Line Cook

Line Cook

The Line Cook will work with the food service team, under the immediate supervision of the Brigaid Program Chef, to oversee daily food production and ensure that food preparation and storage areas are clean and organized, in compliance with NYC Department of Health regulations.

This position is a full-time position with benefits that include medical insurance (with Employee contribution), Dental & Vision plans with coverage beginning on the first day of hire, generous paid time off (vacation, personal days, sick days and earned floating holidays), 403(b) with 3% Employer Match after a year of employment, Flexible Spending Account, Dependent Care and transit benefits.

Job Responsibilities:

• Prepare and cook meals according to established menus, standardized recipes, and required guidelines;
• Prepare meals in quantities appropriate for Encore's programs and meal service needs;
• Follow portion-control standards and ensure meals are prepared and served consistently;
• Assist with preparing meals that accommodate special dietary needs and food restrictions, as directed;
• Ensure all food is properly handled, stored, labeled, and maintained at appropriate temperatures;
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health regulations, including proper handwashing, cleaning, and sanitizing procedures;
• Monitor food quality, freshness, appearance, taste, and portion sizes before meals are served;
• Operate and safely maintain kitchen equipment, including ovens, stoves, mixers, slicers, and other food-service equipment;
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen, food preparation areas, and storage spaces;
• Ensure food safety, cleanliness and organization standards are maintained to the highest level at all times;
• Minimize food waste and use supplies efficiently;
• Communicate with the Culinary Services team regarding menu needs, inventory, equipment, and any food safety concerns;
• Assist with meal packaging and preparation for home-delivered meal services, as needed;
• Maintain required records, including those related to food production, purchasing, and inventory, as well as all HACCP documentation, including food safety and temperature logs;
• Assist with monthly physical inventory of food and supplies;
• Use standardized recipes to produce Department for the Aging (DFTA)-compliant meals;
• Adhere to all Encore Community Services, DFTA and Department of Health policies and standards;
• Comply with all Encore policies and procedures and applicable City and State food-service regulations;
• Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism when interacting with older adults, clients, staff, volunteers, and visitors;
• Assist with any other job-related tasks, including, but not limited to, setting up and breaking down kitchens, receiving and storing ingredients and supplies, packing and serving food, cleaning kitchens, and doing dishes;
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Job Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED);
• Must have a valid NYC Department of Health Food Protection Certificate, or the ability to take the self-paced course and pass the exam prior to hire;
• At least 2 years of professional cooking experience. High-volume cooking experience is a plus;
• Previous experience working in a commercial kitchen, institutional food service, or similar setting preferred;
• Knowledge of food preparation techniques, kitchen equipment, and safe food-handling practices;
• Ability to follow standardized recipes, portion-control guidelines, and meal specifications;
• Ability to prepare meals in quantities appropriate for large-scale food service;
• Knowledge of sanitation, food safety, and proper food storage procedures;
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate clearly with kitchen and program staff;
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining quality and cleanliness;
• Ability to follow instructions and comply with organizational policies and procedures;
• Experience preparing meals for older adults or individuals with special dietary needs is a plus;
• Other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods and safely lift, carry, and move food supplies (up to 50 pounds) as required.

Encore Community Services is dedicated to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best work. We believe that diversity in our team drives innovation, enriches our perspectives, and enhances our ability to serve our communities effectively.

Due to the high volume of applicants, only qualified candidates will be contacted. No phone calls please. Encore Community Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, socio-economic status, marital status, national or ethnic origin, age, religion or creed, disability, or political or sexual orientation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities as defined by the ADA to perform the essential functions of the job.