Kitchen Manager/Cook

Primo Center•Chicago, IL

16d•$48,000 - $58,000

About The Position

Primo Center is seeking qualified, caring individuals who want to make a difference by supporting families experiencing homelessness by working as the Kitchen Manager/Cook ABOUT PRIMO CENTER The mission of Primo Center is to empower families to become productive, responsible, and independent members of their community. Today, the Primo Center is a leader in providing family shelter and permanent supportive housing, as well as integrated physical, dental, and mental health care, early childhood development, and supportive services to homeless families in Chicago. The organization has considerable capacity and experience as a provider of services to families affected by extreme poverty and homelessness, assisting more than 1100 people each year with the aid of volunteers, over 90 staff members, and an annual operating budget of nearly $10 million. Primo Center operates facilities in high-need communities across Chicago, with locations in Austin on the city’s west side, Englewood on the south side, and Hermosa on the northwest side. Position Summary Kitchen Manager/Cook works primarily in the Triage Shelter Program, which is a 40 bed, shelter that serves women who are experiencing homelessness. The Kitchen Manager/Cook oversees all aspects of food service — from menu planning to meal preparation, ordering, inventory, and kitchen cleanliness. This role requires strong culinary skills, excellent organization, and the ability to work independently while collaborating with staff and volunteers.

Requirements

3–5 years cooking experience in a food service establishment.
Food Service Manager Certification and City of Chicago License (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire)
Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills, leadership experience.
Lift and carry up to 50 lbs. (e.g., food deliveries, culinary supplies storage etc...
Long periods of standing (4-6 hrs. often), working in extremely hot or cold conditions in the kitchen and freezers
Able to crawl or lower self to ground for kitchen upkeep requirements

Nice To Haves

Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and/or trauma (preferred).
Preferred Food Service Manager Certification & City of Chicago License prior to hire
AAS Degree in Culinary Arts or completion of a workforce culinary or related training program.

Responsibilities

Plan and maintain weekly menus that meet USDA dietary guidelines, with adjustments for residents’ health needs (e.g., diabetes).
Prepare and serve lunch and dinner daily; assemble bagged lunches as needed.
Prepare meals in advance for scheduled time off and unexpected absences.
Ensure all food is stored and handled according to sanitation and safety standards.
Maintain organized pantries, refrigerators, and freezers.
Clean and sanitize all food preparation and storage areas, including coolers, ovens, and grills.
Manage ordering, delivery, and inventory of food and kitchen supplies.
Maintain required inspections, licenses, and certifications.
Report facility-related kitchen needs to the Facilities and Maintenance Manager.
Provide guidance to volunteers preparing meals during working hours.
Coordinate with staff to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
Attend supervision and staff meetings as required.
Complete all mandatory training.