Kitchen Manager​/Cook

Kitchen Manager/Cook

Primo Center is seeking qualified, caring individuals who want to make a difference by supporting families experiencing homelessness by working as the Kitchen Manager/Cook.

The mission of Primo Center is to empower families to become productive, responsible, and independent members of their community. Today, Primo Center is a leader in providing family shelter and permanent supportive housing, as well as integrated physical, dental, and mental health care, early childhood development, and supportive services to homeless families in Chicago.

Base pay range: $48,000.00/yr - $58,000.00/yr.

Kitchen Manager/Cook works primarily in the Triage Shelter Program, a 40‑bed shelter that serves women who are experiencing homelessness. The Kitchen Manager/Cook oversees all aspects of food service—from menu planning to meal preparation, ordering, inventory, and kitchen cleanliness. This role requires strong culinary skills, excellent organization, and the ability to work independently while collaborating with staff and volunteers.

• Food programming and meal preparation (60%)
• Plan and maintain weekly menus that meet USDA dietary guidelines, with adjustments for residents’ health needs (e.g., diabetes).
• Prepare and serve lunch and dinner daily; assemble bagged lunches as needed.
• Prepare meals in advance for scheduled time off and unexpected absences.
• Ensure all food is stored and handled according to sanitation and safety standards.
• Maintain organized pantries, refrigerators, and freezers.
• Clean and sanitize all food preparation and storage areas, including coolers, ovens, and grills.

• Ordering, inventory and compliance (15%)
• Manage ordering, delivery, and inventory of food and kitchen supplies.
• Maintain required inspections, licenses, and certifications.
• Report facility‑related kitchen needs to the Facilities and Maintenance Manager.

• Collaboration and volunteer support (15%)
• Provide guidance to volunteers preparing meals during working hours.
• Coordinate with staff to ensure smooth kitchen operations.

• Administrative and team participation (10%)
• Attend supervision and staff meetings as required.
• Complete all mandatory training.

• Required
• 3–5 years cooking experience in a food service establishment.
• Food Service Manager Certification and City of Chicago License (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire).
• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and/or trauma (preferred).

• Preferred
• Food Service Manager Certification & City of Chicago License prior to hire.
• AAS Degree in Culinary Arts or completion of a workforce culinary or related training program.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills, leadership experience.

• Character:
  We lead with integrity, empathy, and personal responsibility.
• Respect:
  We honor the dignity, differences, and contributions of every individual.
• Accountability:
  We own our actions, follow through on commitments, and strive for excellence.
• Teamwork:
  We collaborate, support one another, and build a culture of shared success.
• Safety:
  We maintain a secure, welcoming environment—for both our clients and colleagues.

• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Long periods of standing (4–6 hrs or more), working in extremely hot or cold conditions in the kitchen and freezers.
• Able to crawl or lower oneself to the ground for kitchen upkeep requirements.

The Kitchen Manager/Cook will report to the Triage Program Director, with support of the Chief Program Officer.

Salary: $48,000.00–$58,000.00 (exempt, full‑time).

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, domestic partner & family coverage, 401(k), flexible spending accounts, paid time off, wellness days, paid holidays, life/AD&D insurance, employee assistance program, mileage reimbursement, and voluntary AFLAC plans.

Primo Center is an equal opportunity employer. The agency does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran or military status or any other protected status in accordance with federal and state law.