Food Prep/Line Cook Instructor

Meristem

12d•$23 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

Our mission at Meristem is to prepare young adults on the autism spectrum to build a strong sense of self, develop an enhanced social capacity, and create a life of increased social and economic independence. We strive to create a world where the unique capabilities of adults on the spectrum are respected and appreciated. We facilitate the ability of adults with autism to have full and meaningful lives, with ample opportunities for mainstream employment and independent living. We operate a small college-like campus in Fair Oaks that houses many of our students full-time. We are seeking an experienced Food Prep/Line Cook Instructor who is passionate about working with the neurodiverse community. The Food Prep/Line Cook Instructor is responsible for managing standard kitchen operations, including meal planning, as well as supporting student interns with food prep, cooking techniques, and safety practices. The ideal candidate is passionate about working in a kitchen and assisting students in the neurodiverse community. Meristem is a great place to work and grow. We all work together, motivating those around us with our commitment to high standards. At Meristem, we have a terrific work culture and provide the opportunity to work in a beautiful setting with an amazing purpose. Our compensation demonstrates our commitment to valuing our team.

Requirements

Minimum 2 years of teaching experience
Strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with young adults on the autism spectrum
Foundational knowledge of allergy-aware, gluten-free, and dairy-free practices
Experience in kitchen safety and Serv Safe certified
Exceptional communication, time management, and organizational abilities
Collaborative team player
Exemplify a professional demeanor
Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds
Ability to stand for extended periods of time (6-8 hours)
Ability to move in uneven terrain on our campus as needed
Pre-Employment Background and Drug Test Required!

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent educational experience - a plus
Experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum – preferred

Responsibilities

Plan and prepare daily snacks and lunches for the campus, ensuring meals are nutritious, appealing, and served on schedule
Manage standard kitchen operations, including meal planning, ingredient procurement, and inventory management.
Maintain kitchen cleanliness and organization, adhering to health and safety standards
Adheres to nutritional principles set forth by their supervisor, including but not limited to gluten-free, sugar-free, dairy-free, fermented and high-nutrient-density food preparation
Monitor food costs and work within budgetary constraints to optimize kitchen efficiency
Prepare curriculum and lesson plans for daily instruction with a developmental progression
Support in food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen safety for students
Support in assessing student intern abilities, connecting them with projects and lessons to develop their skills, and tracking progress
Attend daily and weekly staff meetings and check-ins
Familiarize and engage in staff training and with the foundational educational Meristem method
Implement program-oriented approaches
Engage in professional development