention, CPR, safe crisis management, and other relevant topics.

The work environment may involve exposure to challenging behaviors and potential risks associated with youth in residential treatment, underscoring the importance of safety protocols and de-escalation techniques. The Assistant Chef-Per Diem’s contribution is key to the program’s holistic mission of supporting youth toward healthier futures and reducing public safety risks through compassionate and professional care.