Food Service Worker

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Come work in an environment where we truly value and respect those we serve and believe in the mission that all people can achieve a higher level of wellness and independence.

The state supported living centers serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are medically fragile or who have behavioral problems. The centers provide campus-based direct services and supports at 13 centers located throughout the state. Learn About Our State Supported Living Centers

If you are looking for a place to work where you can establish a career that is filled with purpose, this is the job for you!

The Food Service Worker III performs complex (senior-level) technical food preparation, portioning, and distribution of meals for individuals who live at the State Supported Living Center (SSLC)/patients receiving care at the State Hospital.  Major duties include preparing, portioning, distributing, and serving food for regular and modified food diets and textures. Handles, and ensures other handle, food in accordance with federal and state guidelines.  Performs cleaning and sanitization of the dining, service, and food preparation areas and equipment.  Receives deliveries of food and supplies from vendors.  Inspects and ensures proper food service and proper sanitation of the food service areas, equipment, and dining utensils/dinnerware.  Stores food in designated containers and storage areas to prevent spoilage. Provides guidance and training to others in areas of food preparation, sanitation, safety, and personal hygiene standards. Instructs others in the preparation and delivery of meals to individuals on time and in accordance with facility and regulatory guidelines. As needed, is formally designated as a “team lead” or “shift lead.” Performs other duties to ensure overall operational functioning of the food service department, such as working in the ingredient room, working in the facility canteen, preparing reports, or driving the delivery vehicle if qualified.  Works under limited supervision, with moderate latitude for use of initiative and independent judgement.  Generally, works a designated shift but can be required to work a variable schedule depending upon facility staffing and needs. May work unusual or extended hours in the event of a disaster or operational necessity.

This position may be eligible to earn additional pay for work performed on evenings, nights and/or weekends. 

This position may also be eligible to earn additional pay for work performed on maximum security locations.

Requirements

• Knowledge of food preparation methods, of food storage standards, and sanitation regulations.
• Knowledge of specialized diets and textures.
• Skill in the use and care of food preparation appliances and equipment such as slicers, mixers, grinders, food processors, etc.
• Skill in the operation and sanitizing of food service equipment.
• Skill in the preparation of large quantities of food following specific guidelines for diet and textures.
• Skill in food distribution, delivery, and service based on correct portions and substitution.
• Ability to serve food, to clean dining, serving, and food preparation areas, and to maintain accurate records.
• Ability to guide and train the work of others in food preparation, equipment use, and sanitation.
• Ability to take and record temperatures of food and food storage areas.
• Ability to speak and read English.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
• Ability to complete basic math used in food preparation.
• Ability to lift minimum of 25 pounds.
• Ability to bend and reach, stand/walk on hard floors for extended period of time.
• Ability to work in hot and/or cold conditions.
• Ability to see.
• Ability to work harmoniously and productively with co-workers and residents.
• Texas requires food handler training for all individuals working in Texas food service establishments. In addition, Texas Food Manager certification, or Food Protection Manager Certification is required within 60 days of hire for employees working in this position.
• Paid or unpaid experience in food service work; or
• Graduation from a standard senior high school or equivalent; or
• Prior paid work experience of any kind.

Nice To Haves

• 6 months experience in food service work preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepares and portions food for meals, scheduled snacks, and supplements.
• Prepares and participates in the distribution of food in a safe and sanitary manner according to the food service policies and aids food service managers in making assignments for other food services workers to ensure food is served timely and efficiently.
• Follows procedures for cleaning and sanitation of the dining utensils/dinnerware, kitchen, stock room, food preparation, and satellite areas.
• Operates and maintains all food service equipment in a safe manner.
• Receives delivery of food and supplies from vendors.
• Performs other duties to ensure overall operational functions of the food service department such as: working in the facility canteen (as applicable) which involves handling cash in a safe and secure manner to protect the interest of each resident and the State of Texas, working in the ingredient room, and answering the telephone promptly and transmitting messages in a clear, concise, and positive manner.
• Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) activation.

Benefits

• Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees