Food Service Worker

Food Service Worker – Youth Behavioral Health

Location: Elizabethton, Tennessee - Elizabethton Youth Academy
Job Type: Full-Time 
Pay: $15.00 - $17.00/hr

About Youth Opportunity & Elizabethton Youth Academy

Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at‑risk youth. Elizabethton Youth Academy in Elizabethton, Tennessee is a secure Youth Academy providing trauma‑informed residential care for adjudicated boys. Youth benefit from structured education, clinical mental health treatment, restorative justice, and pre‑vocational training, delivered in a safe, therapeutic setting.

Youth typically remain in care for 6 to 9 months, participating in individual, family, and group therapy; life skills and social skills training; victim‑impact awareness; and restorative justice. Small group living units support family engagement and prepare youth for successful transition to community life.

Position Summary – Food Service Worker Job in Elizabethton, Tennessee

We are hiring a Food Service Worker to support kitchen operations at Elizabethton Youth Academy. This role is ideal for individuals with experience in institutional or large-volume cooking who want to contribute to a positive, youth-focused environment. You will prepare meals, maintain cleanliness and safety standards, and help ensure nutritional needs are met within a secure residential facility.

Food Service Worker Job Benefits (Part time positions may qualify for benefits)

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance


• 401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate Vesting


• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays – Earn 4 hours of PTO every pay period


• Free RX delivery on most medications


• Tuition reimbursement and professional development


• Robust Employee Assistance Program


• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Why Join Youth Opportunity?

• Be part of a team making a difference in the lives of vulnerable youth


• Work in a trauma-informed, structured, and supportive residential environment


• Contribute to the health and well-being of youth through quality food service


• Develop your skills through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities

Food Service Worker Responsibilities

• Prepare all food items according to daily menus and recipes while maintaining quality, sanitation, and safety standards


• Review menus and production sheets for substitutions and preparation needs


• Cook soups, entrees, vegetables, and desserts as assigned


• Set up service areas and pass-through windows as needed


• Prepare baked goods or desserts for the following day


• Properly store and date leftovers to meet health and safety guidelines


• Clean cooking utensils, including pots and pans, and maintain a clean work environment


• Follow “clean as you go” procedures to prevent accidents and maintain kitchen organization

Other Duties Include

• Participate in training and development activities as required


• Perform other duties as assigned or needed

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred


• Ability to pass background check and drug screen


• Ability to read recipes and perform basic mathematical calculations


• Familiarity with nutritional, sanitation, and safety guidelines in food preparation

Preferred Experience

• 6+ months experience in institutional or large-volume cookery


• Experience in food preparation techniques and sanitation standards


• ServSafe certification strongly preferred (or ability to obtain within required timeframe)

Other Requirements

• Physical Demands: Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Regularly lift/move up to 50 pounds. Must be free of communicable diseases as required by the state and to the extent that knowledge is attainable under federal law.


• Other: Must maintain an appropriate and valid state driver’s license. Must meet state criminal background check requirements.

How to Apply

Click “Apply Now” through Indeed to submit your application. Or visit http://www.youthopportunity.com/yourfuture to learn more about our mission and career opportunities.

Youth Opportunity is an Equal Opportunity Employer.