Cook

The salary range is based on several factors, including, but not limited to, overall experience, relevant experience, education level, certifications, applicable skills, and expertise.

Join UP! We are lighting the path home, one person at a time.

About Urban Pathways

Since 1975, Urban Pathways has engaged New York City’s most vulnerable residents, people on the streets or in areas unfit for human habitation, “lighting the path home, one person at a time.” Urban Pathways is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of unhoused adults, empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and abilities. We provide essential support and foster an environment where individuals can redefine their narratives and become their best selves.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Director of Operations/Kitchen Supervisor, the Cook works independently and/or in a team to prepare monthly food menus, cook food, serve meals, and keep kitchen area clean and neat. The Cook will be an active listener and provide high-quality customer service and respond by exhibiting cross-cultural awareness with the ability to promote and contribute to an equitable and inclusive anti-racist organizational culture and environment.

Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions

Food Preparation/Facilities

1. Prepares meal menu and cooks food.

1. Assures meal plans meet nutritional requirements.

1. Prepares menus for four-week cycles taking into account seasonal and holiday menus. Prepares meals in accordance with diverse nutritional and religious restrictions (e.g. Allergies, sodium, vegetarian, lactose intolerance, etc.).

1. Presents food in an appealing manner.

1. Monitors food temperature consistent with all health and safety regulations. 

1. Receives, checks, and stores all food and kitchen supplies delivered to the facility.

1. Rejects damaged foods upon delivery.

1. Monitors food donations in accordance with health and safety regulations.

1. Stores food in accordance with health, safety and fire department regulations.  

1. Utilizes best practice for First-in/First-out food storage. 

1. Monitors food storage climate and temperature consistent with health and safety regulations.

1. Maintains kitchen area and equipment in clean and sanitary manner.

1. Cleans all equipment, counters and floors after every meal.

1. Keeps kitchen area neat.

1. Ensures that all food containers are properly labeled, dated and stored.

1. Washes dishes, utensils, dinner trays, pots, and pans according to sanitary procedures. 

1. Cleans and sanitizes equipment and area after every meal.

1. Ensures that proper water temperatures are utilized.

1. Monitors that dishwashers are operating properly.

1. Serves meals to clients.

1. Keeps uniform neat and clean.

1. Projects professionalism and courtesy at all times.

1. Maintains good personal health and hygiene.

1. Wears gloves and hair nets when handling food.

Administrative

1. Prepares purchase requisitions for food and kitchen supplies.

1. Maintains daily meal count.

1. Maintains inventory of food supplies and equipment. 

1. Provides food reports as required. 

1. Informs the Director of Operations/Kitchen Supervisor on needed repairs and replacement of kitchen equipment and utensils.

Community Relations

1. Represents Urban Pathways and responds to inquiries as needed. 

Communication

1. Communicates verbally and in writing in a professional manner at all times.

1. Attends staff meetings, trainings, and supervisory sessions, as required.

1. Responds to all communications including telephone, email and other oral and written inquiries in a timely manner.

1. Performs all other duties as assigned and as required.

Qualifications, Education and Experience

• High School Diploma, GED or equivalent preferred.
• Food Handler Certificaterequired.
• Minimum one year of experience in food preparation for residential population of at least 50 preferred. 
• Knowledge of food and nutrition.
• Experience with people experiencing homeless, mental illness and/or substance abuse population preferred

Skills & Competencies  

• Basic computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office (e.g. Word, Outlook, etc.)a plus.
• Basic written and verbal communication skills.
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work independently or in a team.

• Work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
• Foreign languages a plus.

Other

• Completion of recent PPD Test within one-year of employment and annually thereafter required.
• Required to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, and evenings.

Capabilities

• Desire to perform the essential functions of this job.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Comfortable with using public transportation to travel to and from various program sites.

Licenses

• NYS Food Handlers Certificate or equivalent required.
• CPR, First Aid required within 3 months of hire.
• AED preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, push, pull, lift (up to 50 lbs.), climb stairs, type, write, read, speak, see, and hear.

Urban Pathways offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. 

These benefits include:

• Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to keep you and your family in good health.
• Retirement Savings: A 403(b) plan and a 401(a) with employer annual contribution to help you plan for a secure financial future.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Work-life balance is important to us, and we offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate your needs.
• Wellness Programs: Employee wellness programs, including fitness initiatives and mental health support.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal or work-related issues.
• Employee Recognition: Recognition programs to celebrate and reward outstanding contributions.