Cook

Bellingham, WA, USA|

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $21.68 - $25.75

Work Schedule

Day Shifts

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

staff discount

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401k plan

Paid Time Off

Employee assistance program

Job Description

Community Food Co-op is a community-owned natural foods grocery store dedicated to providing high-quality food, promoting sustainability, and upholding the cooperative business model. Rooted deeply in serving its local community, the Co-op prioritizes creating an inclusive, engaging, and supportive workplace for all team members. This approach is guided by the values of respect, integrity, and growth. As a cooperative, the organization not only emphasizes great food but also fosters a culture where employees feel valued, empowered, and part of a meaningful mission.

The Hot Bar Cook position is a full-time, non-exempt role classified under Union Level 3, reporting to the Prepared Foods Managers. The schedule is Monday through Thursday, 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm, with an hourly wage range from $21.68 to $25.75. This role is essential to supporting the Co-op's mission by preparing scratch-made hot bar dishes and deli items crafted from high-quality ingredients. Working within the Production Kitchen team, this position ensures that all hot bar dishes meet culinary standards of consistency, quality, and presentation while embodying the Co-op’s commitment to community nourishment.

In this fast-paced, hands-on role, the Hot Bar Cook is responsible not only for cooking but also for maintaining a collaborative kitchen environment that encourages inclusivity and teamwork. Duties include daily operational support such as inventory management, maintaining food safety practices, and offering creative input on seasonal menus. The ideal candidate is skilled in cooking techniques like sautéing, baking, grilling, and knife handling, has a strong eye for food presentation, and is passionate about working in a team-oriented, community-focused setting.

The Co-op values employees who show reliability, positivity, and pride in their work. The position offers a dynamic environment that balances creativity and operational responsibilities, making it a rewarding opportunity for culinary professionals eager to contribute to a sustainable and community-driven mission. With a union-supported framework, employees benefit from competitive wages, good medical and dental options, paid time off, and other employee assistance programs. This role is perfect for individuals who are adaptable, manage time effectively, and thrive in a culturally inclusive workplace.

Job Requirements

Solid cooking skills including sautéing, baking, grilling, and knife handling
ability to follow recipes and portion guidelines accurately
skilled in food presentation, garnishing, and creating visually appealing displays
knowledge of food safety practices and sanitation standards
ability to maintain a current food worker card
strong time management and attention to detail
flexibility and adaptability to kitchen challenges
effective communication skills
reliable team player with consistent attendance
willingness to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends

Job Qualifications

Solid cooking skills including sautéing, baking, grilling, and knife handling
skilled in food presentation, garnishing, and creating visually appealing displays
knowledge of food safety practices and sanitation standards
ability to maintain a current food worker card
strong time management and attention to detail
effective communicator and reliable team player with a positive attitude
ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends

Job Duties

Prepare, cook, and present a variety of hot bar dishes following Co-op recipes and portioning guidelines, ensuring quality, consistency, and visual appeal
monitor hot food for correct cooking times and holding temperatures to meet food safety and quality standards
taste and adjust hot bar items as needed to maintain flavor standards and customer satisfaction
refill and maintain the hot bar throughout the day, keeping it clean, attractive, and well-stocked
prepare additional deli items such as soups, salads, and entrees according to established recipes and menu guidelines
perform kitchen tasks such as chopping, slicing, marinating, seasoning, and mixing ingredients efficiently and safely
suggest new hot bar dishes or menu items based on seasonal ingredients, customer preferences, and culinary trends
collaborate with Prepared Foods Managers to ensure items are prepared consistently and align with Co-op promotions and goals
work collaboratively with other kitchen team members to ensure smooth, timely meal production
follow all food safety and sanitation guidelines, including proper handling, storage, labeling, and cleaning procedures
receive deliveries, verify invoice accuracy, and properly store food and supplies to maintain freshness and safety
stay up to date on deli promotions, featured items, and product knowledge
support front-of-house needs as required, including restocking and light customer interaction
perform other related duties to support team and department goals