Food Service Specialist

The Transition House•Saint Cloud, MN

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Transition House is seeking a dependable and motivated Food Service Specialist to join our team. In this role, you'll prepare and serve nutritious meals for individuals participating in our residential re-entry programs while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and customer service. This position is essential to creating a welcoming environment that supports the health and well-being of our residents. At The Transition House, we believe strong teams create strong outcomes. Our work is centered on accountability, rehabilitation, and opportunity for individuals transitioning back into the community. We are committed to supporting our employees through professional development, a collaborative work culture, and a workplace that values both mission impact and employee well-being.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
At least one (1) year of food service, commercial kitchen, cafeteria, restaurant, or institutional food preparation experience preferred.
Experience preparing meals for large groups is highly desirable.
Knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and food presentation.
Understanding of food safety, sanitation, and temperature control requirements.
Ability to safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical tasks throughout the workday.
ServSafe Certification required within two (2) weeks of hire.
Valid driver's license preferred, if transportation between sites is required.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in correctional, residential, behavioral health, healthcare, school, or institutional food service settings.
Experience with inventory management and food ordering.
Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Responsibilities

Prepare and cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner for approximately 60–90 residents.
Prepare hot and cold food items, including meats, vegetables, salads, sandwiches, baked goods, beverages, and desserts.
Set up serving lines and maintain proper food temperatures in accordance with food safety standards.
Serve meals while ensuring proper portion control.
Replenish food, utensils, dishes, trays, beverages, and condiments during meal service.
Monitor food quality and safely dispose of spoiled or unsafe food items.
Clean and sanitize kitchen equipment, workstations, floors, utensils, pots, pans, and food preparation areas.
Operate kitchen equipment safely and report maintenance or equipment concerns.
Maintain inventory of food and kitchen supplies and notify supervisors of shortages.
Wash dishes and service ware while maintaining sanitation standards.
Follow all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety procedures.
Assist with training new staff as assigned.
Perform other duties as assigned to support kitchen operations.