Cook

Job Title: Cook (Part-Time)

Department: Culinary

Facility: Avenir Behavioral Health Center

Reports To: Director, Culinary Services

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

Avenir Behavioral Health Center is seeking a dedicated Part-Time Cook to provide full-scope, hands-on food production. This role is responsible for preparing compliant, high-quality meals while maintaining superior standards of sanitation, cleanliness, and operational organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Food Preparation & Service: Prepare and serve cycle menus compliant with regulatory dietary and nutritional standards. Maintain high standards for food quality, speed, accuracy, appearance, and temperature.
• Patient Interaction: Periodically visit patients to evaluate food service quality, quantity, and presentation to help inform operational improvements.
• Sanitation & Safety: Strictly adhere to local Health Department, OSHA, and facility sanitation and safety guidelines. Maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment.
• Equipment & Operations: Utilize kitchen tools including ovens, ranges, steamers, slicers, mixers, and grills safely and efficiently.
• Team Communication: Maintain clear communication with kitchen staff and management, reporting operational issues directly to the Director of Culinary Services.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience: Minimum of one (1) year of cooking experience in a restaurant, healthcare facility, or institutional environment preferred.
• Certifications: Current State Food Handlers Card / Food Sanitation Certification required.
• Skills: Strong communication and teamwork skills; ability to manage time effectively and follow nutritional guidelines.

Work Schedule & Physical Requirements

• Schedule: Part-time with variable days and hours, including weekends and holidays as needed.
• Physical Demands: Requires standing and walking for the majority of the shift (up to 90% standing/walking), bending, and ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs.
• Working Conditions: Hands-on kitchen setting involving exposure to heat, kitchen equipment hazards, and standard cleaning agents.