Cook Assistant

GMHC•New York, NY

5h•Onsite

About The Position

The Cook Assistant supports the Cook in all aspects of meal preparation and kitchen operations in a high-volume production kitchen serving approximately 240 meals per day. The role helps maintain high standards of food quality, safety, cleanliness, and organization while supporting daily kitchen operations and volunteer engagement. This position works closely with the Cook and Kitchen Assistant and helps ensure compliance with New York State Department of Health and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene regulations.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent required.
New York City Department of Health Food Handler’s Certificate required.
ServSafe certification required (or must be obtained within 60 days of hire).
Minimum two years of experience in food preparation or food service.
Experience in high-volume or institutional kitchens preferred.
Knowledge of food safety, sanitation practices, soups, sauces, and large-batch cooking required.
Ability to follow menu plans, large-quantity recipes, and kitchen production schedules.
Basic computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office or similar software).
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
Must be able to speak and understand basic English; Spanish language skills preferred.

Nice To Haves

Prior work with non-profit agencies or work on behalf of LGBTQ+ communities and/or people living with HIV is highly desirable.
Experience working with other historically marginalized communities (in a professional or volunteer capacity) is also desirable.

Responsibilities

Assist the Cook in daily food preparation, production, and storage in a high-volume kitchen environment serving approximately 240 meals per day.
Prepare menu items using approved standardized recipes and high-quality ingredients.
Follow menu plans, large-quantity recipes, and production schedules to ensure timely meal service.
Assist the Cook with menu preparation and meal production planning.
Identify and help resolve food production issues as they arise.
Follow all food safety and sanitation regulations, including New York State Department of Health and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene requirements.
Ensure proper labeling of all food items, including ingredients, allergens, and production dates.
Maintain safe food handling practices, including proper food storage, temperature control, sanitation procedures, and personal hygiene standards.
Support the training and guidance of staff and volunteers on safe food handling, equipment use, and kitchen cleanliness.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment.
Ensure all kitchen equipment, workstations, and preparation areas are properly cleaned and sanitized.
Assist with inventory monitoring and kitchen supply management.
Support dishwashing and kitchen cleanup as needed.
Serve as the point of contact for kitchen operations when the Cook is not present.
Create a welcoming, respectful, and professional environment for volunteers assisting in kitchen operations.
Provide guidance to volunteers on kitchen procedures and safe food handling practices.
Participate in relevant training sessions as needed.
Assist with special projects, agency events, and other duties as assigned by the Cook or Program Director.