Job Description

Position Title: Chef
Location: Lake Worth, FL (Behavioral Health Residential Facility)
Department: Dietary / Food Services
Reports To: Executive Director

The Chef provides food service support within a residential mental health facility, working alongside the lead Chef to ensure consistent meal preparation, kitchen operations, and regulatory compliance. This role is responsible for maintaining high standards of food quality, safety, and sanitation, and plays a key role in preparing for and supporting all kitchen inspections at Facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve meals in accordance with established menus and meal schedules
• Support daily kitchen operations alongside the lead Chef
• Ensure food quality, portioning, and presentation meet facility standards
• Maintain compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and infection control regulations (local, state, and federal)
• Assist in preparing the kitchen for inspections, including maintaining documentation, cleanliness, and organization
• Ensure proper food storage, labeling, and rotation to minimize waste
• Monitor inventory and communicate supply needs as appropriate
• Clean and maintain kitchen equipment, work areas, and dining spaces
• Support special dietary needs as directed
• Collaborate with facility staff to support patient/resident experience
• Be available as needed to support kitchen operations, including coverage for call-outs or increased census
• Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1–2 years of experience in food preparation, kitchen operations, or institutional food service
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
• ServSafe certification
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Flexibility to work on an as-needed basis, including weekends or holidays as required

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in healthcare, behavioral health, or residential treatment settings
• Experience supporting kitchen inspections or regulatory compliance

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work is performed primarily indoors in a commercial kitchen environment
• Requires standing for extended periods, lifting up to 40 lbs, bending, and repetitive motions
• Exposure to heat, sharp tools, and cleaning chemicals
• May involve interaction with behavioral health patients/residents