Cook - Behavioral Health Recovery Meal Services

About the role

The Cook at State of the Heart Recovery is responsible for preparing, cooking, and serving daily breakfast and lunch meals for individuals in behavioral health and addiction recovery treatment. This role requires adherence to food safety, temperature control, and infection prevention procedures, and contributes to a respectful, trauma-informed environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve daily breakfast and lunch meals according to menu plans, portion guidelines, and nutritional expectations.
• Follow all required procedures for food handling, storage, temperature control, labeling, cooling, and sanitation.
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness, including equipment, work surfaces, utensils, appliances, and food service areas.
• Monitor and document temperature logs for refrigerators, freezers, hot food, and cold food storage.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, environmental health, infection control, and safety regulations in a behavioral health environment.
• Manage basic inventory, track supply levels, and notify leadership when replenishment is needed.
• Use kitchen appliances safely, including ovens, mixers, steam kettles, grills, steam tables, slicers, choppers, and warmers.
• Wash hands, wear and change gloves properly, and avoid cross-contamination in all food preparation.
• Communicate respectfully with clients and staff while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Participate in mandatory training, safety drills, and staff meetings as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support kitchen operations and client services.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• One year of experience in a kitchen or food-service environment preferred.
• Food Handler's Permit required within thirty days of hire.
• Prior experience in healthcare or behavioral health settings preferred.
• Knowledge of sanitation, safe food handling, infection control, and temperature control requirements.
• Ability to safely operate kitchen equipment and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Strong time-management, reliability, and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate respectfully with clients in a treatment-based environment.
• Proficiency in basic documentation, recordkeeping, and compliance with food safety and facility standards.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental, and Vision)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation and Select Public Holidays)
• Family and Medical Leave in accordance with state and federal law
• Wellness Resources for mental and physical health