Lead Cook & Events Coordinator
Job Overview
Compensation
Hourly
Range $18.00 - $23.00
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Employee Discounts
sick leave
Professional development opportunities
Job Description
FIELD is a dedicated organization committed to providing high-quality nutrition services that support the well-being of students, staff, and community members across various sites and special programs. With a focus on cultural responsiveness and inclusivity, FIELD emphasizes the importance of delivering nutritious meals that comply with state and federal guidelines while fostering a supportive and sustainable food environment. The organization values teamwork and collaboration, encouraging its Nutrition Services team to work closely together and uphold the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and service quality.
The Lead Cook & Events Coordinator at FIELD plays a vital dual role that combines culinary expertise with event management responsibilities. Reporting directly to the Nutrition Services Supervisor, the Lead Cook oversees the daily preparation and service of meals, ensuring that all food offerings meet rigorous health and nutritional standards. This role involves supervising kitchen staff including aides, corps members, CTE students, and volunteers to maintain a clean and efficient kitchen environment. In addition to daily meal service, the Lead Cook is responsible for coordinating and executing catering services for FIELD-sponsored events such as board meetings, staff retreats, community programs, and student celebrations. This position demands keen attention to detail in menu planning, execution, and logistical coordination both on and off-site.
Furthermore, the Lead Cook & Events Coordinator is integral in ensuring compliance with all food safety laws and hygiene regulations. This includes precise monitoring of food storage, inventory management, and adherence to recycling and sustainability practices aligned with CalRecycle standards. With a hands-on approach, the Lead Cook closely manages procurement processes, oversees delivery verification, and assists with cost control through efficient use of supplies.
Effective communication is critical in this role. The Lead Cook collaborates regularly with the Nutrition Services Supervisor and the Director of Student Services to align menus, staffing, event requirements, and budget needs. The position also offers bilingual communication support when necessary, enhancing accessibility and inclusiveness in kitchen and event environments.
Physically, the role requires the ability to work in demanding kitchen and catering settings, including standing for extended periods, lifting up to 52 pounds, and operating various kitchen equipment such as ovens, mixers, and slicers. The Lead Cook is expected to demonstrate leadership in maintaining safety, cleanliness, and recycling standards while fostering a positive and productive atmosphere.
Overall, the Lead Cook & Events Coordinator position at FIELD is essential for delivering exceptional food service and catering experiences that advance the organization's mission of nutrition and community support, all while maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations and promoting sustainable practices.
The Lead Cook & Events Coordinator at FIELD plays a vital dual role that combines culinary expertise with event management responsibilities. Reporting directly to the Nutrition Services Supervisor, the Lead Cook oversees the daily preparation and service of meals, ensuring that all food offerings meet rigorous health and nutritional standards. This role involves supervising kitchen staff including aides, corps members, CTE students, and volunteers to maintain a clean and efficient kitchen environment. In addition to daily meal service, the Lead Cook is responsible for coordinating and executing catering services for FIELD-sponsored events such as board meetings, staff retreats, community programs, and student celebrations. This position demands keen attention to detail in menu planning, execution, and logistical coordination both on and off-site.
Furthermore, the Lead Cook & Events Coordinator is integral in ensuring compliance with all food safety laws and hygiene regulations. This includes precise monitoring of food storage, inventory management, and adherence to recycling and sustainability practices aligned with CalRecycle standards. With a hands-on approach, the Lead Cook closely manages procurement processes, oversees delivery verification, and assists with cost control through efficient use of supplies.
Effective communication is critical in this role. The Lead Cook collaborates regularly with the Nutrition Services Supervisor and the Director of Student Services to align menus, staffing, event requirements, and budget needs. The position also offers bilingual communication support when necessary, enhancing accessibility and inclusiveness in kitchen and event environments.
Physically, the role requires the ability to work in demanding kitchen and catering settings, including standing for extended periods, lifting up to 52 pounds, and operating various kitchen equipment such as ovens, mixers, and slicers. The Lead Cook is expected to demonstrate leadership in maintaining safety, cleanliness, and recycling standards while fostering a positive and productive atmosphere.
Overall, the Lead Cook & Events Coordinator position at FIELD is essential for delivering exceptional food service and catering experiences that advance the organization's mission of nutrition and community support, all while maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations and promoting sustainable practices.
Job Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- minimum two years of experience in food service or culinary roles
- knowledge of local, state, and federal food safety regulations
- ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 52 pounds
- experience with kitchen equipment such as stoves, ovens, mixers, and slicers
- ability to manage multiple tasks and coordinate events
- strong interpersonal and communication skills
- bilingual communication skills preferred
- ability to follow detailed procedures for food handling and hygiene
- willingness to work in fast-paced kitchen and catering environments
- reliable and punctual work ethic
Job Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- experience in food preparation and kitchen management
- knowledge of food safety regulations and nutritional guidelines
- leadership skills with experience supervising kitchen staff or volunteers
- ability to plan and coordinate catering events
- strong communication skills including bilingual ability preferred
- familiarity with inventory management and procurement processes
- ability to follow safety protocols and maintain cleanliness
- experience working in culturally diverse environments
- basic computer skills for record keeping
Job Duties
- Prepare and serve meals in compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards
- ensure meals meet state and federal nutritional guidelines
- supervise kitchen aides, corps members, CTE students, and volunteers as assigned
- maintain cleanliness of kitchen equipment and facilities
- support nutrition services for all populations including students, staff, and children
- plan, prepare, and execute catering services for FIELD events including board meetings, staff retreats, community programs, and student celebrations
- coordinate services for emergency contracts such as sack lunches for local fire departments
- collaborate with the Nutrition Services Supervisor to ensure menu alignment, staffing, and logistics for event-based food service
- coordinate delivery, setup, and breakdown of catering services on- and off-site
- source culturally appropriate and event-specific menu options
- follow established procedures for food safety, hygiene, and handling in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations
- maintain accurate records of food production and inventory
- ensure proper storage of food and monitor temperatures of freezers, refrigerators, and food items
- support proper recycling practices in line with CalRecycle and internal compliance standards and encourage sustainable practices in food preparation and event services
- monitor food and supply inventory, report shortages, and request orders
- assist in maintaining cost control through efficient use of food and supplies
- receive and verify deliveries
- work closely with the Nutrition Services Supervisor to align on weekly menus, staffing, and reporting requirements
- communicate with the Director of Student Services regarding special requests, budget needs, or programmatic adjustments
- provide bilingual communication support in kitchens and at events as needed
- provide direction to kitchen aides, temporary staff, corps members, CTE students, and volunteers
- ensure all food service personnel follow established safety, cleanliness, and recycling standards
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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