On-Call Head Cook @ YMCA of the East Bay - Winters

Napa, CA, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $16.00 - $23.00

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Professional development opportunities

Employee assistance program

Job Description

The YMCA is a renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Operating worldwide, the YMCA offers a variety of programs and services aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals and families across diverse populations. Focused on inclusivity, health, and education, the YMCA acts as a vital community hub, offering opportunities for growth and development to people of all ages. Its long-standing mission is to empower individuals, build healthy habits, and foster a sense of belonging and community connection. Through numerous outreach efforts and programs, the YMCA addresses the social, physical, and emotional well-being of community members, playing an essential role in building stronger, more resilient communities.

The Head Cook role at the YMCA is a pivotal position within the central kitchen operations, responsible for supervising the Assistant Cook and Nutrition Assistants. This leadership position ensures that all food preparation and daily meal production align with stringent regulatory standards including the Head Start Performance Standards, California Department of Social Services regulations, the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and Community Care Licensing requirements. The Head Cook is integral to delivering nutritious, safe, and high-quality meals across the YMCA’s programs, particularly those involving children and families. The role demands expertise in high-volume food service operations, mastery of food safety and sanitation standards, and the ability to work collaboratively within a dynamic team environment. From planning and preparing menus to maintaining inventory and overseeing food transport logistics, the Head Cook is instrumental in maintaining efficient kitchen workflows and compliance. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a respected nonprofit with a deep commitment to community well-being, working in a fast-paced and rewarding setting that values professionalism, cultural sensitivity, and continuous improvement. Candidates must demonstrate strong leadership, communication skills, and a passion for serving diverse populations, particularly children in early childhood settings. The YMCA offers a meaningful employment experience focused on personal growth and community impact, with required certifications and clearances to ensure the safety and health of all program participants.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
five years of cooking experience
three years of supervisory experience
valid California driver’s license
ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and high-demand environment
must pass physical examination and TB clearance
proof of required immunizations including measles and pertussis
live scan fingerprint clearance and criminal record clearance required
current pediatric first aid and CPR certification or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire
ability to communicate effectively in English
strong verbal and written communication skills

Job Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent
five years of cooking experience, preferably in high-volume food service
three years of supervisory experience
experience in early childhood settings preferred
experience working with children and families from diverse cultural backgrounds
valid California driver’s license
ability to communicate effectively in English
bilingual or multilingual skills preferred
strong verbal and written communication skills
current pediatric first aid and CPR certification including 15 hours of preventative health and safety training, or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire

Job Duties

Supervise assistant cook and nutrition assistants to ensure effective daily operations
plan and prepare meals according to the daily menu using standardized recipes and CACFP guidelines
document any menu substitutions as required
prepare and package meals for transport to program sites, ensuring proper food safety, temperature control, and sanitation procedures
maintain required records in compliance with California Department of Social Services and CACFP regulations, including documentation of meal accommodations for medical or dietary needs
order food and non-food supplies necessary to implement approved menus
maintain inventory using FIFO (first in, first out) procedures and complete required logs
receive and verify vendor deliveries following established receiving procedures
maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and safe operation of the central kitchen and food service equipment
record and maintain accurate refrigerator and freezer temperature logs twice daily
clean and maintain kitchen and refrigeration areas, including proper recycling practices when applicable
attend staff meetings and required trainings or professional development sessions
communicate timely and effectively with supervisors regarding operational concerns or issues
provide feedback on menus and program operations to support continuous improvement
foster respectful, positive, and welcoming interactions with children, families, and staff
perform other duties as assigned