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Food Servicer Worker/Cook (Part-Time)

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Part-time
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Paid Time Off
Professional Development
employee recognition programs
inclusive work environment
flexible scheduling
Employee assistance program

Job Description

Northern Children's Services is a distinguished organization dedicated to improving the lives of children, youth, and families through compassionate and comprehensive care. Recognized as a top workplace in 2026 for both Culture Excellence and Professional Development, Northern Children's Services exemplifies a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. This esteemed agency operates a Residential Dining Program which plays a vital role in providing nutritious meals and maintaining a healthy dining environment for residents under its care. With a focus on trauma-informed principles, the organization ensures a therapeutic atmosphere rooted in safety, nonviolence, and resilience, aiming to support staff and clients alike with empathy and understanding.

The position of Part-Time Food Service Worker/Cook at Northern Children's Services offers a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the organization's mission. This role involves preparing high-quality, nutritious meals in accordance with federal, state, and local food safety regulations, while sustaining a clean, safe, and sanitary kitchen. The ideal candidate is dependable, friendly, and self-motivated, capable of working both independently and collaboratively within a team setting. Working hours are part-time, ranging from 20 to 30 hours per week, scheduled Monday through Friday, with some flexibility based on program needs. The food service worker/cook is responsible not only for meal preparation but also for kitchen maintenance, inventory management, and adherence to stringent health and safety standards.

This position requires an individual with at least three years of experience in cooking or food preparation, a high school diploma or GED, and preferably current food safety certification or the willingness to obtain it upon hire. The role demands physical stamina, including the ability to stand for extended periods and lift or carry items weighing up to 50 pounds. Key duties include preparing meals using standardized recipes, ensuring meals meet quality and temperature standards, food portioning and serving, proper food storage and labeling, and equipment operation and maintenance reporting.

Northern Children's Services is deeply committed to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering diversity within the workplace. The organization adheres to all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, handicap, or mental disability. Moreover, the employer accommodates individuals with disabilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. This commitment to inclusivity and compassion is reflected in the organization's trauma-informed policies and its supportive work culture.

Joining Northern Children's Services as a Food Service Worker/Cook means playing an essential role in nurturing the well-being of vulnerable populations within a positive and engaging team environment. The position offers opportunities for professional growth while delivering meaningful service that impacts the lives of children and families in a profound way. If you are dedicated to food service excellence and want to make a difference in a welcoming, dynamic organization, this could be the perfect role for you.

Job Requirements

  • Minimum of three years of experience in cooking or food preparation
  • high school diploma or GED
  • current Food Safety Certification preferred or ability to obtain upon hire
  • successful completion of Pennsylvania State Criminal Background Check
  • Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance
  • FBI Fingerprint Clearance
  • ability to perform essential functions with or without accommodation
  • ability to stand for extended periods and lift items up to 50 pounds

Job Qualifications

  • Minimum of three years of experience in cooking or food preparation
  • high school diploma or GED
  • current Food Safety Certification preferred or ability to obtain upon hire
  • knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations
  • experience preparing meals for groups in residential, healthcare, school, or institutional settings
  • strong organizational and time-management skills
  • ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • excellent communication and customer service skills
  • dependable and punctual
  • commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming dining environment

Job Duties

  • Prepare meals in accordance with federal, state, and local food safety regulations and agency policies
  • prepare high-quality meals using standardized recipes to meet production and service schedules
  • ensure all food is cooked to appropriate temperatures and meets quality, taste, and presentation standards
  • perform food preparation tasks including washing, peeling, cutting, chopping, and portioning ingredients
  • portion and serve meals according to established guidelines
  • maintain clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen workstations, equipment, utensils, storage areas, and surfaces
  • properly label, date, wrap, store, and rotate food items following safety and inventory procedures
  • operate kitchen equipment safely and report maintenance needs or safety concerns promptly
  • complete required food temperature logs, sanitation records, and other documentation accurately and on time
  • assist with menu planning, inventory management, ordering, receiving, and stocking kitchen supplies
  • follow health, sanitation, and infection control standards
  • minimize food waste while maintaining quality and portion control
  • maintain positive and professional relationships with coworkers, residents, and visitors
  • assist with special events and catering as assigned
  • perform other related duties as assigned

Job Criteria

Experience

No experience required


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