Food Service Worker

Overview At the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney, the Food Service Worker supports daily kitchen operations in a secure, supportive environment. The mission is to help youth live better lives through effective services and give them a chance to become law‑abiding citizens. Responsibilities Prepare, season, cook, and bake food items according to menus, recipes, dietary requirements, and portion guidelines. Ensure meals are prepared and served in compliance with food safety and sanitation standards. Train and assist food service staff in food preparation, serving procedures, dishwashing, cleaning, and routine equipment maintenance. Clean, maintain, and operate kitchen equipment, utensils, and food preparation areas. Maintain kitchen and dining room records and documentation. Assist with inventory management, including ordering, receiving, storing, and distributing food and supplies. Monitor food quality, portion control, and meal service operations. Assist with menu planning and meal preparation scheduling. Support daily kitchen operations and ensure compliance with facility policies and procedures. May assist with scheduling work assignments and coordinating daily activities of food service staff. Requirements & Qualifications Minimum: Completed coursework, training and/or experience in food preparation, baking, or kitchen operations in the food service industry or a related field. Preferred: Experience in institutional, school, healthcare, correctional, or large‑scale food service operations. Preferred: Experience training or leading other staff. Preferred: Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations. Preferred: Experience with inventory management and ordering procedures. Knowledge of food preparation and cooking techniques, baking methods, recipe preparation, food safety, sanitation, kitchen safety practices, special diets, kitchen equipment, and inventory control. Ability to prepare a wide variety of meals and baked goods following recipes, menus, and dietary requirements accurately. Ability to train and guide food service staff. Ability to safely operate kitchen equipment and tools. Ability to maintain accurate records and inventory documentation. Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced kitchen environment and follow instructions. Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and customers. Physical ability to lift, carry, bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods. Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures and humidity levels. Schedule & Compensation Schedule: 11:30am – 7:30pm, with 1–2 morning shifts during the week. Pay: starts at $18.07 per hour. Benefits 156% state‑matched retirement. 13 paid holidays plus generous leave starting immediately. Medical, dental, and vision insurance. $20,000 employer‑paid life insurance. Tuition reimbursement and professional development. Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Fun, mission‑driven, supportive team environment. Job stability in public service. Equal Opportunity Statement The State of Nebraska values its teammates and creates a supportive environment that promotes diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, or genetics. #J-18808-Ljbffr