Lead Cook

Mel Trotter Ministries•Grand Rapids, MI

12d

About The Position

Mel Trotter Ministries is a faith-based nonprofit providing safe shelter and supportive services to people experiencing homelessness in a structured, respectful environment centered on dignity and care. The AM Lead Cook helps keep the kitchen running smoothly and ensures guests receive nourishing meals served with dignity. The role sets the pace on the line, maintains consistent recipes and portions, and coordinates preparation so meal service stays on schedule. It also supports a clean, organized workspace and a team culture that welcomes coaching and encouragement. The cook checks the daily menu and prepares the kitchen, checks in with the team, tastes food for consistency, and adjusts workflow to maintain calm service during busy periods. At the end of the work period, the cook resets the space for the next shift, ensuring labels are in place, temperatures are logged, and the kitchen is ready for use.

Requirements

Working knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.
Take direction and coaching with humility.
Offer positive reinforcement to others readily.

Nice To Haves

Two years of professional kitchen experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Set the pace on the kitchen line.
Maintain consistency in recipes and portions.
Coordinate food preparation to keep service on time.
Help maintain a clean, organized workspace.
Support a team culture where coaching is welcomed and encouragement is given.
Check the daily menu and prepare the kitchen for service.
Check in with team members, taste food for consistency, and adjust workflow during service.
Reset the kitchen for the next shift, including ensuring labels are in place and temperatures are logged.