Head Cook

Head Cook Position

The Ravenswood Senior Center is seeking an experienced, dependable, and passionate Head Cook to lead daily kitchen operations and help provide nutritious, high-quality meals to older adults. This is an excellent opportunity for a culinary professional who enjoys serving the community while working in a stable, mission-driven environment with outstanding benefits.

The Head Cook oversees all kitchen operations, including menu planning, food preparation, inventory management, food safety compliance, and supervision of kitchen staff. The successful candidate will ensure meals are prepared and served in accordance with DFTA and DOHMH standards while maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming dining experience for senior participants.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve daily breakfast and lunch meals for approximately 100-150 senior participants.
• Develop menus in compliance with DFTA nutrition requirements and Simple Servings guidelines.
• Order food and kitchen supplies and maintain inventory records.
• Monitor food quality, storage, temperatures, and sanitation procedures.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment.
• Complete required reports, inspections, and regulatory logs.
• Supervise and train kitchen staff, interns, volunteers, and food handlers.
• Assist with special events, holiday programs, and community activities.
• Attend required trainings and staff meetings.

Qualifications

Required

• Valid NYC Food Protection Certificate.
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum two (2) years of experience preparing meals in a commercial or institutional kitchen.
• Experience working in a community-based, senior services, healthcare, or food service setting.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift kitchen supplies and equipment as needed.
• COVID-19 vaccination.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

Preferred

• Experience working with older adults or senior centers.
• CPR, AED, and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Knowledge of DFTA, DOHMH, and food safety regulations.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Outlook.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.

HANAC Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Contribution
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Transit Benefits Program
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability Coverage
• 20 Days Paid Vacation
• 11 Paid Holidays
• 2 Personal Days

If you are a dedicated culinary professional looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of New York City's seniors, we encourage you to apply.

HANAC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.