Lead Cook/ Chef

The Salvation Army USA Central Territory • Omaha, NE

19d • $60,000 - $68,000

About The Position

The Lead Cook prepares and serves wholesome, nutritious meals, primarily using donated food and supplies from the kitchen pantry and freezers. The role plans menus, prepares a variety of dishes, oversees food quality and safety, manages kitchen inventory and procedures, and supervises staff and volunteers. Meals support programs including Mental Health Respite, Family Meals of Hope, Winter Night Watch, and other mission-related feeding programs. Driving is an essential function, and the employee may be asked to participate in Omaha Metro programs beyond lunch service at Omaha North Corps.

The position requires a high school education, at least two years of food-industry experience, and supervisory experience. A degree in food service or beverage management or a similar field is preferred. The employee must pass applicable background checks and complete Safe from Harm training, Serve Safe Certification, and CPR and AED training within 90 days of hire.

The work takes place in a kitchen with varying temperatures and noise levels. Physical demands include standing, bending, reaching, manual dexterity, and occasionally lifting or moving more than 50 pounds. The Salvation Army is a church, and employees agree not to undermine its religious mission.

Requirements

• Successful completion of high school.
• At least two years of experience in the food industry.
• Supervisory experience.
• Ability to be flexible and work on multiple projects or tasks simultaneously.
• Knowledge of basic tools, cleaning equipment, and cleaning products.
• Basic computer skills, including the ability to access payroll, timekeeping, and personal data through a web-based system.
• Attention to detail and creative problem-solving skills.
• Strong independent judgment.
• Must pass all applicable background checks.
• Must complete Safe from Harm training, Serve Safe Certification, and CPR and AED training within 90 days of hire.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the role, including standing, bending, reaching, manual dexterity, and occasionally lifting or moving more than 50 pounds.
• Must agree not to undermine The Salvation Army's religious mission as an employee.
• Driving is an essential function of the position.

Nice To Haves

• Degree in food service, beverage management, or a similar field.
• Cooking experience.

Responsibilities

• Plan and develop menus based on seasonal ingredients, dietary preferences, and available inventory.
• Source high-quality ingredients from suppliers and vendors.
• Prepare and cook a variety of dishes consistently and according to recipes.
• Train and supervise kitchen staff and ensure appropriate staff follow ServSafe protocols.
• Prepare meals for Mental Health Respite, Family Meals of Hope, Winter Night Watch, and other mission-related feeding programs.
• Develop and implement kitchen, meal preparation, serving, and cleaning procedures.
• Delegate tasks to kitchen team members to support an efficient workflow.
• Monitor food preparation to maintain quality, freshness, and food safety standards.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, sanitation guidelines, and food-handling procedures.
• Manage inventory, including stock rotation, ordering, and cost control.
• Work with the General Manager to create and maintain kitchen schedules, staffing plans, and production and cleaning schedules.
• Address guest feedback and complaints promptly and professionally.
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness and organization, including equipment maintenance and sanitation.
• Promote teamwork and professional growth among kitchen staff.
• Ensure volunteers and employees maintain safe and sanitary conditions during food preparation, service, and storage.
• Prepare required statistical and financial reports, including gifts-in-kind reports.
• Report maintenance needs to the General Manager.
• Serve as the first point of contact for kitchen volunteers and work with the General Manager to schedule and coordinate training.
• Participate in Omaha Metro programs as needed beyond lunch service at Omaha North Corps.
• Drive as required by the position.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive wages.
• UHC medical plans with low deductibles.
• 100% company-funded pension plan.
• Voluntary benefits including 403(b), life insurance, AFLAC, and short-term and long-term disability.
• Vacation, sick, and personal days.
• 13 paid holidays per year.

What This Job Offers

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