Cook II

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is a pivotal state agency dedicated to improving the quality of life for Texans through various programs and services. HHSC oversees an extensive network of health and human services including nine psychiatric hospitals, a youth residential treatment facility, and several state-supported living centers. Collectively, these institutions provide vital services ranging from forensic mental health care and complex psychiatric treatment to rehabilitation and residential support for vulnerable populations. HHSC champions a collaborative and supportive work environment where employees are valued and equipped for both personal growth and professional development. The agency also offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes 100% paid employee health insurance for eligible full-time employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous paid time off, and numerous opportunities for career advancement. Its commitment to workplace inclusivity and support extends throughout an employee's career journey, fostering a culture that appreciates hard work, teamwork, and trustworthiness.

The Cook II position at Big Spring State Hospital, operated under the HHSC umbrella, plays a crucial role in ensuring the nutritional needs of residents and staff are met with precision and care. This full-time, non-exempt role involves routine food preparation tasks required at a state psychiatric hospital setting, encompassing preparing, cooking, portioning, distributing, and serving food aligned with both regular and specialized therapeutic diets. The Cook II is expected to adhere strictly to prescribed menus, established recipes, and sanitation standards while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and Hazardous Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) guidelines for food safety. This position requires active participation in sanitation of kitchen and food preparation areas, ensuring all equipment is clean and safe for use, and handling food delivery duties as needed. While working under moderate supervision, the role allows some limited independent judgment and initiative in meeting daily food service obligations within a regulated healthcare environment. This job demands an individual who thrives in a fast-paced, structured environment and is conscientious about safety, quality, and compliance.

The role also emphasizes teamwork and adaptability, requiring occasional rotation of shifts, extended hours, or overtime to support hospital needs, including participation in disaster response or Continuity of Operations (COOP) plans. The Cook II position offers additional opportunities for earning extra pay for evening, night, and weekend shifts. Essential job functions include consistent attendance, preparation and portioning of food for special and regular diets, safe food handling, assisting with food serving when necessary, receiving deliveries, maintaining sanitation and organization of work areas, cash handling at the hospital canteen, record keeping, and communication duties. The position fosters an atmosphere of mutual respect and productive collaboration among coworkers and patients, essential in a psychiatric healthcare environment. Through this role, candidates contribute directly to the well-being and recovery of vulnerable Texans, upholding HHSC's mission to provide compassionate, innovative, and individualized care.