Cook

Overview

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. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more.

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

Functional

Title:

Cook I
Job Title: Cook I
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Food Service
Posting Number: 10108
Closing Date: 01/07/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Food Preparation and Serving Related
Salary Group: TEXAS-A-09
Salary Range: $2,639.75-$3,404.91
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 5%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility

Location:

Brenham State Supported Living Center
Job Location City: BRENHAM
Job Location Address: 4001 S HWY 36
Other Locations: —

Come work in an environment where we truly value and respect those we serve and believe in the mission that all people can achieve a higher level of wellness and independence.

The state supported living centers serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are medically fragile or who have behavioral problems. The centers provide campus-based direct services and supports at 13 centers located throughout the state. Learn About Our State Supported Living Centers

If you are looking for a place to work where you can establish a career that is filled with purpose, this is the job for you!

The Cook I performs routine (journey level) food preparation work on a designated shift & rotation in the Central Kitchen under general supervision. May be required to work variable schedule. Work involves preparing, cooking, portioning, distributing and serving food for regular & therapeutic diets & textures. Follows prescribed menus, recipes, standards and completes necessary reports. Responsible for sanitation of equipment and work areas.

May work in the ingredient room or drive the delivery vehicle. Other duties may be required. Cook I has moderate latitude for the use of initiative and judgment. In the absence of Cook II/III this position assumes oversight of the kitchen. May train/oversee others in their work. 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. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays. May work unusual or extended hours in the event of a disaster or operational necessity.

• Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or rotating schedules, extended shift and/or overtime as needed.
• Prepares food using proper equipment and utensils ensuring sanitary conditions.
• Prepares and portions food for special diets following food service procedures.
• May supervise assigned employees in all areas of food preparation, delivery, sanitation, safety and personal hygiene.
• Distributes food in a safe and sanitary manner according to food service policies.
• Follows procedures for sanitation and storage of dishes and equipment.
• Receives delivery of food and supplies from vendors when required.
• Maintains work areas in a sanitary and organized manner.
• May assist in serving food for special diets and follow food service procedures.
• Follows safety procedures and practices.
• May work in the facility canteen and handle cash in a secure manner where applicable.
• Completes required training and participates in disaster recovery or COOP activation as needed.

• Knowledge of food preparation methods, storage standards and sanitation regulations.
• Skill 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 and follow written and oral instructions.
• Ability to complete basic math used in cooking/preparation.
• Ability to lift a minimum of 25 pounds and to bend, reach, stand/walk for extended periods.
• Ability to work in hot and/or cold conditions and to perceive through smell, taste, and sight.
• Ability to work harmoniously with coworkers and residents.

Position may require driving and a valid Driver's License with eligible driving record. Applicants with an out-of-state license must provide a certified driving record or obtain a Texas Driver's License.

• Experience in food preparation work.
• Graduation from standard high school or equivalent is preferred; experience and education may be substituted on a year-for-year…