Cook (Full-Time)

Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, located in Bakersfield, California, is a distinguished acute psychiatric and behavioral health facility with a 90-bed capacity, situated on 8.8 acres. The hospital specializes in providing comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services catering to children, adolescents, and adults who require treatment for mental and behavioral health conditions, chemical dependency, and co-occurring disorders. Our medically supervised detoxification program underscores the hospital's commitment to delivering quality care and support in a safe, compassionate environment.

The hospital's mission centers on fostering a workplace community that is not only one of the best in Kern County but also sets an exemplary standard within the broader behavioral healthcare community. Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital (BBHH) achieves this by offering outstanding benefits, promoting individual growth and professional development, and embedding its CARES values system—Compassion, Acceptance, Respect, Empowerment, and Sincerity—into daily operations. This nurturing culture cultivates a supportive and engaging workplace where employees feel valued and enthusiastic about their roles every day.

The dietary services team plays a vital role at BBHH by contributing to the overall wellness of patients and staff through the provision of nutritious and lovingly prepared meals. We believe that the care poured into preparing and serving food affects not just physical health but also emotional well-being. Consequently, we seek dedicated, compassionate individuals who bring their heart and expertise to the kitchen.

This position is perfect for someone who has at least three years of experience as a cook in a healthcare or similar institutional setting, such as hospitals or behavioral health facilities. Experience working within a mental healthcare hospital environment is especially valued. The role requires a strong adherence to kitchen safety protocols, precision in meeting tight serving schedules, and the flexibility to adjust recipes dynamically while maintaining the integrity and nutritional value of meals.

Candidates must be comfortable reading, understanding, and modifying recipe instructions, including the ability to convert and adjust measurements mathematically. Proficiency with commercial kitchen equipment such as slicers, mixers, and dishwashers is essential. In addition to culinary skills, prospective employees must show commitment to patient, community, and coworker wellness through reliable and conscientious work.

All applicants must hold a valid Food Handler's certification and either possess or be willing to obtain CPR certification before commencing employment. BBHH values the safety and preparedness of its staff, providing the necessary training for physical restraint techniques through the "Handle-With-Care" program as part of the orientation.

The position offered is hourly, non-exempt, and eligible for overtime, starting at $23.00 per hour for new hires. Employees benefit from automatic annual merit increases tied to performance evaluations, underlining the hospital’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence. Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital encourages applicants from all backgrounds to join our team, contributing to the vital mission of improving lives within the community.