Job Description
Cook
South County Mental Health Center, Inc. is seeking a dependable and organized Cook to prepare and serve meals for residents in a safe, sanitary, and timely manner. This role is responsible for meal preparation, kitchen cleanliness, food storage, and assisting with dietary operations to support the health and wellbeing of residents in a behavioral healthcare setting.
About Us
South County Mental Health Center, Inc. is a private, non-profit, Joint Commission-accredited behavioral healthcare provider serving Southeast Palm Beach County. We are dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality mental health services to individuals and families in our community.
Minimum Qualifications
- Minimum six (6) months of institutional cooking experience
- Ability to follow menus, recipes, and food safety procedures
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to work weekends
Preferred Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Two (2)+ years of cooking experience
- Experience working in healthcare, residential, or institutional food service settings
- Familiarity with therapeutic or special diet preparation
Duties and Responsibilities
Meal Preparation & Cooking
- Prepare, season, cook, and serve meals according to menus and production schedules
- Prepare meats, fish, poultry, vegetables, soups, desserts, and other menu items
- Follow standardized recipes and portion guidelines
- Adjust meal preparation for therapeutic or special diets as directed
- Review upcoming menus and ensure ingredients are available and properly thawed
Kitchen Operations & Food Safety
- Ensure proper storage, labeling, and dating of food items and leftovers
- Monitor kitchen cleanliness and sanitation standards
- Check walk-in coolers and storage areas for food quality and expiration dates
- Complete temperature logs and food safety documentation
Dietary Support Duties
- Assist with meal setup, transport, and delivery to residential units
- Assist with stocking and putting away groceries and supplies
- Clean kitchen equipment and work areas
- Support dietary aides and kitchen staff as needed
Additional Duties
- Assist with occasional food or supply ordering
- Perform additional duties and related services as assigned
Core Competencies
- Knowledge of food preparation and kitchen safety practices
- Ability to follow written instructions and menus
- Strong attention to cleanliness and organization
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
- Dependability and professionalism
Physical Demands
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying
- Ability to lift food supplies and kitchen equipment
- Exposure to hot surfaces, kitchen equipment, and cleaning products
Working Conditions
- Commercial kitchen and residential healthcare environment
- Weekend work required
- OSHA Classification III
Performance Standards
Performance will be evaluated based on:
- Quality and timeliness of meal preparation
- Compliance with sanitation and safety standards
- Accuracy in food handling and storage procedures
- Teamwork and reliability
- Overall kitchen cleanliness and organization
Schedule & Work Details
Part-Time Position
Schedule: Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Location: In-person (Delray Beach, FL)
Pay: $17/hour
Additional Information
Background check required
Drug-free workplace
Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)
Interviewing Begins Week of 6/26
Apply now.
Because of the work we do in the community, a full background check is required for all staff.
We are a drug free employer.
South County Mental Health Center, Inc is an EOE.
