Cook - PT

Job Details

• Job Location:
  
  Ember Recovery Campus
  - Cambridge, IA 50046
• Position Type:
  Part Time
• Education Level: High School/GED
• Travel Percentage:
  None
• Job Shift: Any
• Job Category:
  Direct Care
  - Residential Addiction Treatment

• Prepare and serve nutritious, high-quality meals that meet YSS standards and program guidelines
• Assist with menu planning, food prep, inventory, food storage, and kitchen organization
• Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary kitchen, dining, and prep environment
• Follow food safety, sanitation, risk management, and workplace safety procedures at all times
• Support efficient meal production, service, and distribution operations
• Complete records, logs, and documentation related to food safety, licensing, and program compliance
• Help manage supplies and work within budget expectations
• Collaborate with staff, volunteers, and participants during meal preparation and service
• Help teach participants basic cooking, kitchen, and food preparation skills
• Assist with campus gardens, greenhouses, and other nutrition-related initiatives as needed
• Participate in trainings, team meetings, and daily kitchen operations

This is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.

You’re the kind of person who can keep a kitchen moving, a meal tasting great, and your cool during the lunch rush. You’re organized, dependable, and not afraid to jump in wherever needed — whether that’s prepping ingredients, serving meals, or saving the day when someone forgot to thaw the chicken.

You love good food, teamwork, and the satisfaction of feeding people well. Most importantly, you know a great meal can turn someone’s whole day around.

• Supportive leadership team and mission-driven culture
• Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees
• Flu shots and mental health support resources
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualified employer

We want to create a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong. To do this, we ask our staff to embrace YSS core values
- Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a “Can Do” Spirit.

• Have at least 1 year of experience in food prep, equipment operation, food storage, and record keeping
• Be able to follow recipes accurately (and occasionally level them up)
• Communicate clearly through conversation, instruction, and written notes
• Stay organized and manage time, tools, and ingredients effectively
• Work well with others and thrive as part of a team

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Food safety or culinary certifications (Food Handler, Food Manager, Allergen Awareness, ACF, etc.)
• Professional cooking experience preparing and plating hot and cold dishes
• Experience with a variety of cooking techniques and kitchen equipment
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, storage, and cooking temperatures
• A willingness to learn, grow, and support others in the kitchen

• Has education in Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Nutrition, or a related field
• Truly loves cooking — people can taste the difference
• Is dependable, self-motivated, and great at taking initiative
• Is rooted in purpose and driven by equity, inclusion, and positive social impact.
• Brings humility, respect, and cultural awareness to every interaction.
• Speaks a second language (especially one spoken in our communities).

Have you navigated recovery from addiction, mental health challenges, trauma, or housing instability?

Your lived experience offers a unique, compassionate perspective that can inspire real change. By sharing your story and…