Cook (On Call)

Insight Housing•Berkeley, CA
•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Program Manager, the Cook supports Insight Housing’s Meals Program at its Berkeley locations, primarily by preparing and distributing meals and completing tasks related to meeting clients’ food needs. The program serves people experiencing food and/or housing insecurity, including residents of shelter and transitional housing programs, and provides a weekday Community Meal for more than 100 diners. The Cook also supports meal delivery, kitchen operations, inventory, community meal service, and a safe and clean working environment.

Requirements

  • Knowledge of food safety procedures.
  • Possess a California Food Handler’s Certification or be able to obtain it upon hire.
  • Ability to complete CPR/First Aid training.
  • At least one year of food preparation or cooking experience in a restaurant or group setting.
  • Maintain a flexible schedule, be available for shifts on short notice, and work overtime when required for on-call staff.
  • Commitment to serving individuals experiencing homelessness and understanding and sensitivity to issues affecting homeless, low-income, mentally disabled, and chemically dependent persons.
  • Ability to interact supportively and professionally with staff and clients from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds.
  • Ability to provide good customer service, communicate effectively, and maintain a calm demeanor in stressful situations.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Good written and oral communication skills.
  • Good interpersonal and crisis intervention skills, a can-do and flexible attitude, and ability to work well under high pressure.
  • Ability to maintain professional conduct, attitude, and appearance.
  • Valid California driver license, reliable personal vehicle, current personal auto insurance as required by law, and an MVR sufficient to obtain and reasonably maintain insurability under agency auto liability policies.
  • Ability to receive and maintain criminal records clearance.
  • Ability to obtain TB clearance.
  • Ability to perform the physical demands of the role, including potentially lifting or moving up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

  • Computer skills.

Responsibilities

  • Cook daily meals.
  • Ensure proper safety and sanitation in food preparation and serving.
  • Wash dishes, clean kitchen and food storage areas, and complete other cleaning tasks as needed.
  • Assist with menu preparation.
  • Assist with inventory, including ordering, receiving, and organization, and collect and report program statistics.
  • Coordinate with the shelter manager and resident advocates to assess program needs and provide support.
  • Drive a personal or agency vehicle to deliver meals to agency sites as assigned.
  • Perform tasks necessary to host and serve the Community Meal, including setup and breakdown, directing volunteers, serving food, light janitorial work, and security.
  • Promote a safe, healthy, and clean working environment consistent with agency health and safety practices.
  • Attend and participate in assigned meetings and trainings.
  • Complete and submit timesheets accurately and on time.
  • Work within Insight Housing’s Code of Conduct.
  • Perform other tasks as assigned.
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