Cook

Maryland Food Bank; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Maryland Food Bank is seeking a FoodWorks Temporary Cook to prepare meals, handle food safely, and support kitchen operations in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities include following recipes, sanitizing equipment, and assisting with inventory and logistics to ensure timely meal distribution. The role requires a High School Diploma or GED, SERV Safe certification, and ability to pass background checks and drug screening.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• SERV Safe Food Handler’s Certification is required or willingness to obtain one.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to safety and ethical work practices.
• Pre-employment drug screen and background check required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare entrees and menu items according to recipes and safety standards.
• Operate, clean, and maintain kitchen equipment and work areas.
• Store, label, and date food items with organized storage.
• Assist with inventory management and reduce waste.
• Support FoodWorks Logistics with sorting and loading meal components.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Safety mindset

Independence

Listening

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

The Maryland Food Bank (MFB) is a nonprofit, anti-hunger organization whose mission is to feed people, strengthen communities, and end hunger for more Marylanders. MFB does this work by expanding access to nutritious food while also seeking to eliminate the root causes of hunger.

MFB’s distributes food through a statewide network of community-based organizations from Maryland’s western mountains to its Eastern Shore. Last year, the Maryland Food Bank distributed enough food to provide the equivalent of more than 41 million meals, or about 114,000 meals every day. This healthy food supports children, seniors, veterans, and hard-working families.

MFB works to end hunger for more Marylanders by offering job training programs, access to supportive services and benefits, and by advocating to change to the laws, policies, and practices that create food insecurity for more than 1 in 3 Marylanders.

The Maryland Food Bank embraces a philosophy which recognizes and values diversity. Our goal is to attract, develop, retain, and promote a talented diverse workforce in a culture where all employees will contribute to their fullest potential.

About the position

The FoodWorks Temporary Cook is responsible for preparing meals within the FoodWorks program, ensuring safe and efficient handling of food from delivery to distribution. This role supports kitchen operations through proper food preparation, sanitation, and equipment use while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and respect for those we serve.

Primary Responsibilities

• Prepare entrees and menu items according to established recipes and food safety standards.
• Operate, clean, and maintain kitchen equipment and work areas to ensure a safe, sanitary environment.
• Properly store, label, and date food items; maintain organized storage of dry, refrigerated, and frozen goods.
• Assist with inventory management, including tracking supplies and minimizing waste.
• Support the FoodWorks Logistics team with sorting and loading meal components for delivery.
• Follow HACCP guidelines and comply with all federal, state, and local health and sanitation regulations.
• Report maintenance needs, faulty equipment, or safety concerns promptly.
• Participate in daily huddles and maintain positive working relationships with team members.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• SERV Safe Food Handler’s Certification (required or willingness to obtain one).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and ethical work practices.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen (including marijuana) and background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a commercial kitchen or food production environment.
• Strong communication and listening skills with the ability to follow directions effectively.
• Proven reliability and professionalism in a fast-paced setting.

Work environment

Work is performed in a commercial kitchen and warehouse setting with varying temperatures and noise levels. The role requires standing for most of the workday, frequent bending and lifting, and the ability to move objects up to 75 lbs (occasionally up to 100 lbs). Employees may work in refrigerated areas (as low as -5°F) and around moving equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks. A strong commitment to safety and proper work practices is essential. Current shifts rotate monthly between 6am - 2:30pm and 7:30am - 4pm. As a result, this position requires the ability to work between the hours of 6am - 5pm

Pay range

• $20.00 per hour

Nothing matters more to the Maryland Food Bank than our strong ethical and safety commitments. As such, all positions require a background check and drug screen.

To learn more about the Maryland Food Bank, visit www.mdfoodbank.org.