Assistant Chef-Per Diem

Community Partners in Action (CPA) is one of the oldest organizations of its kind in the country, championing criminal justice reform and advocating for the dignity of individuals in and out of prison. Through programs in reentry, housing, youth initiatives, and holistic alternatives to incarceration, CPA serves over 4,000 individuals annually in Connecticut. Guided by a BEDI (Belonging, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) culture, CPA is committed to ending racial inequities in the criminal justice system.

About the Program

The REGIONS Site Secure Program is a secure residential treatment program for up to 16 male youth, providing a home-like, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive environment. The program aims to improve social, physical, and emotional well-being while therapeutically intervening in the cycle of offending. Youth in the program may have histories of violence, complex needs, and high risks for future offenses, requiring individualized treatment to foster positive self-image, coping skills, and successful community re-entry.

Responsibilities

• Food ordering and meal preparation in a group setting.
• Ensure compliance with Connecticut’s food service regulations and Department of Health standards.
• Serve as a certified Qualified Food Operator or qualify for certification, and instruct staff in food preparation.
• Provide vocational training to program youth.
• Interact effectively with multi-cultural populations.
• Demonstrate strong decision-making, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least one year of experience in food ordering and meal preparation in a group setting.
• Understanding of Connecticut’s food service regulations.
• Certified Qualified Food Operator or ability to qualify.
• Valid CT driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays.
• Adaptability, flexibility, resourcefulness, and emotional intelligence.
• Belief in the capacity for personal change and a commitment to providing quality services.

Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. Candidates with lived experience are encouraged to apply.

Training

• Complete a mandatory 20-hour training curriculum within the first year of employment (conducted during standard hours, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM).
• Complete a minimum of 40 hours of annual training thereafter.
• Required trainings include:
  • Ethics and Boundaries
  • Suicide Prevention
  • First Aid / CPR / AED
  • Safe Crisis Management
  • PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act)
  • DCF Mandated Reporting
  • Additional job-specific trainings

Pay

$23.66 per hour.