Lead Cook

The Salvation Army is a globally recognized charitable organization devoted to providing humanitarian aid, community support, and social services to vulnerable populations. Known for its comprehensive programs that encompass disaster relief, homelessness assistance, and food security initiatives, The Salvation Army operates with a mission to meet human needs without discrimination. This esteemed nonprofit organization has a deep-rooted presence in communities across the United States, including Colorado, and it fosters an environment where compassion, respect, and volunteerism are paramount. Over the years, The Salvation Army has established itself as a trusted resource for seniors, veterans, families, and individuals experiencing hardship, offering services that boost quality of life and promote dignity. Working at The Salvation Army means being part of a legacy of service, integrity, and community impact.

This Full-Time, non-exempt Lead Cook position offers an hourly wage of $19.88 and reports directly to the Café Manager. The schedule is Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, providing a stable and predictable work environment. The Lead Cook plays a central role in preparing, setting up, and cleaning up meals that support multiple community-focused programs including services for seniors, veterans, and families through various initiatives such as the Family Hope Center. The position demands a high standard of customer service and the ability to work collaboratively with and direct volunteers effectively.

Beyond culinary preparation, this role is essential for maintaining food safety and sanitation standards as per health department regulations. The Lead Cook ensures that the kitchen, walk-in refrigerator and freezer, dry storage, and canteen areas are consistently clean, organized, labeled, and properly stocked. They oversee the sorting and packaging of donated food items such as meat, managing these resources to optimize distribution and minimize waste. The role requires a working knowledge of USDA guidelines for meal planning, incorporating donated ingredients into balanced menus that meet the nutritional needs of program participants.

Another vital aspect of this role is supervising volunteers and kitchen personnel by providing training on proper cooking techniques, food safety practices, sanitation measures, and workplace safety protocols. The Lead Cook collaborates closely with the Volunteer Coordinator to track volunteer hours and ensure all required documentation is completed timely. Additionally, the individual may be cross-trained to provide managerial coverage for the Colorado Café during absences, highlighting the leadership opportunities within the role.

The ideal candidate brings experience in institutional cooking along with a valid food card certificate compliant with Health Department standards. This role requires someone who is self-directed, capable of interpreting recipes accurately, and skilled at handling a fast-paced kitchen environment while serving a diverse population with professionalism. Qualities such as teamwork, high integrity, and a personable attitude aligned with The Salvation Army’s mission are essential to success. The organization offers a competitive benefits package, including health, vision, dental, life, and disability insurance, as well as vacation, sick leave, floating days off, and pension plans. The Lead Cook position represents a meaningful opportunity to make a tangible difference in the community while growing one’s culinary and leadership skills within a respected nonprofit setting.