Cook and Nutrition Assistant

Position Function
Under the direction of the Cook and Nutrition Manager, the Cook and Nutrition Assistant supports the manager in shopping, inventory, kitchen organization, preparing, cooking, and transporting meals for youth in ACH Residential Programs. Must adhere to dietary restrictions while maintaining a safe, organized, and well-stocked kitchen environment.

Education and Licensure Requirements

Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent Required. Additional coursework or certification in nutrition, culinary arts, or a related field is preferred. Drivers License Required.

Certification: Certification in food safety (e.g., Food Handler’s or ServSafe) required or obtained within 60 days of hire.

Experience Requirements:
A minimum of one year of experience in food preparation, meal planning, or nutrition services is required. Experience working in residential settings, group homes, schools, or high-volume meal service environments is preferred.

Working Conditions:
Residential Programs operate 24/7; however, this position typically works a structured 40-hour work week and will require on-site work during periods of inclement weather. The role includes advance preparation of meals for weekends and holidays and will require occasional flexibility to ensure adequate meal coverage. The position requires the ability to stand for extended periods, lift groceries and kitchen supplies (up to 30lbs), and maintain pace in a food service environment. The Cook must maintain awareness that youth with behavioral needs are present at all times. The Cook will transport food to ACH Programs (Wichita and Wedgwood) in a company vehicle.

Exposure to Confidential Information:
This position may have access to sensitive client dietary and medical information, including allergies and restrictions, and must maintain confidentiality in accordance with agency policies and legal requirements.

Key Expectations and Responsibilities:

Mission & Program Support

- Learn, understand, and support the agency’s mission, purpose, and function.

- Collaborate with program staff to ensure the program has all needed food items fully stocked.

- Assist in maintaining continuity of kitchen operations and provide coverage for essential food service functions during the Cook and Nutrition Manager's absence.
Meal Preparation & Nutrition Services

- Prepare, and serve nutritious, high-quality meals for youth in residential programs, ensuring breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided daily, seven days per week, including weekends and holidays (Approximately 210-300 meals per day).

- Assist with detailed instruction for preparation and reheating of any meals that staff will serve.

- Ensure meals meet nutritional standards, accommodate dietary needs, and are prepared in a timely and consistent manner.

- Prepare and organize meals and snacks in advance.

- Assist with the development of weekly meal plans that are balanced, ageappropriate, and aligned with nutritional guidelines.

- Maintain an awareness of food allergies, dietary restrictions, and cultural preferences in all meal planning and preparation.

- Provide healthy snacks throughout the day and ensure consistent access for youth within each program.
Inventory, Purchasing, & Documentation

- Assist with purchasing groceries and kitchen supplies in a cost-effective manner while ensuring consistent availability of needed items within the programs.

- Maintain accurate inventory of food, monitor expiration dates, and ensure proper food storage practices.

- Maintain documentation related to food inventory, meal planning, and any dietary accommodations.

- Assist with monitoring food consumption trends to reduce waste.

- Track expenditures and submit receipts/documentation timely.
Food Safety, Sanitation, & Security

- Ensure the kitchen and food preparation areas meet health, safety, and sanitation standards at all times (HACCP).

- Monitor refrigerator, freezer, and food holding temperatures and report equipment issues promptly.

- Maintain cleanliness and organization of pantry, refrigerators, and all kitchen equipment.

- All kitchen, storage, and food preparation areas must remain secured when not in direct use.

- Potentially hazardous items (e.g., knives, cleaning supplies, hot equipment) must be properly stored, locked, and kept out of reach of youth.

- Responsible for consistently following all safety procedures and protocols to prevent accidents and ensure a safe environment.

- Ensure compliance with all applicable licensing, health department, and agency standards related to food service operations.
Staff & Youth Education

- Provide guidance and instruction to residential staff related to meal preparation, food handling, and serving procedures, as needed.

- Provide planned instructional sessions to youth in food preparation, food safety, kitchen sanitation, and basic nutrition to support independent living skill development.
Transportation & Logistics

- Transport and deliver meals and food supplies to multiple program locations across both ACH campuses according to established schedules, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to food safety requirements.

- Maintain agency vehicle cleanliness and report maintenance or safety concerns encountered during food transport activities.
Professional Development

- Complete all required agency, licensing, and safety trainings within designated timelines.
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Requirements
Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent Required. Additional coursework or certification in nutrition, culinary arts, or a related field is preferred. Drivers License Required.

Certification: Certification in food safety (e.g., Food Handler’s or ServSafe) required or obtained within 60 days of hire.