Cook Supervisor (Cook Foreman)

The United States Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is a federal government agency dedicated to the custody and care of inmates in the criminal justice system. The Bureau operates numerous correctional facilities across the country, focusing on creating a humane and secure environment while ensuring the safety of both the public and staff. The agency is committed to preparing individuals for successful reentry into society by fostering rehabilitation through various programs and services. Located in Springfield, Missouri, the BOP is currently seeking qualified individuals for the role of Cook Supervisor at the Medical Center Federal Prison (MCFP). This position is a full-time, permanent role with a salary range of $32.36 to $37.66 per hour, classified at the WS-08 pay scale grade.

The Cook Supervisor position at MCFP Springfield, MO, is a vital role responsible for overseeing and instructing a team of 25 to 30 inmate workers in food preparation duties including cooking, butchering, baking, dining, dishwashing, vegetable preparation, and pot and pan washing. The incumbent will provide ongoing training to inmate workers to ensure their knowledge remains current in all aspects of food production, presentation, and sanitation. This role also entails significant responsibility for food inventory management, including overseeing the receiving, storing, and issuing of all food and non-food items necessary for meal preparation.

Safety and security are paramount in this position. The Cook Supervisor must enforce security measures such as key control, yeast control, knife and blade control, and inmate accountability. Regular contraband searches are conducted to maintain a secure work environment. As part of their correctional duties, the incumbent shares responsibility with all other institutional staff in maintaining the overall security of the facility. These correctional responsibilities are the top priority and are performed routinely alongside their supervisory and food service duties.

Qualified candidates will have strong supervisory skills, the aptitude to work effectively with prisoners, and a thorough understanding of food preparation principles. This includes knowledge of cooking in large quantities, preparing various meats, poultry, seafood, vegetables, fruits, sauces, and gravies for both regular and modified diet menus. The role demands the ability to follow standardized recipes, plan and coordinate meal preparation, and make adjustments to food preparation procedures and seasonings as needed. Candidates must also possess a Food Protection Manager Certification from an ANSI-accredited provider, which is a mandatory requirement for consideration.

This position requires candidates to complete a series of screenings including pre-employment background checks, drug testing, physical examinations, and training courses such as the "Introduction to Correctional Techniques". A maximum entry age of 36 applies unless the candidate has prior federal law enforcement coverage. The Bureau of Prisons offers a comprehensive benefits package for federal employees including health, dental, and life insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and more.

Candidates interested in contributing to public safety while working in a correctional environment are encouraged to apply. The application process includes detailed requirements for documentation and veterans' preference, thorough background investigations, and the possibility of additional training. This position offers a unique opportunity to combine culinary skills, leadership, and correctional responsibilities in a federal institution dedicated to maintaining security and promoting rehabilitation.