FOOD CONTROL SPECIALIST - COOK - 67012761

The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is a state agency dedicated to supporting people with developmental disabilities. APD works in partnership with local communities to help individuals live, learn, and work within their environments. The agency provides a broad spectrum of services and support designed to help customers reach their full potential. APD's clients include people with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, Prader-Willi syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome, intellectual disabilities, and young children at high risk of developmental disabilities, in the age range of 3 to 5 years. The agency operates with a mission to empower and improve the quality of life for these individuals, providing services at no charge or co-payment. Their website, www.apdcares.org, offers more detailed information about their mission and services.

This particular opportunity is for the position of Food Control Specialist / Cook at the APD facility named Tacachale located in Gainesville, Florida. The role is a career service position with multiple vacancies and offers a biweekly salary range of $1,336.92 to $1,471.62, which amounts to an annual salary of approximately $34,760.00 to $38,236.00. The position involves preparing and issuing food within the food services department. This includes tasks such as requesting and verifying the quality of food products necessary for meal production, cooking and preparing a variety of meals following standardized recipes, and ensuring proper food temperatures and quality. The specialist is also responsible for maintaining high sanitation standards, appropriate food storage and waste minimization, and assisting with meal service logistics such as tray line operations and deliveries.

Those hired will be essential in maintaining the safety and well-being of residents by delivering quality, appealing, and correctly prepared meals. The role demands physical capabilities including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand, bend, crouch, and other manual dexterity tasks on a regular basis. Additional responsibilities include completing daily inventory checks to ensure all necessary ingredients and products are available for upcoming menus, working collaboratively with kitchen staff, and adhering strictly to safety and sanitation protocols such as wearing gloves and hair nets.

The State of Florida offers a comprehensive total compensation package that enhances this position beyond just the salary. Benefits include over 90% employer-paid health insurance, a $25,000 life insurance policy fully covered by the employer, dental, vision, and supplemental insurances at state rates, a state retirement package, generous vacation and sick leave, 10 paid holidays annually, tuition waivers for state colleges or universities, career advancement opportunities, and access to ongoing training. The role is significant due to its direct impact on the wellbeing of developmentally disabled adults residing at Tacachale, making it a position where individuals can make a profound difference in the lives of others rather than just earning a living.