Relief Cook

Christie Ossington Neighbourhood Centre; Toronto; On-site; CAD 39,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Christie Ossington Neighbourhood Centre (CONC) in Toronto is seeking a dedicated Kitchen Assistant to prepare and serve nutritious meals for up to 100 residents and program participants.

You will maintain food safety, check temperatures, rotate stock, receive and label food, and keep kitchen areas clean. You will also support volunteers, operate dishwashing equipment, and participate in team meetings and training to uphold program operations.

Qualifications

• Experience preparing meals in a professional kitchen or food service.
• Ability to cook for large groups and accommodate dietary needs.
• Commitment to dignity, inclusion, and respect for diverse populations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve nutritious meals for up to 100 residents and program participants
• Maintain food safety by checking temperatures, rotating stock, and following dietary requirements
• Receive, label, store, and track food, cleaning, and supply inventory
• Ensure cleanliness of kitchen equipment, dishes, and work surfaces
• Dispose of waste and recycling in accordance with safety standards
• Clean floors, bins, carts, storage areas, and other kitchen-related spaces
• Operate dishwashing equipment or wash dishes manually as needed
• Support nightly snack preparation and distribution when required

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Flexibility

Food safety

Culinary basics

Education

Culinary training

Food Handler Certificate

Job description

Salary Range: $28.00 To $28.98 Hourly

Christie Ossington Neighbourhood Centre (CONC) is a multi-service community organization supporting individuals and families through shelter, housing, food security, and community-based programs across Toronto.

Our work is rooted in dignity, respect, and a commitment to meeting people where they are. We strive to create a workplace where staff feel supported, valued, and able to contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and serve nutritious meals for up to 100 residents and program participants
• Maintain food safety by checking food temperatures, rotating stock, and following dietary requirements
• Receive, label, store, and track food, cleaning, and supply inventory
• Ensure cleanliness of kitchen equipment, dishes, and work surfaces following health and safety guidelines
• Dispose of waste and recycling in accordance with safety standards
• Clean floors, bins, carts, storage areas, and other kitchen-related spaces
• Operate dishwashing equipment or wash dishes manually as needed
• Support nightly snack preparation and distribution when required
• Collaborate with team members, volunteers, and placement students in kitchen operations
• Attend team meetings and training sessions
• Report maintenance issues or safety concerns to supervisors
• Participate in agency initiatives and promote cross-program collaboration
• Other duties as assigned to support program operations

Qualifications and Experience:

• Experience preparing meals in a professional kitchen or food service environment
• Comfortable cooking for large groups (up to 100), including special dietary needs
• Experience working with vulnerable community members and/or donated food is an asset
• Valid Food Handler’s Certificate (Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care approved)
• Knowledge of WHMIS, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and relevant food safety regulations
• Able to lift and move supplies or equipment safely
• Skilled in maintaining a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment
• Commitment to dignity, inclusion, and respect when serving diverse populations
• Strong teamwork and communication skills; ability to work with volunteers and colleagues collaboratively
• Culinary training or equivalent experience in food preparation and kitchen operations
• Willingness to work flexible hours as required

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to outline the general responsibilities and qualifications for this role. It may be reviewed and updated as needed to reflect organizational priorities.

Additional Information

This posting is intended to fill a current vacancy.

CONC may use technology to support elements of the recruitment process.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Equity and Accommodation

CONC is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in our workplace. We encourage applications from individuals who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, including those from equity-deserving groups.

Accommodation is available upon request throughout the recruitment process.