Cook

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepares and cooks nutritious and appetizing meals using various recipes agreed upon by the Food for the Soul team.
• Accepts donations and deliveries from various partner organizations.
• Delivers or assists in the delivery of meals at agreed-upon times and locations.
• May assist in ordering, purchasing, and receiving food and staples in accordance with FFTS standards and partner agreements.
• Participates in training as needed in all areas of food preparation and FFTS standards; ensures ServSafe compliance and follows hygiene policies and equipment upkeep for cleanliness and proper operation.
• Communicates regularly and transparently with the team and the FFTS Kitchen Manager.
• Notifies the FFTS Manager immediately of safety or maintenance concerns involving team members or members of the Society of the Transfiguration.
• Reports for duty at the times and locations indicated by the schedule or through direct communication from FFTS leadership.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by the FFTS Kitchen Manager or Director.

Qualifications and Skills

• Proficient verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Flexible schedule to accommodate partner deliveries, meal distributions, and coverage for absent team members when needed.

Education and Experience

• Documented culinary training preferred; current ServSafe certification preferred.
• One year of experience working in a kitchen or food preparation environment preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in teamwork and working toward a shared goal.
• Valid driver's license required.

Physical Requirements

• The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with qualifying disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to stand for extended periods, walk, bend, lift, carry, reach, and use hands to handle food items, equipment, and utensils.
• The employee must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds regularly and occasionally up to 50 pounds.
• The role requires regular use of kitchen equipment, including ovens, stoves, slicers, and mixers, which may involve exposure to heat, sharp instruments, and cleaning chemicals.
• The position also requires the ability to follow recipes, monitor cooking processes, and communicate effectively with team members.
• The employee must be able to maintain focus in a fast-paced and at times noisy environment.
• Work Environment
• The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an individual may encounter while performing the essential functions of this position.
• This position is primarily based in a commercial kitchen and food preparation area, which can be warm, busy, and fast-paced.
• The employee may also work in various delivery settings, including outdoor and off-site partner locations.
• The noise level in the work environment is often moderate to high, especially during peak meal preparation times.
• The role involves interaction with team members, volunteers, donors, partner organizations, and occasionally the public.
• Proper safety and sanitation practices are required at all times to maintain food quality and prevent injury.