Dining Services IV (Cook / Work Leader)

State of Colorado • Denver, CO

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blind is seeking an experienced food service professional to serve as a Dining Services IV (Cook/Work Leader) within our Nutrition Services Department. This position serves as the lead worker during assigned shifts and is responsible for preparing nutritious meals, maintaining food safety standards, coordinating daily kitchen operations, and providing work direction to dining services staff. The successful candidate will help ensure students receive safe, healthy, and appealing meals while maintaining compliance with USDA regulations and school nutrition requirements. This position plays a critical role in supporting the health and success of CSDB students through exceptional food service.

Requirements

• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
• Strong organizational skills
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities
• Effective communication skills
• Ability to lead and direct workflow
• Strong customer service skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Computer proficiency including email and basic Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Three (3) years of experience in commercial, institutional, school, hospital, or residential food service operations performing duties related to food preparation, meal production, sanitation, and customer service.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to stand, bend, reach, stoop, and walk for extended periods

Nice To Haves

• Lead worker or supervisory responsibilities
• School nutrition programs
• USDA School Lunch Program regulations
• Commercial food production
• Special diets and modified textures
• Inventory management
• NutriKids or similar nutrition software
• American Sign Language (ASL)

Responsibilities

• Prepare breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and special meals
• Follow standardized recipes and nutritional guidelines
• Coordinate meal production with other cooks
• Monitor food quality and presentation
• Prepare meals for special dietary needs
• Maintain production records and inventory
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations
• Monitor kitchen sanitation practices
• Verify food temperatures
• Maintain proper food storage and rotation
• Ensure compliance with USDA and HACCP standards
• Coordinate daily workflow of Dining Services staff
• Assign work and monitor completion
• Provide coaching and guidance to employees
• Assist with scheduling and operational decisions
• Serve as lead worker in the absence of the Food Service Manager
• Complete production records
• Maintain inventory documentation
• Review timesheets and leave documentation
• Coordinate food requests and special events
• Communicate effectively with staff and other departments
• Provide outstanding service to students, staff, and families
• Communicate respectfully using a variety of communication methods
• Assist with resolving meal service concerns
• Support an inclusive environment for Deaf and Blind students

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• PERA retirement plans (Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution options)
• Optional 401(k) and 457 retirement savings plans
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employee wellness programs
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Eleven paid State holidays each year
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed