SY 26-27 Food Services Worker II (Cook)

The School District of Philadelphia is one of the largest public school systems in the United States, committed to providing quality education and support services to students across the city. With a focus on fostering a safe and engaging environment for learning, the district employs a diverse workforce dedicated to the academic and social development of children. Among the essential services provided within its schools is the food services department, which plays a crucial role in ensuring that students receive nutritious and appealing meals every day. The district's commitment to student wellness includes offering breakfast and lunch programs that meet national nutritional standards while accommodating diverse dietary needs.

The Food Services Worker II (Cook) position is a vital role within this department, responsible for assisting in the preparation and service of meals in various school facilities. This is a non-management, regular full-time position affiliated with Local 634 UNITE HERE union. The work involves direct food preparation including cooking main entrees and other meal components by following standardized recipes to ensure consistency and compliance with health regulations. Additionally, the role requires service duties such as placing food on serving counters and interacting with students or staff during meal service. The worker also operates a compliant Point of Service (POS) system for meal transactions, including handling money and generating sales reports.

This position demands a range of responsibilities beyond just cooking. Food Services Worker II must also maintain cleanliness and sanitation in food preparation and service areas, adhering strictly to safety and hygiene protocols. This includes washing pots, pans, and kitchen utensils, as well as performing heavier cleaning tasks when needed. The role also involves inventory tasks such as counting items prepared and sold, sorting cash receipts, and possibly preparing food on grills. The ability to assemble sandwiches, slice meats, prepare salads and fruit dishes, and bake desserts or breads is valuable for this role.

Candidates for this position must meet educational and experiential requirements including a high school diploma or equivalent and at least two years of full-time food services experience in large-scale institutional settings. Applicants should have completed relevant training such as the School Food Service, Principles of Quantity Food Production, and the ServeSafe Sanitation Program. Knowledge of food preparation techniques, sanitation standards, public health considerations, and safety in food handling are essential. Furthermore, candidates must demonstrate skills in operating food service equipment, following detailed recipes, and performing mathematical calculations necessary for food service operations.

The Food Services Worker II role is critical for supporting the school district’s mission to promote healthy eating among students and staff. It requires adherence to established schedules, ability to follow oral and written instructions, and maintaining effective communications and relationships within the team. Candidates should also possess a commitment to personal cleanliness and professional conduct in a busy cafeteria environment.

This position requires candidates to pass both a written and oral exam for consideration, emphasizing the district’s dedication to hiring qualified and competent personnel. The School District of Philadelphia offers a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional development and growth within the food services area. Employees enjoy union representation and protections, competitive wages, and various employee benefits. Being part of this team allows individuals to contribute to the health and well-being of thousands of students across the city while gaining valuable experience in institutional food service operations.