Chef

Growth Centers of America

Position Overview

The Chef is responsible for overseeing daily kitchen operations and preparing nutritious, appealing meals for adolescents within our residential treatment program. This role supports a positive and structured environment through food preparation, menu planning, kitchen organization, and consistent meal service.

What You'll Do

Kitchen Operations & Meal Preparation

• Prepare and cook daily meals and snacks for adolescent residents
• Develop rotating menus that are balanced, nutritious, and appealing to teens ages 12-17
• Prepare a variety of foods including grilled, baked, sautéed, fried, and cold dishes
• Follow and create recipes while introducing creative meal ideas and specials
• Coordinate kitchen responsibilities and maintain efficient daily operations
• Ensure meals are prepared and served according to scheduling requirements

Food Safety & Organization

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment
• Properly store, label, rotate, and monitor food inventory
• Ensure compliance with health, sanitation, and food handling regulations
• Keep cooking stations cleaned, stocked, and organized throughout shifts
• Safely operate and maintain kitchen equipment and tools

Client Environment & Team Support

• Contribute positively to the therapeutic environment through professionalism and consistency
• Maintain appropriate boundaries and professionalism while interacting with adolescent clients
• Work collaboratively with program staff and leadership
• Support a welcoming and structured dining experience for clients
• Maintain flexibility and composure in a fast-paced residential setting

Who You Are

You are passionate about cooking and understand the impact that quality meals and consistency can have in a therapeutic environment. You are dependable, organized, and thrive in environments where teamwork, structure, and adaptability are essential.

You are someone who:

• Takes pride in preparing high-quality meals and maintaining kitchen standards
• Demonstrates strong organization, cleanliness, and time management skills
• Remains calm and professional in fast-paced or high-pressure situations
• Enjoys creating meals that are both nutritious and engaging for teens
• Works collaboratively and contributes positively to team culture
• Understands the importance of professionalism and consistency in a residential treatment setting

What You Bring

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of experience working in kitchen, restaurant, food service, or residential settings
• Knowledge of kitchen equipment, food preparation techniques, sanitation, and food safety standards
• Ability to lift heavy pots, food containers, and kitchen equipment
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's degree, culinary degree, or culinary certification preferred
• Experience in residential treatment, behavioral health, school, or healthcare settings
• Experience preparing meals for large groups or institutional settings
• Creative culinary skills and menu planning experience

Why Join Growth Centers of America?

At Growth Centers of America, you'll join a mission-driven team dedicated to creating meaningful change in the lives of adolescents and families. We value compassion, collaboration, accountability, and personal growth - both for the clients we serve and the professionals who serve them.

This is more than a culinary role - it is an opportunity to create comfort, consistency, and positive daily experiences for adolescents during important moments in their lives.