Driver/Cook’s Assistant

Santa Fe County is a governmental entity dedicated to providing essential services and support to its residents, including senior citizens. The county is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its senior population by offering various community programs and services that promote independence, health, and well-being. One of the key initiatives is its Home Delivered Meals program, which ensures that seniors receive nutritious meals in the comfort of their own homes. This program plays a vital role in addressing food insecurity among older adults, helping them maintain a balanced diet and stay connected with community support services.

The role of Meal Delivery Driver and Senior Transport Assistant is an essential position within the Senior Services department of Santa Fe County. This role is primarily responsible for transporting home delivered meals to senior citizens across various locations in Santa Fe County using a county vehicle. In addition to meal delivery, the position provides transportation for seniors to attend medical appointments, social activities, and vacations, thus supporting their mobility and engagement in community life. The role also includes assisting seniors and individuals with disabilities by helping them safely enter and exit vehicles and securing any necessary equipment such as oxygen tanks, groceries, or wheelchairs. This position requires a high level of responsibility and care, including maintaining the county vehicles in excellent condition by performing routine cleaning, fueling, inspections, and basic maintenance tasks. The employee will work closely with kitchen staff, assisting in packaging meals and maintaining cleanliness in kitchen and dining areas to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.

This full-time position involves both indoor and outdoor work in various weather conditions and may require flexibility to work extended or irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Candidates must be physically capable of lifting up to 50 pounds and performing various physical activities such as standing, walking, stooping, and climbing. The role also requires effective communication skills to interact with seniors, colleagues, and the public, maintaining high ethical standards especially when working with vulnerable populations. Knowledge of defensive driving and safe transportation practices is crucial, as is familiarity with food handling and safety regulations. While not mandatory, the ability to speak Spanish is preferred to effectively communicate within Santa Fe County's diverse community.

Successful candidates will undergo a thorough pre-employment screening process, including physical examination, drug and alcohol testing, and criminal background check, all of which are county-paid. A valid New Mexico Class D Driver’s License is required and must be maintained throughout employment, as driving is a central function of this role. The county offers a supportive working environment with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the lives of senior citizens, fostering social connections, independence, and well-being through dedicated service.