Cook

Star of Hope is a Christ-centered, community-funded, non-profit religious organization dedicated to serving homeless men, women, and children in the Houston area. The organization operates with a mission to pursue Christ-centered transformation, restore humanity and dignity to residents, embrace change, show love and respect, and strive for excellence. Star of Hope provides various services to those in need, including food services, shelter, development programs, and spiritual support to promote holistic rehabilitation and empowerment. The organization is committed to upholding its values and faith through every aspect of its operations, ensuring that both staff and clients engage respectfully and with a spirit of ministry.

The position of Cook at Star of Hope is vital in supporting the mission by preparing and cooking nutritious, healthy, and appealing meals. This role demands the preparation of high-quality food in proper quantities and presentations, adhering strictly to federal, state, and local regulations including USDA and City of Houston Food Service Certification. As a Cook, the individual will contribute directly to the well-being and satisfaction of clients, residents, guests, volunteers, vendors, and staff by delivering excellent customer service and ensuring adherence to all food safety protocols.

This role requires someone who is passionate about cooking meals that meet special dietary requests such as vegetarian or low-calorie options while following a USDA-approved weekly menu. The Cook will monitor and guide kitchen chore workers and volunteers to maintain health and safety standards, sanitize kitchen areas, manage equipment use, ensure proper stock rotation, and comply with temperature controls. The job includes responsibilities for paperwork related to meal counts, temperature logs, and cleaning checklists, and occasionally managing special events or banquets.

The Cook may also serve as the person in charge of the kitchen in the absence of the Food Service Manager, demonstrating leadership and problem-solving skills within a team-oriented environment. This position is not only a culinary role but also one that requires involvement in the ministry activities and a Christ-like approach to interactions with everyone. Working conditions include indoor kitchen environments with exposure to varying temperatures and use of personal protective equipment. The position requires flexibility in working shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, with a rotating schedule to meet mission needs.

Candidates must be prepared to work respectfully and professionally within a ministry dealing with individuals experiencing homelessness while maintaining required boundaries and a strong commitment to the organization's mission. The role requires medium physical work with frequent lifting, stooping, and other physical activities necessary to maintain kitchen operations. Star of Hope fosters a supportive and faith-focused community where the Cook can contribute meaningfully to life-changing service through competent culinary skills and a heart for ministry.