Job Overview

moneybag

Compensation

Hourly
Exact $30.00
diamond

Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Employee assistance program

Job Description

Emmanuel House is a community-focused organization dedicated to providing vital support and services to individuals in need. As part of The Salvation Army's extensive network, Emmanuel House plays a critical role in addressing food insecurity and homelessness in its local area through comprehensive programs and compassionate service. The organization is committed to maintaining high standards of nutrition and hygiene while fostering a collaborative environment with volunteers and staff alike. Emmanuel House operates a well-structured kitchen that serves nutritious, well-balanced meals to its residents and program participants, emphasizing the importance of healthy eating and resourcefulness in meal preparation.

The Lead Cook at Emmanuel House is a pivotal role responsible for the planning, preparation, and delivery of high-quality meals that meet the dietary needs of the community served. This position involves supervising kitchen helpers and volunteers, ensuring that all kitchen operations run smoothly and adhere to safety and health regulations, and maintaining accurate inventory and ordering supplies. The Lead Cook collaborates with other supervisors and directors within the organization to coordinate meal schedules and support program activities.

This role demands strong leadership, culinary skills, and the ability to creatively utilize donated food items to produce appealing and nutritious meals. The successful candidate will also be responsible for training volunteers, managing food donations, and ensuring compliance with County Health Code requirements. The Lead Cook must be adept at planning menus that adapt to available resources while maintaining nutritional standards and must oversee special meal preparations for birthdays, holidays, and emergency situations.

Emmanuel House values dedication, organizational skills, and a team-oriented approach in its Lead Cook to ensure the kitchen's operation supports the broader mission of the organization effectively. This position requires physical stamina, the ability to lift significant weight, and a commitment to health and safety standards. Working at Emmanuel House means being part of a compassionate, mission-driven team that makes a tangible difference in the lives of those it serves. The employment opportunity is offered on an at-will basis, reflecting a flexible working environment that respects both employee and organizational needs. Experience in professional kitchen environments and knowledge of food safety certifications are essential to thrive in this role, which offers an enriching career path for culinary professionals dedicated to community service.

Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • valid CA Driver's license
  • experience cooking on a professional food service level for at least 3 years
  • obtain a Food Handler's Certificate within the first 30 days of employment
  • ability to lift up to 50lbs
  • background check
  • motor vehicle check
  • driver's license
  • ServSafe certification exam passed

Job Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • valid CA Driver's license
  • experience cooking on a professional food service level
  • food handler's certificate
  • ability to plan and develop menus
  • ability to creatively utilize donated food in meal planning and preparation

Job Duties

  • Plan weekly menus in advance
  • adapt menus based on available donated food and changing ingredients
  • order food and supplies on time based on menu needs
  • maintain accurate inventory and records of supplies and equipment
  • store, label, and rotate all food properly
  • inspect donated food for freshness and discard any questionable items
  • maintain a clean and sanitary kitchen that meets County Health Code requirements
  • follow proper procedures when using kitchen equipment and appliances
  • schedule and oversee a monthly deep cleaning of the kitchen
  • recruit volunteers to assist in kitchen operations
  • train and supervise the Kitchen Helpers and volunteers
  • submit required reports, statistics, menus, and evaluations
  • pick up food donations from assigned vendor locations when needed
  • follow proper food handling, transportation, and vehicle safety procedures during donation pickups
  • plan, prepare, and coordinate daily meals for Emmanuel House programs and residents
  • ensure meals are prepared, delivered, and served on schedule
  • plan and prepare weekends, holidays, and special event meals
  • prepare special monthly birthday dinners as requested
  • support emergency feeding operations during disaster response events

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


Job Location

Your Profile Is Visible To Hiring Managers Across OysterLink.

We'll match you with best jobs

Get job offers faster

Business woman
Business man
Search For More Opportunities:

How Candidates Get Hired Faster

Apply to 2–3 similar roles

Complete profile & get best matches

Check new opportunities daily

Woman chef
Man chef