Food Production Worker II

Action Pathways, Inc. is a well-established non-profit organization committed to fostering community development and supporting families in need across Fayetteville, NC. Known for its diverse range of programs addressing health, education, housing, and nutrition, Action Pathways serves as a vital resource for thousands of residents. The organization's dedication to improving quality of life through comprehensive support services has made it a trusted name in the region. As a community-based entity, Action Pathways emphasizes inclusivity, sustainability, and tailored solutions to overcome challenges faced by vulnerable populations. The organization prides itself on creating a positive work environment that encourages professional growth, innovation, and collaboration among its employees.

The Food Production Worker II (Cook) role at Action Pathways is a full-time, non-exempt position offering an annual starting pay of $42,000. This vital position involves leading food preparation activities including making salads, vegetables, sauces, and more under management guidance. The role is essential in ensuring that nutritious meals are prepared in accordance with Head Start and Early Head Start program standards for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children. The employee plays a key role in overseeing the food production process to guarantee safety, quality, sanitation, and efficiency in all kitchen operations.

Candidates for this role must demonstrate dependability by arriving on time and maintaining consistent attendance. Attention to detail is critical due to the safety and sanitation requirements in food handling and preparation. Responsibilities extend beyond cooking to include inventory management, scheduling assistance, recipe standardization, stocking, and equipment maintenance. The cook is expected to coordinate the preparation and portioning of a variety of hot and cold food items, monitor food temperatures, and maintain accurate production records. This position requires strong communication skills to liaise effectively with management about any irregularities or concerns in food service or production.

Working at Action Pathways means being part of a supportive team committed to ensuring the wellbeing of children through high-quality meal service. The organization values employees who are proactive in contributing to production planning and who assist in the training and mentoring of other food production workers. The role also includes occasional travel for agency business using personal or agency vehicles and may require flexible working hours, including evenings and weekends to meet program needs. Physical demands of the position include lifting up to 50 pounds regularly and maintaining a safe, clean work environment.

This position is crucial for maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations, including adherence to sanitation and food safety protocols like the First-In, First-Out (FIFO) method for food storage. Employees must hold a current Food Handler’s License and First Aid Certificate and demonstrate proficiency in commercial kitchen operations, temperature controls, and public health standards. The role also requires familiarity with Microsoft Office software and the ability to manage computerized inventory data and reports.

At Action Pathways, employees benefit from a comprehensive benefits package that supports work-life balance and professional development, including zero-cost health, dental, vision, and life insurance for employees; a retirement plan with 100% employer matching; paid vacation, sick and personal leave; paid holidays; and opportunities for education assistance and professional training. This position offers not just a job, but a chance to contribute meaningfully to the health and nutrition of children in the community while advancing one’s career in a mission-driven environment.