Food Preparation Worker

The City of Portland Barron Center is a vital part of the Health & Human Services Department, which comprises four distinct divisions: Barron Center, Elder Affairs, Public Health, and Social Services. The department aims to improve the health and well-being of Portland residents through collaborative efforts with community partners, as well as state and federal organizations. Specifically, the Barron Center operates as a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility with a rich history spanning over 200 years in the community. It is deeply mission-driven, focusing on resident-centered care that puts residents and their families at the forefront. The center adheres to high ethical standards, treating every individual with empathy, dignity, and respect for diversity. The team at Barron Center is committed to delivering exceptional healthcare services that exceed ordinary expectations, with a strong emphasis on performance outcomes in all areas of resident care.

The role of Food Preparation Worker at the Barron Center involves supporting the culinary operations that serve both residents and staff. This is a full-time position, offering 37.5 hours per week with shifts from 11 am to 7 pm, and includes Wednesdays and Thursdays off. The hourly wage is set at $19.53, classified under the CEBA Grade 5 union category. The position’s core responsibilities include assisting the Cook I in preparing food portions for various meal services, including tray lines, dining room meals, cafeteria, and daycare programs. Additionally, the worker will handle food preparation tasks such as ingredient prep, salad making, and assembling cold sandwiches. Responsibility extends to maintaining clean and functional cafeteria vending machines during after-hours and weekends. Key duties also encompass quality assurance activities, including monitoring food temperatures to ensure safety and compliance. This role requires the ability to work independently while managing workload pressures and meeting scheduled timelines. There may also be responsibilities involving cash register operations, handling cash and credit or debit card transactions.

This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent experience that provides foundational knowledge in food preparation, food safety, and sanitation protocols. Physical stamina is necessary to stand for extended periods and handle heavy cookware. The Food Preparation Worker must also be able to adapt to changing kitchen environments, such as transitioning between warm kitchens and cold storage areas. Being a team player with strong interpersonal skills is crucial in maintaining effective working relationships with colleagues, residents, and visitors. Experience in institutional food service is preferred, though not mandatory. The City of Portland offers an excellent benefits package including comprehensive health insurance, paid holidays, leave benefits, retirement plans, and more, aimed at supporting employee well-being and professional growth. The employer emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, creating a welcoming workplace for all individuals regardless of background.