Cook (Part-Time)

Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, located in Bakersfield, California, is an acute psychiatric and behavioral health facility with a capacity of 90 beds, spread across 8.8 scenic acres. This hospital is a cornerstone of mental health treatment in the Kern County area, providing specialized inpatient and outpatient services. These services cater to a diverse patient population, including children, adolescents, and adults who require care for mental and behavioral health issues, chemical dependency, and co-occurring disorders. Central to their care approach is a medically supervised detoxification process essential for patient recovery and well-being.

Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital is more than just a healthcare provider; it is a community dedicated to excellence in behavioral health care and workplace culture. BBHH is committed to being one of the best places to work, not only locally but also within the broader behavioral healthcare community. This commitment is reflected in their comprehensive benefits package, their focus on individual employee growth and development, and the daily integration of their CARES values system, which stands for Compassion, Acceptance, Respect, Empowerment, and Sincerity. These values guide all interactions within the hospital, creating an environment where staff and patients feel valued and respected.

The role of a Cook at Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital is crucial to the hospital’s mission of healing and nurturing. The hospital recognizes the importance of the food served to patients and staff as part of their overall care. As a Cook, you will join a progressive and dedicated healthcare team aimed at making a positive difference in the lives of patients by providing nutritious, safe, and delicious meals. The position is hourly, non-exempt, and overtime-eligible with a starting wage of $23.00 per hour for new hires. There is a structured pathway for merit increases based on annual performance evaluations, highlighting the hospital’s investment in its employees.

This role demands not only culinary skills but also empathy and heart. Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital looks for individuals who bring more than just technical skills—they want those who genuinely care about the patients and the community. Ideal candidates will have at least three years of experience as a cook in a healthcare or similar setting, with a proven ability to meet strict safety standards and rigid serving schedules. Flexibility in adjusting recipes and strong mathematical skills for recipe modification are essential. Additionally, proficiency with commercial kitchen equipment, including slicers, mixers, and dishwashers, is required.

Safety and preparedness are paramount at BBHH. The Cook must have a valid Food Handler’s certification and current CPR certification or be willing to obtain it before starting. The hospital provides training in "Handle-With-Care" Physical Restraint Techniques to ensure that all staff members know how to safely respond to patient needs when intervention is required.

Joining Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital means becoming part of a workplace community that values each member’s contribution and fosters a supportive and inclusive environment. Employees benefit from a comprehensive package that includes over three weeks of paid time off in the first year, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as unique benefits such as pet insurance and tuition assistance. The hospital also offers an Employee Assistance Program and a 401k Retirement Plan. This position offers not just a job but a career in a place where caring is a fundamental value and where employees are given the support to grow and succeed.