Head Cook

The Salvation Army • Newark, OH

8d • Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals for Soup Kitchen, pantry, shelter, and other food service programs. Maintains safe and sanitary kitchen operations, manages food and supply inventory, supports food distribution activities, and provides day-to-day directions to the Assistant Cook and food service volunteers in accordance with applicable food safety requirements and The Salvation Army standards.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience in a commercial, institutional, or high-volume food service environment required; experience preparing meals for large groups preferred.
• Current ServSafe Manager certification required, or ability to obtain within the timeframe established by The Salvation Army.
• Knowledge of safe food handling, sanitation, storage, and kitchen safety practices.
• Ability to read and follow recipes, menus, food labels, safety instructions, and food service procedures.
• Ability to plan and organize meal preparation and complete assignments within established service schedules.
• Ability to work independently, accept direction, prioritize responsibilities, and manage multiple tasks.
• Ability to work effectively and professionally with employees, volunteers, shelter residents, program participants, and administrative staff.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain and maintain driving privileges in accordance with The Salvation Army guidelines.
• Ability to meet The Salvation Army requirements for operating applicable vehicles when driving is assigned.
• Must be dependable and maintain regular and punctual attendance.
• Working knowledge of food safety, sanitation, kitchen equipment, and safe food handling practices.
• Basic computer skills and ability to use required pantry tracking, inventory, email, and related systems.
• Effective communication, organization, time-management, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and address difficult situations professionally and compassionately.

Nice To Haves

• Experience preparing meals for large groups preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and serve balanced meals in accordance with established menus, food safety standards, and applicable regulations.
• Maintain a clean, sanitary, organized, and secure kitchen, serving area, food storage areas, and related workspaces.
• Maintain food, paper goods, and kitchen supply inventories; identify supply needs and coordinate approved ordering and food bank pickups.
• Coordinate weekly food pantry service and maintain accurate food service and pantry statistics and records.
• Supervise and provide work directions to the Assistant Cook, volunteers, and shelter residents assigned to food-service preparation and cleanup.
• Ensure proper food handling, storage, sanitation, and safety procedures are consistently followed.
• Support food distribution programs and interact professionally and compassionately with clients, residents, volunteers, and staff.
• Participate in required training and comply with The Salvation Army policies, procedures, and food-service requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Corps Officer.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED