Chef

Job Title: Head Chef

Department: St. Elizabeth House

Reports to: Director of Client Services

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Schedule: Hours/Location Monday -Friday 9:00 AM -5:00 PM

Location: 118 Main Street, Hartford, CT

Position Summary – Responsible for managing kitchen operation, overseeing assistant cook, ensuring food quality, developing menu, and maintaining kitchen standards. This position is classified as ESSENTIAL; therefore, the employee must report for work when scheduled, regardless of weather or other conditions that affect travel, and remain on duty until relieved by the supervisor or person scheduled for the next shift.

Essential Job Functions

Kitchen Management:

• Oversee the daily operations of the kitchen, ensuring smooth and efficient workflow.
• Develop and create new menu items that align with healthy and nutritious options.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene.
• Provide training and mentorship to junior staff, ensuring their skills and knowledge are developed.

Food Preparation & Cooking:

• Set up steam table and serve in the dining room.
• Oversee and participate in food preparation and cooking for both the Friendship Center and for the Program Residents. Serve the residents in the food line.
• Ensure that food is prepared in a timely manner and meets the quality standards.
• Monitor food inventory and ensure that adequate supplies are on hand.
• Operate all electric, gas and other kitchen equipment properly.

Health & Safety:

• Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards at all times.
• Regularly inspect kitchen equipment and ensure it is well-maintained and functioning. Maintain equipment in proper sanitary condition.
• Implement and follow proper health and safety regulations in the kitchen.

Budget & Inventory Control:

• Monitor food and supply costs and work to minimize waste.
• Order ingredients and supplies as needed, staying within the allocated budget.
• Maintain accurate inventory records and ensure proper storage of ingredients.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with supervisors to ensure smooth operation in the kitchen.
• Collaborate with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients.

Resident/Client Experience:

• Ensure that all dishes are prepared and presented according to the agency’s standards.
• Assure that all dietary requirements of residents/clients are met.
• Have meals available for residents who are unable to participate in regular mealtimes.
• Handle customer complaints or concerns related to food quality or preparation.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or in a similar leadership role in a kitchen. High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certification and at least three years’ relevant work experience

• Extensive knowledge of culinary techniques, kitchen equipment, and food safety regulations.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Creativity and a passion for food and cooking.
• Ability to utilize Microsoft Software including Outlook and Word.

Education & Experience

High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certification and at least one-year relevant work experience, preferable with homeless persons, persons with mental illness and/or substance abuse.

Certificates and Licenses

• Must have ServSafe Certification. A valid Connecticut driver's license and clean driving record with proof of automobile insurance is preferred.
• Must have a valid Connecticut driver’s license and a clean driving record with proof of automobile insurance. Must have a vehicle in good working condition.

Compensation & Benefits

• $24-$26 per hour, based on experience
• Community Housing Advocates provides a generous employee benefits package, including medical, dental, retirement, short- and long-term disability, and tuition reimbursement. Full-time employees receive 10 days of PTO (paid time off) per year, plus 11 paid holidays and one (1) Floating Holiday and 40 Hours of Accrued Paid Sick Leave.

Physical Demands

Must be able to stand for long periods of time. Occasionally the employee must lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The employee must demonstrate the ability to assist physically disabled residents in emergency evacuations and fire drills.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.