FOOD SERVICES PLANNER/COOK

Work with great people doing great things! Join Buckelew Programs and play a pivotal role in making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges in the North Bay.We are hiring a Food Services Planner/Cook to join Buckelew Programs' new Rising Recovery Center, a new short-term residential treatment center providing support to individuals experiencing co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. As the Food Services Planner/Cook, you will plan and prepare nutritious meals in alignment with program needs and client dietary requirements. You will be responsible for menu planning, food ordering, safe food handling, kitchen sanitation, and budget adherence. This role ensures compliance with food safety standards and actively involves clients in meal preparation as part of life skills development.Responsibilities Plan and develop weekly menus that are nutritionally balanced and accommodate dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, low-sodium, diabetic-friendly)Order food and beverages, schedule and receive deliveries, and verify product quality and quantity upon arrivalMaintain proper food storage, rotation, and labeling practices to ensure hygiene, minimize waste, and meet safety standardsMonitor food preparation, portion sizes, and food presentation to ensure meals are safe, appealing, and nutritiousTeach clients and staff proper food handling, nutrition, and portion controlMaintain kitchen cleanliness and ensure all equipment, appliances, and surfaces are regularly cleaned and sanitizedMonitor and maintain food inventory within budgetary guidelinesPrepare daily meals including:Seven (7) hot dinners per weekThree to four (3–4) simple lunches per weekAdjust meals to meet individual dietary needs as appropriateComply with all food safety, hygiene, and temperature standardsInvolve clients in meal preparation through hands-on guidance and skills teachingANCILLARY DUTIESSupport a welcoming and respectful environment for clients and staffAssist program staff in preparing and distributing snacks and lunches to clientsAnswer program phone and relay calls or messages as neededPerform other related duties as assigned by the Program DirectorQualificationsEducation:High school diploma or equivalent (required)Coursework or training in culinary arts, nutrition, menu planning, or food sanitation (preferred)Experience:Minimum of 2 years of experience cooking in a residential, school, group home, or catering environmentExperience planning and preparing balanced meals for groups of 10–15 peopleExperience with vegetarian and non-vegetarian menu planningExperience teaching independent living or cooking skills (preferred)Familiarity with agency policies and regulatory compliance (preferred)Skills and Abilities:Self-motivated and able to work independently and as part of a teamKnowledge of healthy nutrition, meal planning, and portion controlAbility to modify menus to accommodate dietary restrictions (e.g., allergies, diabetes, vegetarian)Strong organizational and time management skillsAttention to detail and ability to prioritize multiple tasksProficient in basic computer use, including Microsoft Word and online orderingTyping speed of at least 45 WPM with accuracyReliable, trustworthy, and able to maintain confidentialityExcellent interpersonal and communication skills; able to be warm, welcoming, firm, and supportive with clientsSound judgment, patience, and composure under pressureAbility to build and maintain professional, respectful working relationshipsPhysical RequirementsRegularly required to stand, walk, reach, talk, and hear throughout the shiftFrequently lifts up to 25 poundsRequires fine motor skills and the use of both hands for cooking and kitchen tasksVision requirements: ability to safely use sharp knives, kitchen tools, and read printed/electronic informationHearing requirements: ability to hear verbal communication in person and by phoneWorks primarily in an indoor kitchen environment with occasional local travelMust be able to work efficiently despite interruptions or distractions in a shared workspaceOccasionally uses office equipment (e.g., computer, printer, calculator)We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a workplace that celebrates diversity, promotes equality, and fosters inclusion. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.