Assistant/Prep Cook

Job Description

Job Description

The Assistant Cook / Prep Cook works under the direction of the Head Cook to support the daily operations of the Nikiski Senior Center kitchen. This position is responsible for assisting with meal preparation, Meals on Wheels production, salad bar preparation, kitchen cleanliness, and other food service duties as assigned.

The ideal candidate will be comfortable cooking from scratch , have strong knife skills , be able to work efficiently in a busy kitchen environment, and demonstrate a commitment to preparing nutritious, appealing, and safe meals for seniors and community members.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare daily Meals on Wheels meals for delivery.
• Prepare salads for the daily Salad Bar and Meals on Wheels meals.
• Prepare and set up the Salad Bar by 11:00 a.m.
• Break down and clean the Salad Bar by approximately 1:00 p.m.
• Clean and wipe down the Salad Bar station daily.
• Assist the Head Cook with meal preparation and other kitchen duties as needed.
• Cook and prepare food from scratch , following recipes, established menus, and food safety practices.
• Demonstrate and maintain proper knife skills and safe food-preparation techniques.
• Cover the Head Cook position when the Head Cook is out sick or on vacation, as needed and within the employee's capabilities.
• Assist with creating the monthly Meals on Wheels menu .
• Clean and maintain the kitchen and equipment as directed by the Head Cook.
• Follow proper food handling, sanitation, storage, and temperature-control procedures.
• Assist with occasional catering events, special events, fundraisers, and other food-service activities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Head Cook or Executive Director.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Previous experience in a commercial kitchen, food service, senior nutrition program, catering, or similar environment preferred.
• Must be able to cook from scratch.
• Strong knife skills are required.
• Ability to follow recipes, menus, portion guidelines, and food safety procedures.
• Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a kitchen team.
• Ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks in a timely manner.
• Ability to safely lift, carry, bend, reach, stand, and perform other physical activities associated with kitchen work.
• Must be dependable, punctual, and able to maintain a consistent work schedule.
• Must demonstrate professionalism, respect, and compassion when working with seniors, staff, volunteers, and community members.
• Must be able to pass a State of Alaska background check.
• Must obtain a State of Alaska Food Worker Card within 30 days of hire , if not already current.
• Current CPR/First Aid certification required.

We support people on their aging journey through community connections and accessible services.
Nikiski Senior Center (NSC) is an open community center with a mission focus on senior citizens, 55+. NSC provides daily lunch service, transportation, activities and events, information, assistance, and referrals. NSC operates numerous programs totaling over $1 million in budgets, including the Caregiver Support and the Senior In-home grant programs.

Company Description

We support people on their aging journey through community connections and accessible services.\r\nNikiski Senior Center (NSC) is an open community center with a mission focus on senior citizens, 55+. NSC provides daily lunch service, transportation, activities and events, information, assistance, and referrals. NSC operates numerous programs totaling over $1 million in budgets, including the Caregiver Support and the Senior In-home grant programs.