Cook

The Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) is a vital government agency dedicated to improving public safety while providing court-involved youth with opportunities to rehabilitate and become productive members of society. DYRS achieves this mission by focusing on the strengths of youth and their families in a supportive, least restrictive, and homelike environment that promotes growth and positive behavioral change. With a commitment to public safety and youth development, DYRS is recognized for fostering a nurturing atmosphere that emphasizes rehabilitation through structured programming and comprehensive support services.

This position is located within the DYRS and serves as an intermediate cook in one of its finishing kitchens. The role primarily involves preparing fresh daily food items as well as tempering frozen and chilled meals for daily service. This position demands proficiency in preparing main menu entrees using standardized recipes and encompasses complex culinary tasks that ensure meals meet both regular and modified diet requirements. The intermediate cook will play an essential role in supporting the mission of DYRS by delivering nutritious, quality meals that cater to a variety of dietary needs, including diabetic, sodium and calorie restricted, low cholesterol, fiber restricted, and liquid diets.

The incumbent is responsible for performing multiple cooking techniques that involve the preparation of meats, poultry, seafood, vegetables, sauces, and gravies. Due to the nature of the kitchen operations, the cook must efficiently manage meal preparation that involves multiple steps and staggered ingredient combinations, requiring the use of several cooking methods and careful timing to ensure that different menu items are ready for service simultaneously. The cook will examine food for quality and freshness, adhere to standardized recipes, and adhere to cooking procedures to maintain food safety and consistency.

This role requires the cook to monitor cooking processes closely to ensure that completed food items are served at appropriate temperatures and times. The cook will prepare portions in accordance with distribution needs and check food carts to ensure proper food types and quantities are delivered to cafeterias and dining areas. The environment in which the cook operates can be challenging, with exposure to high temperatures, steam, cooking odors, and potential kitchen hazards including sharp knives and hot appliances. Flexibility in scheduling is necessary as the position may require being on-call for emergency situations and working variable shifts.

The employment type for this role is a career service term not to exceed 13 months, with the position classified under the pay plan RW-7404-07. This is a safety-sensitive job designation, and incumbents will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to D.C. Personnel regulations. While there is no known promotion potential, the position offers the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful mission while gaining valuable culinary experience in a public service environment. The position is part of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) union, and union dues may be collected. Candidates must meet the residency preference requirements and be prepared to maintain bona fide District residency for seven consecutive years. DYRS is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging all qualified candidates to apply without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, or other protected characteristics.