Food Service Worker

Summary:

The Cook is responsible for assisting with the preparation, cooking, and serving of high-quality, nutritious meals for clients, including women in recovery, children, and individuals with special dietary needs. This position supports all aspects of kitchen operations, including food prep, meal service, cleaning, and maintaining compliance with all food safety and sanitation standards. The Cook works collaboratively with the Lead Cook and Kitchen Supervisor to ensure meals are prepared and served safely, efficiently, and in accordance with agency standards.

Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday from 10am-6pm (Sunday-Mondays off)

Responsibilities:

Organizational Standards:

• Adhere to all Palmer goals, strategies, and values
• Maintain strict confidentiality in accordance with Palmer policies and applicable state and federal laws
• Role model appropriate behavior, professional boundaries, respectful communication, and personal appearance in accordance with the Employee Dress Code

Food Preparation & Cooking:

• Assist with meal prep, cooking, and portioning of all food items according to established menus and recipes
• Follow standard recipes and accommodate special dietary orders as directed
• Ensure food is cooked, held, and served at proper temperatures to maintain quality and safety
• Assist in preparing ingredients (washing, chopping, measuring, mixing, etc.) for upcoming meals

Meal Service & Client Support:

• Ensure meals and snacks are served on time and presented attractively
• Assist with serving meals to clients in a respectful, professional, and efficient manner
• Communicate courteously with clients and staff while maintaining professional boundaries

Sanitation & Safety:

• Maintain compliance with USDA, CACFP, DHS, and Health Department regulations for food safety and sanitation
• Clean and sanitize all kitchen equipment, utensils, and work areas throughout and after meal service
• Properly store and label all food items, ensuring appropriate rotation and minimal waste
• Follow personal hygiene and safety standards at all times

Kitchen Operations:

• Assist with inventory management by reporting low stock or supply needs to the Lead Cook or Kitchen Supervisor
• Help receive and store deliveries in accordance with proper food handling procedures
• Support kitchen closing duties by completing cleaning checklists and preparing items for the next day’s meals
• Provide clear written or verbal instructions to staff for reheating, serving, or storing food when applicable

Professional Development:

• Participate in ongoing in-service training and staff development programs
• Maintain current certifications as required by the Oklahoma Department of Health and Palmer policies
• Maintain knowledge of agency policies, procedures, and food service standards

Other Duties:

• Assist the Kitchen Supervisor and Lead Cook with special events, menu changes, or kitchen projects as needed
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Kitchen Supervisor or Program Director

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, and responsibilities that are required of the employee in this position. Responsibilities and requirements may change at any time with or without notice.

Requirements:

• Current Oklahoma Department of Health Food Handler’s Permit (required)
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in food service or institutional cooking
• Ability to follow recipes, prepare ingredients, and cook meals to standard quality
• Knowledge of Health Department regulations for food storage, preparation, and sanitation
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Valid Oklahoma Driver’s License and acceptable driving record (if operating company vehicle)
• Previous experience in a commercial or institutional kitchen preferred

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 60 pounds
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time
• Job requires twisting, lifting, standing, sitting, walking, stretching, kneeling, bending, and squatting

Palmer Continuum of Care, Inc. is a tobacco-free environment. Palmer does not allow the use of tobacco products in any program sites or vehicles by employees, consumers, volunteers or visitors. Employees shall not use to tobacco products while providing services in a consumer’s or consumer’s extended family’s home.