Cook (Tracy EHP)

Ruby's Place•Castro Valley, CA

6d•$23 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

Ruby's Place dba Restorative Pathways (RP) is an innovative nonprofit committed to ending domestic violence, human trafficking, and violent crime through hope, advocacy and connection. Our services include emergency shelter, transitional housing, rental subsidies, mental health services, substance recovery, and wrap-around services. All our services are trauma-sensitive and client-centered and are provided at no cost to our clients. All programs are low barrier. RP is led by survivors with a focus on reflection, innovation, and connection. We believe in fostering relationships, both in our direct service work and throughout our internal work culture. We aim to cultivate a workplace that appreciates and emphasizes the voices of those most impacted by violence. We recognize these voices are vital to interrupting the cycle of violence and transforming lives towards safety, unity, and trust. The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving daily meals for participants residing in a 150-bed congregate shelter. This role ensures meals are nutritious, consistently prepared, and served in accordance with health and safety standards while meeting the needs of a diverse population. The Cook plays an essential role in supporting participant well-being by maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen environment. This position is responsible for meal preparation, kitchen organization, and supporting inventory and food safety practices. The Cook works closely with program staff to ensure meal service aligns with shelter operations and schedules.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
Minimum of two years of experience in food preparation, preferably in high-volume or institutional settings.
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Food Handler or Food Safety certification required or willingness to obtain.
Ability to accommodate basic dietary needs and restrictions.
In possession of a valid CA driver's license, proof of insurance, and be approved by RP insurance as a driver in order to drive agency vehicles. If a staff member cannot be approved by RP insurance as a driver, employment might not be able to continue. Instances where staff cannot be approved to drive will be reviewed on a case by case basis to determine if employment can continue in their role without driving agency vehicles. Items considered include but are not limited to: the shift the staff member holds and the frequency/necessity of driving during that shift, the amount of time before the staff member may be approved to drive by the insurance carrier, the availability of other staff on site to drive agency vehicles as program needs require, etc.
Able to complete all required background checks. Additional requirements may be deemed necessary, including fingerprinting (Live Scan), completion of all Community Care Licensing (CCL) documents, and ability to meet CCL licensing requirements.
You must be able to perform physical activities, including lifting up to 25 pounds.
You will be subject to frequent interruptions and must be able to multitask and handle stress.

Nice To Haves

Experience preparing meals for large groups (50+ individuals) preferred.
Experience working in shelters, community programs, or similar environments.

Responsibilities

Prepare and serve meals for up to 150 participants in alignment with established schedules.
Ensure meals are balanced, nutritious, and accommodate basic dietary needs and restrictions when possible.
Maintain consistency in food quality, portioning, and service.
Coordinate meal timing with program operations and participant flow.
Create a monthly menu.
Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment at all times.
Follow all food safety, sanitation, and handling standards in accordance with local health regulations.
Ensure proper storage, labeling, and rotation of food items.
Monitor kitchen equipment and report maintenance or repair needs.
Monitor food inventory and communicate supply needs to the Facility Manager.
Assist with tracking food usage and minimizing waste.
Support receiving and organizing food deliveries.
Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation requirements.
Maintain required food safety certifications and follow established procedures.
Support readiness for inspections and compliance reviews.
Work closely with the Facility Manager and program staff to ensure meal services support overall shelter operations.
Communicate any challenges related to food service, supplies, or kitchen operations.
Support a respectful and structured environment during meal service.
Complete functional timesheets by assigned due dates in compliance with time allocations.
Actively participate in reflective supervision sessions.
Create and maintain documentation of processes and procedures related to job duties.
Other duties as assigned.