Cook (Full-Time)

Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, located in Bakersfield, California, is an acute psychiatric and behavioral health facility with a capacity of 90 beds, nestled on an expansive 8.8-acre campus. This hospital specializes in providing inpatient and outpatient services tailored to children, adolescents, and adults who face mental and behavioral health challenges, chemical dependency issues, and co-occurring disorders. A key component of their treatment offerings includes medically supervised detoxification programs. As a leader in behavioral healthcare, Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital is committed not only to delivering exceptional medical and therapeutic care but also to cultivating a positive and supportive workplace environment for its employees.

BBHH is recognized for its dedication to being one of the best places to work, not only within Kern County but also across the broader Behavioral Healthcare Community. The hospital emphasizes a workplace culture grounded in its CARES values—Compassion, Acceptance, Respect, Empowerment, and Sincerity. These core principles guide daily operations and foster a collaborative, respectful, and empowering atmosphere for all staff members. By focusing on individual growth and development, BBHH creates an environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and inspired to bring their best selves to work every day.

The role of Cook at Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital is integral to the overall patient and staff experience. The hospital’s progressive and dedicated healthcare team understands that exceptional care extends beyond medical treatment to encompass the quality and care invested in the meals provided to patients and employees alike. As a Cook, you will play a vital role in preparing nutritious, safe, and delicious food that meets the specific dietary requirements of those receiving care and the needs of hospital staff.

This position involves working in a fast-paced kitchen environment where timing and precision are crucial. You will be expected to comply with a strict serving schedule, adjust recipes as needed to meet dietary and portion control standards, and handle commercial kitchen equipment proficiently, including slicers, mixers, and dishwashers. Attention to detail, strong kitchen safety skills, and the ability to read and interpret recipes accurately are essential. The ideal candidate will bring at least three years of cooking experience in a healthcare or similar institutional setting and demonstrate the capacity to adapt recipes and measurements on the fly to achieve consistent, high-quality results.

At BBHH, they value "Humans Who Care"—employees who not only meet the minimum qualifications but who also bring heart and dedication to their work every day. A high school diploma or equivalent and a valid Food Handler's certification are required. Additionally, candidates must possess or obtain CPR certification prior to starting employment; BBHH offers support to obtain this certification if needed. Orientation includes specialized training in physical restraint techniques known as "Handle-With-Care," ensuring staff are prepared to engage safely and effectively in critical situations. This role offers an hourly, non-exempt, overtime-eligible job with a starting wage of $23.00 per hour. Employees can look forward to automatic merit increases annually based on performance evaluations.

Working at Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital means joining a community committed to prevention, intervention, treatment, and education aimed at making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and the larger community. BBHH encourages individuals from all backgrounds and experiences to apply for the Cook position and be part of a team that cares deeply about health, wellness, and the quality of life of those they serve.