Lead Cook

Union Rescue Mission (URM) is a distinguished 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area, dedicated to alleviating homelessness and providing comprehensive support services to men, women, and children who are experiencing homelessness. Founded in 1891, URM is one of the largest and longest-established rescue missions in the United States, with a longstanding commitment to serving the vulnerable population of Skid Row in Los Angeles. By offering emergency shelter, transitional housing, and long-term recovery programs, URM seeks to restore hope and dignity to individuals and families afflicted by homelessness, while sharing the compassion of Christ throughout its work.

The role of Cook at Union Rescue Mission is integral to fulfilling the mission of the organization by preparing high-quality meals for men, women, and children experiencing homelessness. This position involves producing between 300 to over 1,500 meals per shift, depending on the location and occasion, including special event catering. The Cook works closely with program residents and volunteers, playing a pivotal role in the daily operation of an institutional kitchen by adhering to strict food safety standards and procedures. The role requires attention to detail, leadership in managing kitchen staff, and a passionate dedication to providing nutritious and comforting meals to guests.

The mission-centered approach of URM aligns with its core work principle derived from Colossians 3:23: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people." This mindset encourages a humble and service-oriented attitude while upholding high standards for work ethics and integrity.

The Cook position encompasses a wide range of responsibilities that ensure culinary excellence, food safety, and operational efficiency in the kitchen environment. Responsibilities include preparing weekly menus, cooking meals consistently according to approved recipes, maintaining proper food temperatures, and ensuring portion control and presentation standards. The Cook is accountable for food quality and safety, completing temperature logs, and enforcing compliance with ServSafe and health department standards. Maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in all kitchen areas is essential, along with promptly reporting any equipment malfunctions or safety concerns.

In addition to culinary duties, the Cook provides leadership by directing kitchen staff during shifts, delegating tasks, training apprentices, and fostering a respectful, calm, and professional work environment. Communication and teamwork are also vital components of this role; the Cook participates in regular meetings, shares feedback from guests with leadership, and communicates kitchen needs clearly to ensure smooth operations.

Guest experience is a priority for URM, and the Cook actively engages with guests to help them feel heard and respected. This includes supporting dessert and comfort food preparation to enhance guest satisfaction and contribute to a positive reputation for the kitchen and the organization as a whole. Commitment to URM's mission, vision, and Christian core values is a fundamental expectation, and the Cook encourages guests in their faith and personal growth.

Physically, the Cook position demands the ability to lift up to 50 pounds, perform repetitive manual tasks, and handle kitchen equipment safely. The work environment is clean, orderly, and ventilated, with noise levels considered low to moderate. Reasonable accommodations can be made for those with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job.

Overall, the Cook role at Union Rescue Mission offers a meaningful opportunity to serve a vulnerable community through culinary skill, leadership, and compassionate engagement, while working in a supportive nonprofit environment committed to transforming lives.