Production Cook (part-time, open availability)

Do you love creating fresh, wholesome meals and being part of a values-driven workplace? Join Valley Natural Foods, a community-owned cooperative committed to sustainability, wellness, and delicious food made with integrity.

We’re looking for a Part-Time Cook to join our Deli team and help bring nourishing food to our community.

Why You’ll Love Working Here:

Community-Focused – Be part of a co-op that supports local farmers, sustainability, and healthy living. People-First Environment – Join a team that values kindness, respect, and teamwork. Great Benefits – Enjoy competitive pay, employee discounts, and opportunities for growth. Make a Difference – Help customers discover fresh, high-quality, and wholesome products.

What You’ll Do:

• Prepare hot and cold foods from scratch using co-op recipes and seasonal ingredients.
• Support daily food prep and kitchen cleanliness.
• Maintain high standards for food quality, safety, and sanitation.
• Collaborate with a team of cooks and deli staff to keep our kitchen running smoothly.

What We’re Looking For:

• Previous cooking or food prep experience (especially in scratch kitchens),
• Strong communication, reliability, and a team-first attitude.
• Ability to multitask in a busy kitchen and stay cool under pressure.
• Commitment to safe food handling and respectful workplace behavior.
• Availability to work weekends is required.

Schedule & Hours:

• Part-time: Approximately 20 hours/week
• Weekend availability is required

Job Details & Benefits:

• 20% employee discount
• Paid time off and paid volunteering
• 401(k) matching for staff who are 21+
• Employee referral program 

Mandatory Qualifications:

• Must be 18+
• Previous professional production and/or cooking experience (1 to 3+ years)
• Excellent time management, organizational and communication (oral, aural, and written) skills
• Detail oriented and able to multi-task and remain flexible to the changing needs of the business
• Regular, predictable attendance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous customer service, demo and/or deli experience
• A.S. in Culinary Arts or related field
• Familiarity with natural foods, grocery industry or cooperatives

Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift/push/pull/carry 50+ pounds regularly
• Manual dexterity with ability to reach, grasp and perform repetitive motions with hands, wrists, and fingers for extended periods of time
• Mid-to-general range visual acuity to evaluate and interact in working environment and operate deli cooking equipment and appliances for extended periods of time
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time
• Constant exposure to working in refrigerated/frozen and hot/humid environments
• Ability to climb ladders, kneel, crouch, and bend occasionally required
• Ability to be exposed to, work with, and directly handle dietary allergies including, but not limited to: gluten, wheat and flours; dairy and soy; meats and shellfish; peanuts and tree nuts
• Ability to work safely with cooking equipment and sanitation supplies

Reports To: Assistant Deli Manager

Department, Status and Salary: Deli, Part Time, Hourly (At-Will)

Valley Natural Foods Core Competencies

• Adaptability/Flexibility/Dependability
• Communication/Listening Skills
• Customer Service/Customer Focus
• Integrity/Ethics
• Sense of Urgency/Productivity
• Work Environment/Safety/Job Knowledge

Position Specific Competencies

• Creativity/Innovation/Initiative
• Decision Making/Judgment
• Product Knowledge
• Teamwork/Interpersonal Skills
• Planning/Managing Results

The information above is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performance by people assigned to this work. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. VNF management reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs as necessary. This is not an employment contract and does not interfere with MN’s Employment At Will Law.