Food Skills Trainer/Cook

Payrate: $17.33 - $22.54 (pay level is based on education and experience)

Christopher Place Employment Academy is an intensive residential employment program that provides education and training, as well as recovery support to formerly homeless men of the Baltimore area. During the first three months of their stay, the men formally commit to a minimum of six months in residency to acquire the necessary skills and financial standing to be successful in the community. The commitment is designed to support these men in their transition from a lifestyle of homelessness and substance abuse or dependency to a positive routine in training towards future employment and stable living.

Catholic Charities of Baltimore, Christopher Place Employment Academy within our Daily Bread Employment Center is currently seeking a Food Skills Trainer/Cook, who will be responsible for the daily operation of the kitchen, including preparing and cooking large quantities of food following standardized recipes and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations as well as established policies and procedures. In addition, the position includes delivering hands-on training in basic cooking and food preparation techniques, teaching students foundational skills in the kitchen, including, but not limited to, food safety, sanitation, and meal preparation, with the goal of preparing them for entry-level positions in the food service industry. The work schedule is Monday - Friday, 10:00am-6:00pm.

 JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develops and delivers engaging, hands-on lessons in basic culinary techniques, knife skills, food safety, preparing simple, nutritious meals, cooking methods, food service, and sanitation standards.
• Guides and supports students, providing feedback and encouragement to help them build confidence in the kitchen. Assesses students’ progress, skill development, and readiness for employment.
• Develops and plans menus as needed, ensuring balanced portion sizes, nutritional value, and the efficient use of donated food supplies. Assists with meal preparation and presentation for special events or activities, providing support as required. Monitors and maintains appropriate inventory levels, ensuring that food supplies are stocked and rotated regularly to minimize waste and ensure consistent meal quality.
• Maintains a thorough and practical understanding of health, safety, and sanitation standards to ensure the kitchen environment adheres to all regulatory guidelines. This includes regularly reviewing and implementing best practices for food safety, proper handling and storage of ingredients, and the safe use of kitchen equipment.
• Monitors cleanliness and sanitation protocols, ensuring that students follow procedures for regular cleaning, sanitizing, and maintaining a hygienic workspace. Conducts routine checks to identify potential hazards, taking proactive steps to address any risks, and ensures that all employees are trained and consistently follow safety practices to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses and workplace accidents.
• Accepts and inspects food donations, ensuring that all items meet quality and safety standards before being accepted into the kitchen inventory. Ensures that perishable items are stored promptly and correctly, maintaining proper temperatures and conditions to preserve food quality and prevent spoilage. Non-perishable items are stored in designated areas, following a clear organization system to facilitate easy access and efficient use.
• Maintains records and statistics associated with kitchen operations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: 

• 1 year of kitchen supervisory and/or training experience.
• 2 years of cooking experience in a commercial kitchen / restaurant environment.
• General understanding of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).

Certification/Licensure:

• ServSafe® Food Handler certified or must obtain certification within three months of employment and maintain thereafter.

REQUIRED SKILLS & ABILITIES: 

• Reliability by being punctual and maintaining consistent attendance.
• Good communication and teamwork skills with professional demeanor toward staff, clients, and volunteers.
• Ability to establish supportive, professional relationships with food service trainees.
• Ability to work with limited direction planning and organizing work assignments.
• Operates autonomously, managing and overseeing the day-to-day functions of the kitchen with minimal supervision.
• Ability to maintain composure in stressful situations.
• Must have the ability to maintain proper food safety requirements and standards.
• Requires the ability to utilize computer systems and software necessary to perform position functions. Basic Windows PC, web browsing (i.e., Chrome, Internet Explorer, etc.), online training, and Microsoft Outlook skills required. Other Microsoft Office application knowledge, such as Word and Excel desired.

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Moving about accomplishing tasks or moving from one work site to another.
• Adjusting or moving objects up to 50# in all directions.
• Communicating with others to exchange information.
•  Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
• Assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned.
• Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
• Operating machinery and/or power tools.
• Occasional exposure to high and low temperatures.
• Hearing and vision abilities within normal range (corrected) to drive safely and to observe and communicate with others.
• Must have reliable means of transportation and be available for work, regardless of weather conditions.

We offer a wide range of benefits to meet the ever-changing needs of our employees including but not limited to:

• Health/Dental/Vision
• Vacation/sick/holiday pay
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with a discretionary employer contribution 
• Tuition Advancement
• Paid Parental Leave

Join Catholic Charities of Baltimore where you will be an important member of a trauma-informed care organization that promotes a culture of safety, empowerment, healing, and self-care, and that believes that every person has infinite worth and promise.

Catholic Charities is an equal opportunity employer

Salary : $17 - $23