Shelter Cook - The Salvation Army Eastern Territory

Location: Waterbury Housing Services (Waterbury, CT)

Status: Part-time

Hours Per Week: 25                                                                                                                                            

Schedule: Monday - Friday; 9:30 am - 2:30 pm

Purpose of Position: Prepare and serve meals, maintain accurate records and files, order/purchase food and other items, inventory and track items delivered, store items, keep kitchen and storage areas clean and stocked, train employees and volunteers, respond to concerns, attend workshops and meetings, plan and implement menus, and ensure the kitchen complies with various regulations.

• Arrange for coverage when unable to work as scheduled.
• Attend workshops, meetings, and training to be informed of regulations and changes as requested by the supervisor.
• Ensure that the kitchen, dining, and storage areas are cleaned and stocked and that food is handled following the rules and regulations of The Salvation Army, the Foodbank, the Health Department, etc.
• Inventory all foods and related items regularly to ensure adequate food and supplies are available; discard expired foods and products.
• Maintain accurate records, including daily temperature checks, recipes, in-kind donation forms, menu changes, etc.
• Order, pick up, and receive food and related items; check all orders for accuracy; ensure proper storage upon delivery; and process food invoices.
• Oversee volunteer groups to ensure proper kitchen procedures are being carried out.
• Perform necessary errands to procure food and supplies as needed and requested by the supervisor.
• Prepare and serve scheduled meals/snacks according to the menu, using standardized recipes; supervisor must approve all menu changes in advance.
• Prepare the monthly menu with a supervisor.
• Prepare breakfast, snacks, and frozen meals in advance to be served by shelter staff before shift ends; ensure all ingredients and components are available and arrange for alternatives, and ensure proper dates, labels, and instructions are provided.
• Promptly respond to concerns raised by others related to the kitchen and work directly with the supervisor on all issues.
• Provide or arrange for alternatives in case of food allergies, dietary restrictions, etc.
• Secure the kitchen and dining area upon the conclusion of each meal service, if necessary.
• Wash/sanitize, dry, and put away all items (pots, pans, utensils, slicer, etc.) used to prepare/serve meals and sanitize surfaces/counters.

• High-school diploma or equivalent and two years of cooking experience required.
• QFO (qualified food operator)/ServeSafe certification required.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the work environment.
• Able to read and follow standardized recipes and instructions.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and under pressure.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other personnel, service providers, and professionals.
• Basic computer knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Experience working with the population served preferred; sensitivity to cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of the population served.
• Fluency in English language is required; Spanish speaking ability preferred.
• Knowledge and belief in “Housing First” philosophy and strategies.
• Must be able to attend mandatory training and staff meetings and work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be empathetic and caring.
• Must complete KeepSAfe and other required training upon hire.
• Organized, able to multi-task, and strong communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of proper food handling.
• Supervisory experience preferred.
• Valid driver’s license preferred.
• Will respect and promote the interest of The Salvation Army. The individual is not required to embrace the tenets of faith, but he/she is required to promote and respect the mission of The Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army is pleased to offer a benefit program to part-time employees who work 20 to 29 hours per week, including...

• Employer-funded pension plan (100% vested after five years of eligible service)
• Voluntary life insurance
• Short-term disability coverage (no cost to employee)
• Supplemental insurance coverage options (Aflac, homeowners, auto, and pet insurance)
• 403(b) tax-deferred annuity plan
• Generous paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and sick leave
• Eligibility for the Federal Government’s Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program
• Most importantly – a job with a great purpose! 

Learn more about The Salvation Army's Southern New England Division at https://easternusa.salvationarmy.org/southern-new-england/ 

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.