Contracted Meals Driver

OVERVIEW

In an atmosphere of dignity and respect, Inspiration Corporation connects people and creates opportunity through access to social services, job training, housing, and food. Each year, Inspiration Corporation works with hundreds of resilient Chicagoans who face systemic disparities and inequities, such as homelessness, hunger, and social isolation. To help individuals and families overcome these barriers, we provide dedicated support coupled with housing, job training, scholarships, meals and engagement services. Our case management philosophy is strengths‑based and trauma‑informed, with a focus on harm reduction and motivational interviewing. Inspiration Kitchen is the social enterprise restaurant, catering and foodservice training and employment program of Inspiration Corporation, preparing contemporary American cuisine and offering paid, on‑the‑job experience for low‑income job seekers. The restaurant’s revenue helps support the larger mission of the organization.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Contracted Meals Driver is vital to the success of the agency’s catering services, responsible for the timely and safe transportation of up to 1,500 daily meals to the Shelter Placement and Resource Center (SPARC). The part‑time role (up to 29 hours per week) is part of the Restaurant Operations team. In addition to driving, the driver assists with meal preparation, including assembling and packaging cold sandwiches and preparing food.

GENERAL DUTIES

Demonstrate Inspiration Corporation’s Core Values. Uphold Policies and Procedures of Inspiration Corporation and Inspiration Kitchens. Exhibit professionalism and high standards in all aspects of performance. Maintain a safe environment inside the kitchen and throughout the facility. Be proactive in pest control with guidance from supervisor. Follow health, safety, and sanitation guidelines for all products. Attend required trainings and department and agency meetings. Perform other duties assigned by Contracted Meals Chef or Manager on Duty to support program operations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Meal Preparation, Delivery & Logistics Safely operate company vehicles to transport meals from Inspiration Kitchens to delivery sites. Ensure meals are handled with care during loading, transit, and unloading to maintain quality and presentation. Assemble and package cold sandwiches per instruction. Assist in preparing food, including cleaning and cutting ingredients, and cooking food according to provided recipes. Reheat or finish meals as needed using on‑site kitchen equipment before delivery. Verify accuracy of meal orders with the Manager on Duty prior to delivery and communicate any discrepancies immediately. Follow assigned delivery routes efficiently, adapting to changes or urgent requests as needed. Maintain vehicle cleanliness, conduct routine safety checks, log all trips in the mileage log, and ensure vehicles are refueled when reaching a quarter tank. Assist with loading and unloading meal supplies and equipment as necessary. Perform other duties as assigned to support restaurant operations. Food Safety & Compliance Adhere to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation protocols during meal handling and transport. Maintain proper temperature controls to ensure food safety standards are met. Participate in training sessions related to food handling and delivery procedures. Team Collaboration & Communication Coordinate with the Contracted Meals Manager, kitchen staff, and other drivers to ensure smooth delivery of operations. Report any vehicle issues, delays, or incidents to the Contracted Meals Manager promptly. Provide excellent customer service and represent Inspiration Corporation professionally during deliveries. Attend required trainings and staff meetings. Food Recovery & Sustainability (Supportive Role) Assist with coordinating and organizing recovered food from partners, including Green City Market. Help record weights and types of donated goods to maintain accurate donation data. Support proper storage, rotation, and organization of recovered items to ensure freshness and food safety.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

High school diploma or equivalent required. A valid ServSafe Food Handler Certification required and must be obtained within 30 days of position start date. Prior experience in driving delivery preferred. Familiarity with local delivery routes in Chicago is a plus. Patience with the ability to stay positive, complete work on time while maintaining focus in a fast‑paced environment. A team player that communicates effectively and demonstrates a positive, solution‑oriented attitude with a commitment to quality. Dependable, punctual, and able to work independently and as part of a team. Flexible availability, including early mornings, late evenings, weekends and holidays. A Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) demonstrating a clean driving record and a current, valid, state‑issued driver’s license is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, walk, talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to walk, bend, lift and stand for long periods. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The Contracted Meals Driver is a part‑time position, working up to 29 hours per week in accordance with the demands of meals, catering and restaurant services. Work shifts include early mornings, late evenings, weekends and holidays. Work is performed at Inspiration Kitchens in East Garfield Park on Chicago’s west side. Inspiration Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Inspiration Corporation