Cook – Food Service (Full-Time or Part-Time)

Rose Brooks Center is a respected nonprofit domestic violence agency based in Kansas City, Missouri dedicated to providing safety, support, and resources to individuals and families affected by domestic violence. Established with a mission to break the cycle of domestic violence, the center offers comprehensive services including emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and community education. As a vital community resource, Rose Brooks Center emphasizes a client-centered approach that fosters healing and empowerment in a safe and supportive environment. The agency operates with a commitment to inclusivity, respect, and dignity for all clients, ensuring a compassionate response to the complex needs of survivors of domestic violence.

The Food Service Cook position at Rose Brooks Center plays a critical role in supporting the center's residential program by preparing and serving nutritious meals to approximately 60-75 residents and staff members on a daily basis. This position may be filled on a full-time or part-time basis, offering flexible scheduling options including weekend and holiday shifts. The Cook is responsible not only for meal preparation and cooking but also for maintaining high standards of kitchen cleanliness and organization in compliance with health and safety regulations. Reporting directly to the Kitchen Manager, the Cook collaborates closely with kitchen staff and volunteers to ensure smooth operation of food services.

In this role, the Cook will prepare meals from menus designed to meet the nutritional needs of the population served, accommodating special dietary restrictions as necessary. Cooking large quantities and managing supplies efficiently is essential, requiring knowledge of institutional food service practices such as recipe calculation, portion control, and proper storage techniques following "first in, first out" principles. Maintaining compliance with regulations from agencies such as the Kansas City Missouri Health Department, USDA, FDA, and Child Adult Care Food Program is paramount.

Further responsibilities include serving meals politely and professionally, overseeing proper clean-up procedures, and managing dishwashing and other kitchen sanitation tasks. The Cook must uphold excellent customer service standards, demonstrating respect and sensitivity when interacting with clients, staff, volunteers, and donors. Effective communication skills are essential for reporting supply needs and coordinating with the Kitchen Manager and the Director of Volunteer Services for special events.

Candidates for the Cook position should possess institutional food service experience, preferably in environments serving 50 or more individuals. A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred along with at least one year of related work experience. Certification or the ability to obtain a Food Handlers Managers Card or SERVSafe certification within 30 days of hire is required. Physical demands include the ability to lift weights up to 50 pounds with assistance and to stand for extended periods. This role contributes directly to the wellbeing of clients by nourishing them in a safe, welcoming atmosphere, supporting the overall mission of Rose Brooks Center.

Starting hourly pay for the position is $20, with an additional 5 percent shift differential for Saturday and Sunday shifts. The agency values a collaborative team environment, rewarding dedication and professionalism while making a meaningful impact on the local community through this vital food service role.