Shelter Kitchen Worker Lead

About the role

The Shelter Kitchen Worker Lead is a high-performing kitchen worker responsible for setting the standard and serving as the full-time go-to staff member in the kitchen. This role involves leading lower-level kitchen staff by example in meal production, execution, and service, while ensuring proper food handling, storage, and kitchen cleanliness. The Kitchen Lead monitors staff adherence to sanitation and personal hygiene standards and collaborates closely with the Kitchen Manager to organize supply delivery, storage, and usage. They assist in training, onboarding, and supervising kitchen employees and may act as a key holder with opening and closing responsibilities or cover shifts in the Kitchen Manager’s absence.

Responsibilities

• Prepare menu items under the direction of the Kitchen Manager.
• Serve meals to residents and/or guests.
• Properly handle and store food to ensure safety and compliance.
• Maintain kitchen and dining room cleanliness and sanitation.
• Wash dishes and set up for meals.
• Accurately maintain records related to food safety.
• Alert management to problems or supply needs.
• Serve as acting Kitchen Manager when required.
• Collaborate with program staff to foster a team environment.
• Model effective communication and build relationships with clients, employees, and service providers.
• Treat all individuals with respect, dignity, and kindness.
• Promote an environment that values diversity.
• Adhere to all Porchlight policies, procedures, and professional boundaries.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all information.
• Work with clients to eliminate barriers to services.

Requirements

• Must possess or be able to obtain a ServSafe Manager certification.
• Interest in food and cooking.
• Ability to stand for two hours at a time.
• Manual dexterity for knife handling and other kitchen tasks.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Strong teamwork and cooperation skills.
• Written communication skills for record-keeping and reporting.
• Sincere respect for disadvantaged individuals.
• High ethical standards and team orientation.

Work Environment

• Indoor environments: kitchen, open office, shelter dormitories, and facilities.
• Outdoor environments: parking lot, grounds, and on-site trailers.
• Exposure to weather extremes, loud noises, fumes, airborne particles, and toxic/caustic chemicals.
• Physical demands: standing, kneeling, walking, bending, stooping, reaching, pushing, pulling, climbing stairs, and lifting/carrying up to 50 pounds.
• Repetitive movements: fine hand, finger, and foot motions; typing/data entry.
• Sensory requirements: talking, hearing, interacting with coworkers/vendors/participants, close and distance vision, color/depth perception, and basic English comprehension (written and oral).