Chef - Residential Treatment

The Ridge RTC•South China, ME

20h•$21 - $24

About The Position

Paradigm Treatment Centers and Ridge RTC are seeking a skilled and dependable Chef to support our residential treatment programs. This role is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious, high-quality meals that support the physical and emotional well-being of clients in treatment. The ideal candidate understands the importance of food in recovery, maintains a calm and professional presence, and can work effectively within a structured healthcare environment.

Requirements

Prior experience as a Chef or Cook in a residential, healthcare, hospitality, or institutional setting preferred.
Knowledge of food safety standards and proper kitchen sanitation practices.
Ability to prepare meals for larger groups while maintaining quality and consistency.
Experience accommodating dietary restrictions (e.g., allergies, vegetarian/vegan, medical diets).
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently.
Comfortable working in a behavioral health or residential treatment environment.
Food handler certification required (or willingness to obtain).

Responsibilities

Plan and prepare daily meals for residential clients and staff, ensuring consistency, quality, and nutritional balance.
Develop menus that accommodate dietary needs, allergies, and medical or cultural restrictions.
Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen in compliance with health and safety regulations.
Order, receive, and properly store food and kitchen supplies.
Monitor food inventory and manage costs to stay within budget guidelines.
Collaborate with clinical and operations teams to support client needs and program schedules.
Follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection control protocols.
Maintain professionalism and appropriate boundaries while interacting with clients.
Assist with special events, holidays, or therapeutic programming as needed.