Part-Time Cook Somerset County Jail

Somerset County of Maine•Madison, ME

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This is maintenance and personal services work in directing and overseeing food service operations at the Somerset County Jail. Responsibilities include securing the kitchen and all kitchen equipment, overseeing cooking and kitchen operations, supervising inmates, keeping administrative records, and requisitioning supplies. Work is performed under supervision of the Food Service Manager.

Requirements

Possess a valid Driver’s license.
To understand and work within SCJ’s Policies and Procedures.
To give direction and provide leadership in a clear, well-organized, and attention getting manner.
To resolve conflicts amongst and/or between employees and inmates in a calm and fair manner.
Maintain confidence and protect Somerset Countyand the Somerset County Jail by keeping information concerning employees, inmates, clients, and operations confidential in accordance with applicable SCJ policy and State statute.
Knowledge of materials, methods, utensils and equipment used in food preparation.
Knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation requirements.
Knowledge of food values and nutrition.
Knowledge of kitchen supply needs and requisition process.
Ability to cook, bake and serve meals.
Ability to clean kitchen area and utensils.
Ability to stand for long periods of time under conditions in high temperature.
Ability to plan, direct, oversee and coordinate the work of inmate workers.
Ability to handle confrontations with inmates.
Ability to recognize security breaches
Ability to make decisions under stress.
As a Public Safety/Essential Services position, must be able to work extended and additional hours as needed.
Proven experience as a cook in a restaurant or similar setting
Knowledge of food safety practices and proper food handling techniques
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize tasks effectively
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow recipes accurately
Excellent communication and teamwork skills

Nice To Haves

Education or experience in the food service industry is preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinates, oversees, appraises and directs work activities of inmate work crews to ensure meals are prepared in a timely and effective manner and kitchen security is maintained.
Trains and instructs inmates in their duties and coordinates cooking activities in order to ensure meals are properly prepared and ready to serve at scheduled times.
Directs cooking activities such as cooking and carving meats and bakery operations in order to ensure coordinated food preparation and maximize cost and operational efficiency.
Allocates required amount of prepared food for housing units, infirmary, intake and video arraignment areas in order to ensure inmates are provided proper nutrition.
Oversees and inspects cleaning of kitchen and equipment in order to ensure established sanitary standards are met.
Oversees filling of special menus such as diabetic, low calorie, and low fat in order to meet special dietary needs of inmates.
Oversees monitoring and control of inmates in order to maintain discipline and security.
Secures and controls kitchen knives, security keys, food, and other equipment in order to prevent pilferage and maintain security.
May be required to perform searches of inmates and areas in the kitchen to ensure contraband is not brought into the kitchen and food, knives and other equipment do not leave the kitchen.
Prepares reports on inmate conduct, work performance, and kitchen requirements in order to evaluate and document inmate actions and work habits and inform superiors.
Maintain confidence and protect Somerset Countyand the Somerset County Jail by keeping information concerning employees, inmates, clients, and operations confidential in accordance with applicable SCJ policy and State statute.
Prepare and cook meals according to the menu and dietary requirements
Collaborate with the dietary department to ensure meals are prepared in a timely manner
Assist in menu planning and recipe development
Ensure food safety and sanitation standards are followed throughout the food preparation process
Maintain a clean and organized work area
Monitor inventory and order supplies as needed
Assist with catering events and special functions as required