Cook

Job Description

Job Description

Summary Job Description

Prepares food for residents. Helps devise new methods of cooking and new menu items. Basic Computational Skills, Organizational Skills, Verbal Communication, Kitchen Equipment Knowledge, Knowledge of International Cuisines, Creativity, Interpersonal Skills, Some Culinary Arts Training (preferred not required). Maintains a sanitary kitchen and pantry according to DOH/ACS regulations. While the Cook is primarily responsible for meals, the position may, as needed, present as YDC in engaging with resident youth.

About St. John’s

Founded in 1826 as a home for orphaned children, St. John’s has evolved into a nonprofit social services agency providing residential care to New York City youth involved in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. We offer holistic, trauma-informed support to young people up to age 21. 

Our main campus in Rockaway Park, Queens, houses a Residential Treatment Center, Close to Home Non-Secure Placement programs, administrative offices, clinical services, and an on-site NYC Department of Education school. We also operate a Non-Secure Detention residence in Richmond Hill and Limited Secure Placement programs in Brooklyn and Staten Island. 

St. John’s is dedicated to helping youth heal, grow, and build the skills they need to achieve their goals and return to family or a stable, supportive environment as engaged members of their communities. 

Principal Responsibilities

• Demonstrates fidelity to the agency's service values and organizational imperatives.
• Establishes and monitors procedures for food inventory, food supplies inventory, etc. Keep records and accounts of all food and food equipment purchases.
• Adheres to the established food services, control instructions and city mandates regarding the preparation and storing of food both internal and externally (DOH/ACS/OCFS requirements)
• Prepares nutritionally balanced meals for residents/staff, and provides quality and timely prepared foods while following sanitation guidelines and safety procedures.
• Ensures that an alternate meal is available for each meal plan and that it is plainly stated on the menu.
• Maintains a log of resident youth allergies/ special needs;
• Makes adjustments to food items to accommodate residents’ w/allergies or specific diet concerns. Unit Director will provide guidance.
• Able to efficiently and effectively operate various kitchen appliances such as a blender, grill, mixer, oven,
• Ensures and maintains clean food preparation areas as determined by law and agency policy.
• Anticipates food consumption and department needs based on census and plans/prepares accordingly.
• Devises creative food menus/recipes while keeping within the budget guidelines.
• Meets with residents quarterly, at a minimum, for feedback, suggestions and recommendations for the menu and future meal ideas.
• Maintains the kitchen/pantry area according to Department of Health/ACS/ agency guidelines.
• Acquires and maintain a current food handlers license.
• Attends any/ all recommended/ required training.
• Additionally, beyond the aforementioned statements, perform any and all tasks as assigned by program leadership.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum High School Diploma w/ a minimum of 2 years’ experience in food prep/cooking
• Some knowledge of culinary arts.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Creative in food preparation/menu options
• Independent worker with the ability to multi-task
• Responsible

Disclaimer

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the incumbent in this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of a person in this position.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Statement

With more than 250 years of combined experience, Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York and St. John’s Residence for Boys have a long-standing history of serving children, youth, adults and families of color. Our mission, vision and values are grounded in elevating the shared humanity of every staff member, community partner and those with whom we engage. We recognize that our DEIB work is continuously evolving as we strive for equity and inclusion for individuals of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexualities, ages, abilities, religions and lived experiences.

Accessibility

Some job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may be designed to protect the safety and health of the employee, their fellow employees and the individuals being served and may therefore exclude some individuals.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

St. John’s Residence for Boys provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other legally protected group status.