Cook II

Overview

Date:
Feb 5, 2026 |

Location:

BIG SPRING, TX

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. HHSC supports you at each stage of your life and work journey with a comprehensive benefits package including 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, opportunities for career advancement, and more.

Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHSC webpage.

Functional

Title:

Cook II

Job Title: Cook II

Agency: Health & Human Services Commission

Department: Food Services Operations

Posting Number: 13607

Closing Date: 05/06/2026

Posting Audience: Internal and External

Occupational Category: Food Preparation and Serving Related

Salary Group: TEXAS-A-11

Salary Range: $2,904.91 - $3,946.25

Pay Frequency: Monthly

Shift: Day

Telework: Not Eligible for Telework

Travel: Up to 20%

Regular/Temporary: Regular

Full Time/Part Time: Full time

FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt

Facility

Location:

Big Spring State Hospital

Job Location City: BIG SPRING

Job Location Address: 1901 N HIGHWAY 87

Other Locations: Big Spring

MOS Codes: ,3F1X1,4D0X1,752X,92G,CS,CSS,F&S,SN

The Cook II performs routine (journey level) food preparation work at the state hospital. Work involves preparing, cooking, portioning, distributing, and serving food for regular and therapeutic diets and textures. Follows prescribed menus, recipes, standards, and completes necessary reports. Responsible for sanitation of equipment and work areas. Works in the ingredient room or drives the delivery vehicle as required. Maintains sufficient knowledge to satisfy the requirements of the job.

Handles food in accordance with federal, state, and HACCP guidelines. Follows kitchen and food service safety procedures and practices. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Performs other duties as assigned, including disaster response and Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location may be required. This position may be eligible to earn additional pay for work performed on evenings, nights and/or weekends.

• Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy.
• Prepares and portions food for special diets following food service procedures.
• May prepare scheduled snacks and supplements and maintain supply of snack items.
• Distributes food in a safe and sanitary manner according to food service policies.
• May assist in serving food for special diets and follow food service procedures.
• Follows proper food handling in accordance with food service procedures, state, federal, and HACCP guidelines.
• May receive delivery of food and supplies from vendors.
• Follows sanitation procedures for cleaning dishes and food service equipment, and maintains sanitary work areas.
• Follows safety procedures and practices; handles cash in a safe and secure manner when in hospital canteen operations.
• Maintains work areas in a sanitary and organized manner.
• Performs other duties as assigned, including disaster response and/or COOP activation as needed.

• Knowledge of food preparation methods, storage standards, and sanitation regulations.
• Skills in operating and sanitizing food service equipment.
• Ability to prepare and serve food, clean dining and preparation areas, and maintain records.
• Ability to speak and read English; follow written and oral instructions; perform basic math used in cooking/preparation.
• Physical ability to lift at least 25 pounds; stand, bend, reach, and walk on hard floors for extended periods.
• Ability to work in hot and/or cold conditions; sensory abilities to smell, taste, and see.
• Ability to work harmoniously and productively with coworkers and patients.

If required to drive a state vehicle, must possess a valid Texas driver license or obtain it within 90 days of hire. Out-of-state license holders must provide a certified driving record. Eligible driving record required per HHSC Fleet Management policy.

• Twelve (12) months of experience cooking in a service operation.
• Applicants must pass fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks (CANRS, Nurse Aide, Medication Aide, and LEIE).
• Male applicants 18-25 must be registered with Selective Service.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old;
  Waco Center for Youth applicants must be 21.
• Flexibility in work hours; overtime and/or extended hours may be required.
• Compliance with HHSC immunization policy; vaccination required or protective measures as per policy.

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