Assistant Cook ; Part-Time

The Probation Department is a government agency dedicated to ensuring public safety and supporting successful rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals under probation supervision. This department operates several facilities and service programs that require the provision of quality food services to inmates and staff. It is committed to maintaining high standards of safety, hygiene, and nutrition throughout its food service operations. As part of its commitment to community safety and well-being, the department values every member of its team who contributes to creating a secure and orderly environment, including support staff in its food services division.

The role of Assistant Cook I is an entry-level position specifically designed to assist with routine food preparation and kitchen maintenance tasks within the Probation Department's food service operations. This part-time position involves performing lesser skilled duties under close supervision, making it ideal for individuals beginning a career in culinary services or those seeking a supplementary role in a stable government environment. The Assistant Cook I supports the daily preparation and service of meals to both staff and inmates, ensuring that food is prepared in accordance with therapeutic diet guidelines and departmental standards. Additionally, the role requires maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen by washing dishes, cleaning utensils, and sanitizing food preparation surfaces. This position is subject to variable work schedules including overtime, standby, callback, shift, weekend, and holiday assignments, reflecting the around-the-clock nature of food service in a correctional setting.

The successful candidate must be familiar with kitchen equipment such as microwaves, coffee machines, blenders, mixers, and meat slicers, and must be capable of handling basic food preparation tasks such as cleaning and prepping fruits and vegetables, making sandwiches and light desserts like custards and gelatins, and serving food in a cafeteria-style setting. Knowledge of hygiene and safety principles, as well as the ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately, are essential. The role demands physical stamina as it involves lifting weights up to 50 pounds, standing for long periods, and performing repetitive motions such as bending and reaching. The Assistant Cook I must also demonstrate a professional attitude, especially when interacting with inmates and coworkers in a secure environment.

Education requirements include a high school diploma or GED equivalency, along with passing a thorough background investigation free of felony convictions. The job requires a high level of trust and safety consciousness, where maintaining confidentiality and following legal standards is paramount. This position also offers veteran preference and emphasizes equal opportunity for all applicants. It provides a meaningful opportunity for individuals looking to develop foundational skills in food service within a government agency that prioritizes public safety and employee development. Overall, this role is a vital support position that contributes to the smooth operation of the Probation Department’s food services, ensuring nutritional needs are met while adhering to strict safety guidelines.