Part-Time Lead Cook

Lead Cook

Reporting to the Director of Special Projects, the Lead Cook will work closely with the Brigaid Program Chef and kitchen team to execute DREAM’s vision of a best-in-class food and nutrition program. The Lead Cook will assist with leading the kitchen team in daily production and service of meals to DREAM students and staff, and training the kitchen team on basic cooking techniques, recipes, measurements, food safety, and organization. This is an exciting opportunity for a culinary professional committed to supporting the community’s engagement with food to help execute a one of a kind food program in service of DREAM’s students and families.

Overseeing DREAM’s National School Lunch Program (NSLP)-compliant food service program

Implementing operating standards, protocols, and SOPs that promote the highest level of food quality, food safety and consistency

Ensuring food safety, cleanliness and organization standards are maintained to the highest level at all times

Placing orders for food and supplies and ensuring all deliveries are promptly received and stored

Executing monthly physical inventory of food and supplies

Managing part-time cooks to ensure that all standards are met in regards to food quality, food safety, meal compliance, meal presentation, personnel safety and well-being, and facility and equipment upkeep

Maintaining required records, including those related to food production, purchasing, and inventory, as well as all HACCP documentation, including food safety and temperature logs

Monitoring feedback and preferences from students and responding proactively through menu/recipe adjustments

Executing food production for special events, such as fundraisers and community meals

Additional tasks as necessary, including dishwashing, cleaning, and organizing kitchen and storage areas

Interfacing with DREAM students, employees, and leadership from a wide variety of backgrounds, establishing and maintaining strong relationships with families, students, and school staff and leaders

At least 3 years of professional cooking experience (with at least one year of kitchen supervisory experience preferred)

Valid NYC DOH Food Protection Certificate, or the ability to take the self-paced course and pass the exam prior to starting

Strong understanding of good food safety practices

Strong management skills, with the ability to direct food service teams as well as work well under pressure

Possesses strong critical thinking and planning skills, with the ability to collaborate on setting and implementing a vision of excellence

Familiar with USDA NSLP and Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) standards and regulations, or the ability to learn and adhere to these standards

Basic computer literacy, including Microsoft and Google programs and Zoom

A strong belief in the mission and values of DREAM, including the belief that all students can succeed, and a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of DREAM students, families, and the community

Flexible Medical Health Plans, subsidizing the majority of costs for the employee, their spouse/domestic partner and children

The ability to select between a variety of medical plans according to what best suits the employee’s needs

Dental and vision plans

Disability benefits

Life insurance

Flexible spending account options

Pre-tax commuter benefits (parking and transit)

A variety of support through our employee assistance program (EAP)

403(b) retirement plan with employer match starting at 4% after one year, with increases tied to DREAM tenure

Referral, performance, and tenure milestone bonuses

Discounted school meals through our in-house Scratch Food Program

Tuition reimbursement support

School-based 12-month employees have approximately 48 days off throughout the school year including holidays, school breaks, personal days, and wellness days

New hires are typically brought into the organization at a salary closer to the start of the range depending on qualifications, internal equity, and the budgeted amount for the role. All regular employees receive annual compensation increases and have the opportunity to earn both performance- and tenure-based bonuses. DREAM provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws. If accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact your recruiter.

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