
Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Compensation
Hourly
Exact $17.50
Work Schedule
Flexible
Weekend Shifts
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Employee assistance program
Professional Development
flexible schedule
Job Description
The Salvation Army is a well-established international movement and an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Guided by its mission to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs without discrimination, this humanitarian organization commits itself to embodying the love of God through its various outreach ministries across the globe. At its core, The Salvation Army combines its religious mission with practical assistance, delivering impactful services that support vulnerable populations and foster community wellness and self-sufficiency. The Older Alaskan's Program is one such initiative, focused on providing nutritious meals and essential care to the elderly population in Alaska, alongside supporting homeless families through shelters like the McKinnell House.
This full-time Cook position is based at The Salvation Army's Older Alaskan's Program and is integral to the preparation and serving of meals for both the Older Alaskan's Meals on Wheels initiative and the McKinnell House Homeless Shelter, which serves families with children. Reporting directly to the Lead Cook and Food Service Manager, the role involves assisting in food preparation and service following established menus while maintaining high standards of sanitation, food safety, and inventory control. The kitchen environment is dynamic and requires flexibility, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to quality and food safety standards. The Cook will ensure meals are prepared on time, suitably portioned, and adhere to the program’s nutritional guidelines to minimize waste.
Employees in this role work in a well-ventilated kitchen setting, operating diverse kitchen equipment such as stoves, ovens, steamers, mixers, dishwashers, and food storage appliances. Physical stamina is essential for this role, as the cook must be able to lift up to 40 pounds, perform repetitive movements like bending, standing, and twisting, and manage tasks that ensure the cleanliness and operational functionality of the kitchen. In addition to culinary responsibilities, the Cook is expected to participate in department meetings and training to stay aligned with organizational standards and safety protocols. This position, available as a 40-hour per week schedule, is non-exempt and requires reliable transportation and a commitment to the mission and values of The Salvation Army.
Overall, this job is well suited to individuals dedicated to community service and equipped with cooking expertise and a food-safe mindset. Successful applicants will engage with diverse populations, helping meet critical food needs through compassionate and professional service. Joining The Salvation Army means becoming part of a historic and impactful organization, working to alleviate hunger and homelessness while upholding Christian principles. This role offers meaningful daily contributions to vulnerable groups, a supportive team environment, and opportunities for personal and professional growth within a respected nonprofit framework.
This full-time Cook position is based at The Salvation Army's Older Alaskan's Program and is integral to the preparation and serving of meals for both the Older Alaskan's Meals on Wheels initiative and the McKinnell House Homeless Shelter, which serves families with children. Reporting directly to the Lead Cook and Food Service Manager, the role involves assisting in food preparation and service following established menus while maintaining high standards of sanitation, food safety, and inventory control. The kitchen environment is dynamic and requires flexibility, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to quality and food safety standards. The Cook will ensure meals are prepared on time, suitably portioned, and adhere to the program’s nutritional guidelines to minimize waste.
Employees in this role work in a well-ventilated kitchen setting, operating diverse kitchen equipment such as stoves, ovens, steamers, mixers, dishwashers, and food storage appliances. Physical stamina is essential for this role, as the cook must be able to lift up to 40 pounds, perform repetitive movements like bending, standing, and twisting, and manage tasks that ensure the cleanliness and operational functionality of the kitchen. In addition to culinary responsibilities, the Cook is expected to participate in department meetings and training to stay aligned with organizational standards and safety protocols. This position, available as a 40-hour per week schedule, is non-exempt and requires reliable transportation and a commitment to the mission and values of The Salvation Army.
Overall, this job is well suited to individuals dedicated to community service and equipped with cooking expertise and a food-safe mindset. Successful applicants will engage with diverse populations, helping meet critical food needs through compassionate and professional service. Joining The Salvation Army means becoming part of a historic and impactful organization, working to alleviate hunger and homelessness while upholding Christian principles. This role offers meaningful daily contributions to vulnerable groups, a supportive team environment, and opportunities for personal and professional growth within a respected nonprofit framework.
Job Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalency
- 2-3 years experience as a cook
- current Serve Safe certificate or willingness to acquire within 60 days
- current food handler’s card or willingness and ability to obtain within 30 days
- ability to manage time effectively
- ability to operate kitchen equipment
- willingness to work flexible hours including weekends
- reliable means of getting to place of work
Job Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalency
- 2-3 years experience as a cook
- current Serve Safe certificate or willingness to acquire within 60 days
- current food handler’s card or willingness and ability to obtain within 30 days of placement
- ability to manage time effectively
- ability to operate kitchen equipment
- willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends
- reliable means of transportation
- ability to understand, follow and give both written and oral instructions
- basic mathematical skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and applying ratios and percentages
- punctual, organized, self-motivated, flexible, and eager to learn
Job Duties
- Prepare appropriate foods, hot or cold, in a timely fashion according to pre-planned menu cycle
- assure meals are prepared and served with adequate measures and portion control to minimize leftover waste
- maintain quality food standards with respect to content, texture and temperature
- record all menu substitutions on the menu substitution sheet
- meet time frames with respect to production
- assure all foods are stored in a safe and sanitary manner
- use appropriate chemicals for cleaning and sanitation
- wash pots and pans using the three-pot sink method and operate commercial dishwasher safely
- ensure all pots, pans and utensils are thoroughly cleaned and stored
- clean and sanitize all equipment used daily, keeping the entire area neat and clean
- assure all food and other products are received and stored properly
- report equipment failures, breakages, or other kitchen/dining area issues to Lead Cook
- notify supervisor on duty of any problems or concerns related to stock levels and food spoilage
- participate and attend department meetings, trainings and other functions as assigned
- perform other related duties assigned by Food Service Manager or Supervisor on duty
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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