Head Chef - Agape Service Project

Agape Ministries, located in Bellingham, Washington, is a faith-based organization dedicated to serving the community through a variety of outreach programs and initiatives. As an extension of the Catholic Church, Agape Ministries fosters a mission-driven environment rooted in values of compassion, social justice, and community service. The organization operates several programs throughout the year, designed to uplift and support local families, including seasonal food service projects that directly impact the lives of farmworker families in the area. These efforts are driven by a dedicated team of staff, volunteers, and partners committed to making a tangible difference in the community.

The Head Chef position at Agape Service Project is a full-time role that plays a vital leadership and operational role within the seasonal food service program. The Head Chef works collaboratively with the Agape Service Project Director and Assistant Cook to manage and execute all aspects of food preparation and kitchen management within the context of a mission focused on serving the local parish, school groups, and farmworker families. This role requires a dynamic and compassionate individual who can build strong relationships across diverse groups, including youth volunteers, adult leaders, and the families served by the program.

The Head Chef is responsible for creating and implementing nutritious, delicious menus that accommodate dietary restrictions and prioritize local, organic, and fair-trade ingredients when possible. This position demands a high level of organizational skill, from ordering and receiving supplies to maintaining health and safety standards in compliance with local regulations. Monitoring kitchen cleanliness, logging temperature controls, and ensuring everything runs smoothly on a day-to-day basis are key elements of this role. Beyond cooking, the Head Chef actively recruits, trains, and supervises kitchen volunteers, fostering a welcoming and hospitable environment that encourages community building and teamwork.

Working during the summer season from June to August, the Head Chef will typically work between 20 to 40 hours per week with a schedule that includes evening and weekend hours. Compensation is set at $23 per hour with meals provided during work hours. This role operates on the campus of Assumption Catholic Church and School, where all meal preparations and services take place. Agape Ministries supports logistical needs including transportation for food and supplies.

Overall, the Head Chef role at Agape Service Project is not just about cooking and kitchen management—it is an opportunity to lead a vital, community-centered program that emphasizes service, leadership, and social justice. The ideal candidate will bring previous culinary and management experience, a servant's heart, strong communication skills, and a passion for working with diverse age groups and ethnic communities, particularly the local farmworker families. Certification in CPR/First Aid and Food Handling are required or must be obtained prior to the season. This role provides a unique blend of hands-on culinary work and meaningful community engagement, making it ideal for those who want to contribute their skills to a cause larger than themselves while building relationships and managing a vibrant seasonal program.