Chef - Neighborhood Center

University Settlement is a historic and highly respected social service organization dedicated to empowering New Yorkers on the Lower East Side and in Brooklyn. Founded in 1886, it holds the distinction of being the first Settlement House in the United States, and it has continuously evolved to meet the needs of its diverse community for over 135 years. The organization serves around 40,000 New Yorkers annually, focusing on fighting poverty and systemic inequality through innovative and effective programs. University Settlement is deeply committed to values such as civic engagement, equity, communal action, and social justice. Their comprehensive programs include early childhood education, mental health and wellness, benefits assistance, eviction prevention, adult literacy and education, healthy aging, community and recreation centers, performing and visual arts, and youth development.

The University Settlement Neighborhood Center located in Manhattan's Lower East Side offers a multi-service program for older adults aged 60 and above that includes case assistance, nutritious lunch service, health and wellness activities, as well as recreational and educational opportunities. The center’s food services team plays an essential role in ensuring that older adults receive healthy, safe, and satisfying meals every day.

The role available is for a part-time Cook who will be crucial in the preparation, cooking, and serving of meals to more than 200 seniors daily. This position requires a professional who is dedicated to maintaining excellent food safety standards and who can work collaboratively with the assistant chef, kitchen volunteers, and the program director. The Cook is responsible for ordering, receiving, and storing food items safely, monitoring refrigerator and freezer temperatures daily, and ensuring all kitchen equipment is cleaned and sanitized regularly. This individual will also contribute to menu planning in partnership with the Director, keep accurate digital food cost records, and participate in ongoing professional development opportunities.

The scheduling responsibility includes working 25 hours per week, Monday through Friday from 2:30 pm to 7:30 pm. The Cook must have a New York City Department of Health Food Handler’s Certificate, and prior experience in commercial food service is highly preferred. The role demands good physical health, the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, and some basic computer skills. Importantly, the position requires someone who can interact kindly with older adults and work well within a team committed to social equity and inclusion.

University Settlement strongly supports a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Their equal employment opportunity policy ensures fairness and respect for all employees regardless of race, color, citizenship status, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.