Food Service Lead - Cook Coordinator

The Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC) is a state agency dedicated to transforming lives for a safer Minnesota. DOC holds individuals accountable for offenses while providing them with the necessary tools and support to succeed as they transition back into the community. Their approach is inclusive, focusing on equity and inclusion, and aims to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The agency offers employees meaningful careers with opportunities for professional growth, competitive pay, excellent benefits, free parking, and access to workout facilities at most locations. DOC prides itself on fostering a workplace culture where employees share a sense of purpose, connection, and opportunities for personal and professional development.

The Food Service Lead - Cook Coordinator position at the Minnesota Correctional Facility in Lino Lakes is a full-time, unlimited classified role with a salary range of $22.40 to $30.89 hourly, or $46,771 to $64,498 annually. This role is integral to the facility’s food service operations, providing leadership and direction to incarcerated workers involved in meal preparation, presentation, handling, serving, and cleanup. The Cook Coordinator ensures that meals meet established quality, nutrition standards, and service timelines, while maintaining safety, sanitation, and security within the food service areas. Shifts vary, including early mornings to evening hours, with rotating work schedules that allow for weekends off during pay periods. The position requires candidates to possess a passion for food and a commitment to providing excellent service in a secure environment.

This role demands a hands-on leader who can manage high-volume food production in a correctional setting, balancing operational efficiency with compliance to health and safety regulations. The Cook Coordinator collaborates with the Food Services Supervisor and other team members to enforce safety protocols and maintain a secure environment. Employees benefit from retirements plans, paid holidays, vacation, sick leave, and access to low-cost health, dental, and vision insurance plans. Additionally, the DOC provides extensive employee support programs including professional development opportunities, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and resources to promote physical, emotional, social, and financial wellbeing. This position requires a background check, successful completion of training such as ServSafe Food Manager Certification, and may involve physical demands including standing, walking, bending, and carrying throughout the work shift. The DOC is a veteran-friendly employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. Qualified candidates interested in joining a dedicated team that serves the community while building a rewarding career are encouraged to apply.