Cook Aide (Evenings & Weekends)

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Cook Aide

Job Classification: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Propel Kitchen Manager

Department: Operations

Salary Range: $18 per hour

The Cook Aide supports daily kitchen and dining operations by assisting with meal service, dishwashing, food preparation, cleaning, and maintaining a safe and welcoming dining environment. This role works closely with kitchen staff, volunteers, and clients to ensure meals are served efficiently and respectfully while maintaining cleanliness and food safety standards.

Duties/Responsibilities:

· Assist with meal preparation, including washing, peeling, cutting, portioning, and preparing ingredients

· Serve meals to clients in a courteous and respectful manner

· Wash dishes, cookware, utensils, and kitchen equipment following sanitation standards

· Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces, serving areas, dining room spaces, and food preparation areas

· Assist with setup and breakdown of meal service areas

· Restock supplies, utensils, condiments, and beverages as needed

· Support volunteers by providing direction, assistance, and a positive working environment

· Maintain compliance with all applicable health, safety, food handling, and hygiene standards

· Assist with receiving, unloading, and storing food and kitchen supplies

· Help maintain an organized and clean kitchen and dining environment throughout each shift

· Provide positive customer service and professional communication with clients, volunteers, staff, and guests

· Maintain regular attendance and punctuality

· Perform other duties as assigned by the Kitchen Manager or Lead Cook to support kitchen operations

Required Skills/Abilities:

· Strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills

· Ability to work respectfully and compassionately with diverse populations

· Basic understanding of (or ability to learn) sanitation standards and workplace safety regulations

· Basic understanding of (or ability to learn) food handling and kitchen procedures

· Ability to work in a fast-paced and team-oriented environment

· Strong organization and time management skills

· Ability to follow directions and complete assigned tasks efficiently

· Commitment to maintaining cleanliness and personal hygiene standards

Education and Experience:

· High school diploma or equivalent preferred

· Previous experience in food service, hospitality, customer service, or kitchen operations preferred

· ServSafe certification preferred or willingness to obtain certification

Physical Requirements:

· Prolonged periods of standing and working in a kitchen and dining environment

· Frequent bending, lifting, carrying, and reaching

· Exposure to heat, steam, cold temperatures, and cleaning chemicals

· Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds

· Ability to work evenings, weekends, and variable shifts as needed

· Manual dexterity to safely handle kitchen tools, equipment, and cleaning supplies

Supervisory Responsibility:

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Work Environment:

This role operates at the PPCS Community Campus, where the kitchen provides three meals a day, seven days a week, serving nearly 250 households daily. Meals support individuals and families living in emergency shelter and transitional housing programs. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this role.