INTERMEDIATE FOOD SERVICE WORKER- Emergency Appointment

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) is a vital law enforcement agency serving the expansive and diverse communities within Los Angeles County. Known for its commitment to maintaining safety, security, and providing critical public services, the LASD operates multiple facilities, including jail and detention centers, that run 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The department plays an essential role in public safety, emergency response, and community services, making it one of the largest sheriff's departments in the United States. In response to ongoing staffing shortages exacerbated by high vacancy rates, the LASD is engaged in emergency recruitment efforts in compliance with Assembly Bill 2561 to fill critical roles efficiently and maintain essential services.

This opening is for the position of Intermediate Food Service Worker within the LASD. This role is an emergency hire under Civil Service Rule 13.04 and is open for continuous filing beginning June 17, 2026. The recruitment aims to stabilize and accelerate hiring for key food service roles in high-need areas within the department’s jail facilities. Candidates who are selected initially will be hired for up to 90 days, during which their job performance will be closely evaluated. Those who successfully meet performance standards during this initial period may be considered for permanent employment with the county.

The Intermediate Food Service Worker supervises food service workers, including inmate workers, to ensure the proper preparation and serving of meals in the department’s facilities. This position involves a variety of duties such as operating standard kitchen equipment, performing light cooking tasks, monitoring cooking processes to meet safety and quality standards, and managing special diet preparations as prescribed by medical staff. Workers also handle the distribution of meals to various housing modules, dining areas, and patient rooms within the jail system.

In addition to food preparation and serving, the role requires maintaining sanitary conditions in the kitchen and dining areas by operating dishwashing machines, cleaning kitchen equipment, and managing waste disposal. The Intermediate Food Service Worker is responsible for inventory tasks like assisting in receiving and storing food deliveries and ensuring that all food supplies are properly maintained. The position demands direct interaction with a secure environment where inmates are present, working in close proximity to law enforcement personnel.

Shift work is an integral part of this role, with appointments requiring flexibility to work any shift, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Given the sensitive and secure environment, candidates must pass a custody facility security clearance, complete a thorough background investigation including live scan fingerprinting, and undergo a medical evaluation to validate physical capability for the job. A zero-tolerance policy for drug and substance abuse is firmly enforced.

Joining the LASD food service team offers the chance to contribute to essential services that support the wellbeing of incarcerated individuals and department staff alike. This role combines leadership responsibilities with hands-on kitchen duties in a uniquely challenging and impactful environment. Candidates interested in delivering service within a respected law enforcement agency and seeking job stability and opportunity for growth are encouraged to apply. Essential details regarding the application process, including digital submissions and document requirements, prompt communication protocols, and resources for applicants without regular internet access, are provided to ensure a smooth hiring journey.