Cook

JOB DESCRIPTION

Cook - Shelter (P/T Weekends)
Program Type: Shelter Services - Residential Meal Program
Schedule: Saturday - Sunday | 3 Meals Daily | Weekend Coverage | Part-Time

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Part-Time Weekend Cook to join The Good Seed team in Los Angeles, CA. This role supports residents in temporary housing facilities by preparing healthy, nutritious, and culturally responsive meals in a trauma-informed, client-centered environment.

The Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving meals that meet diverse dietary and nutritional needs while maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming kitchen environment. This role also supports residents in promoting overall wellness through access to balanced nutrition.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan, prepare, and serve approximately 3 meals per day for 10-20 residents during weekend shifts
• Develop weekly meal plans for approval, ensuring nutritional balance and budget alignment
• Accommodate dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-sodium diets
• Order and manage food supplies and kitchen inventory
• Maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and food safety standards in the kitchen at all times
• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations
• Support residents in understanding and meeting nutrition goals when appropriate
• Foster a respectful, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all residents and staff
• Maintain professional boundaries and adhere to program policies and ethics
• Collaborate with staff to ensure safe and efficient program operations
• Enforce house rules and support a safe living environment
• Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• 2-4 years of culinary experience
• Valid California Food Handler's License
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record
• Ability to provide own transportation for work-related needs
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, residential care environment
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Nutrition, or related field
• Registered Dietitian certification or nutrition background
• Experience working in shelter, residential care, or community-based programs
• Experience working with youth or vulnerable populations

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position operates in a residential shelter and community-based kitchen setting in Los Angeles, CA. The role requires standing for long periods, frequent movement, and the ability to lift up to 30 lbs.

Candidates must be able to remain calm and effective in a fast-paced environment while demonstrating professionalism, respect, and a commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive space for residents.

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

The Good Seed's mission is to provide specialized, compassionate care and services that promote better health outcomes by addressing the social determinants of health.

We deliver on this mission through four key approaches:

• Intensive care management
• Specialized housing
• Community engagement
• Innovative special projects