Dining Services III - Cook - Lookout Mountain Youth Service Center

The Division of Youth Services (DYS) is a vital part of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS), dedicated to providing comprehensive care, supervision, and rehabilitation services to youth involved in the juvenile justice system across the State of Colorado. Operating under a statutory mandate, DYS manages a continuum of residential and non-residential programs, including juvenile detention, assessment, commitment, and parole services. The agency operates ten secure facilities that cater to youth aged 10 to 21 who are either pre-adjudicated, sentenced, or committed to its care by the District Court. This proactive approach ensures that youth receive the necessary services, interventions, and custodial care while holding the objective of promoting their safety, rehabilitation, and reintegration within the community when possible.

DYS also oversees programs targeted at youth at risk of further progression into the juvenile justice system, including the management of Senate Bill 91-94, a state-funded but locally administered initiative designed to provide supportive services before major involvement in the justice system occurs. These efforts complement the residential programming by addressing the underlying behavioral, social, and familial factors contributing to juvenile delinquency.

Additionally, the Division administers juvenile parole services statewide, offering supervision and support to youth transitioning out of detention or commitment, facilitating positive outcomes, and reducing recidivism.

The Food Services Department within DYS plays a critical operational role by ensuring that all youth in care receive nutritious, safe, and appetizing meals that comply with federal programs such as the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. This department is dedicated to maintaining high standards of food quality, safety, sanitation, and inventory control while adhering strictly to DYS policies and procedures.

This job posting is geared towards Colorado state residents as required by the position and remains open until all vacancies are filled or until January 21, 2027, whichever comes first. Early application is recommended due to the ongoing review of applications as received. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in contributing meaningfully to youth services through a hands-on role focused on food production within a secure facility environment.

The role involves preparing food that meets nutritional standards and taste expectations; ensuring safety and sanitation standards are met; managing food inventory and supplies; supporting the security requirements of the facility; attending relevant meetings and training sessions; and performing related duties as assigned. Shifts occur between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. with possible requirements to work nights, weekends, holidays, or overtime to ensure continuous meal service coverage for the youth in care. The work is performed onsite at assigned locations and may be subject to changes in work arrangements.

Employees of DYS enjoy a robust benefits package offered through the State of Colorado that includes flexible retirement plans, comprehensive health insurance options, paid holidays, and wellness programs designed to support a healthy work-life balance. The agency emphasizes inclusive values such as respect, fairness, transparency, collaboration, and ethical conduct while fostering a culturally responsive and accessible workplace environment. It is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals and promoting equal employment opportunities regardless of background or identity. This commitment extends to offering resources for applicants who may need assistance during the application and hiring process.