Chef

Akua Behavioral Health is a renowned mental health and substance abuse treatment center in California, recognized for its compassionate and comprehensive care. As a leader in behavioral healthcare, Akua Behavioral Health offers individualized treatment plans crafted by Master's and Doctorate level clinicians. These treatments span various levels of care and are provided at fully licensed and accredited facilities across Northern and Southern California. The center uniquely integrates a holistic East-meets-West methodology, combining proven Western evidence-based therapies with traditional Eastern practices. This approach ensures a multi-dimensional focus on the mind, body, and spirit to foster lasting recovery and well-being for each client. The organization's mission centers on creating a nurturing environment that supports healing and transformative change for those seeking mental health and substance abuse solutions.

The role of Chef at Akua Behavioral Health is a pivotal position contributing directly to the health and wellness of the clients. This full-time, hourly, non-exempt position offers competitive compensation in the range of $25 to $27 per hour. The work schedule is Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the possibility of overtime when necessary. As a Chef in this specialized environment, you will be responsible for planning and submitting weekly lunch and dinner menus that cater to a diverse group of up to 90 clients. Your menus must align with nutritional guidelines and program requirements, ensuring variety and dietary accommodations.

Beyond menu creation, you will oversee food ordering within a strict per-client food budget and manage kitchen operations to emphasize food safety, inventory control, and waste reduction. Responsibilities extend to meticulous preparation and execution of meals, including weekend meal services, with detailed reheating instructions to maintain meal quality and consistency. The role also involves completing daily temperature logs, managing expense reports through the Brex platform, and safely delivering meals using company vehicles when required. This position demands a high level of physical stamina and commitment, including mandatory weekend availability and the ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds. Your contribution as a Chef is integral to supporting the care environment at Akua Behavioral Health, enhancing each client's recovery journey through nutritious, safe, and enjoyable meals tailored to multiple dietary needs such as vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, gluten-free, low sodium, and diabetic-friendly options. This role offers a unique opportunity to combine culinary skills with a meaningful mission dedicated to behavioral health and recovery.