Central Kitchen - Cook

Volunteers of America Northern California & Northern Nevada (VOA-NCNN) is a long-established nonprofit organization that has been serving the community since 1911. As one of the largest providers of social services in the region, VOA-NCNN employs nearly 400 dedicated professionals committed to helping those in need rebuild their lives and reach their full potential. The organization operates more than 40 programs, offering critical support in housing, employment, substance abuse recovery, and other social services aimed at families, individuals, veterans, seniors, and youth. Every night, VOA-NCNN provides shelter or housing to over 3,500 men, women, and children, demonstrating a deep commitment to community well-being and aid.

VOA-NCNN is on a mission to change individual lives by instilling hope, increasing self-worth, and facilitating independence through quality housing, employment, and supportive services. The organization inspires self-sufficiency, dignity, and hope by delivering vital health and human services to thousands of vulnerable individuals and families across Northern California and Northern Nevada. Recognized as a Certified Great Place to Work, VOA-NCNN values a compassionate and service-oriented approach in every aspect of its work.

The full-time Cook position is part of the Central Kitchen team located in downtown Sacramento, CA. The Central Kitchen staff prepare, package, and deliver more than 1,000 warm, nutritious meals each day to seniors, veterans, families, and residents of shelters who depend on these meals for nourishment and comfort. The role requires flexibility to work irregular hours including evenings, weekends, and some holidays to meet staffing and operational needs. Full-time employees working 30 or more hours weekly are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid holidays, vacation, sick pay, as well as health, dental, vision, life, and short-term disability insurance coverage.

As a Cook with VOA-NCNN, you will play a critical role in ensuring high-quality meal preparation and service to vulnerable community members in a compassionate, professional manner. The position involves daily food preparation tasks using appropriate cooking techniques and safety measures, maintaining kitchen sanitation and equipment, and assisting in the preparation of special diets. The Cook will handle a variety of food preparation duties such as mixing ingredients, cooking meats and main dishes, baking breads and pastries, and cleaning the kitchen area. Additionally, the role includes documenting food preparation processes and participating in inventory management.

Working of this nature requires adherence to program standards and policies, teamwork, and ongoing self-development including trainings and certifications like CPR and First Aid. Given the nature of the client base served, sensitivity to diverse populations and challenges related to homelessness, substance abuse, disabilities, and other social issues is essential. Overall, the Cook position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute meaningfully to community health while working in an organization that values service, respect, and support. The hourly pay rate is $22.92 and the employer encourages applicants who are committed, attentive, and eager to help those in need.