Cook

Transitions; Erlanger (KY); On-site; USD 28,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Transitions, Inc. is seeking a Cook to prepare and serve nutritious meals for clients in a SUD treatment setting, in a safe, sanitary kitchen.

The role supports recovery by providing structure and wellness through food service operations, while ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal food safety regulations. The Cook will follow approved menus, manage portions, maintain kitchen cleanliness, and collaborate with staff to support a recovery‑oriented environment.

Qualifications

• Basic culinary and food preparation skills.
• Knowledge of safe food handling and sanitation practices preferred.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.
• Prior experience in food service, healthcare, or residential settings preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve meals in accordance with approved menus.
• Ensure proper portion control and meal distribution.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen, pantry, and dining areas.
• Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment.
• Ensure proper food storage, labeling, and rotation.
• Attend trainings and maintain required food safety certifications.
• Provide instruction to staff and residents on kitchen procedures and sanitation.

Skills

Culinary basics

Food safety knowledge

Time management

Communication skills

Independent & team work

Professional boundaries

Healthcare/food service exp

Job description

The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, well-balanced meals in a safe and sanitary environment for clients in a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment setting. This position plays a vital role in supporting client recovery by promoting structure, consistency, and wellness through food service operations. The Cook ensures compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal food safety regulations, as well as agency policies and procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Basic culinary and food preparation skills required
• Knowledge of safe food handling and sanitation practices preferred
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries in a behavioral health setting
• Prior experience in food service, healthcare, or residential settings preferred

AGENCY REQUIREMENTS

All employees of Transitions, Inc. are expected to:

• Arrive on time and be prepared for all scheduled shifts
• Notify their supervisor as soon as possible if unable to work a scheduled shift
• Maintain professionalism and appropriate boundaries with clients and staff
• Comply with all agency policies and procedures, including but not limited to:
  • Code of Ethics
  • Non-Fraternization Policy
  • Infection Control Policy
  • Fire Safety Policy
  • Drug-Free Workplace Policy
  • Dress Code
• Support the mission, vision, and values of the organization
• Complete all required trainings and certifications

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Remain alert, attentive, and engaged throughout the shift
• Prepare and serve meals in accordance with approved menus and dietary guidelines
• Maintain compliance with all sanitation and food safety standards (local, state, and federal)
• Monitor kitchen and dining areas to ensure a safe, structured environment
• Communicate effectively with staff, vendors, and other stakeholders
• Observe client behavior and report any concerns, including signs of relapse or safety risks, to appropriate staff
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries with clients at all times

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Food Preparation & Service

• Prepare and serve meals (lunches, dinners, weekends, and holidays) as scheduled
• Ensure proper portion control and meal distribution based on program needs
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen, pantry, and dining areas
• Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment as needed
• Ensure proper food storage, labeling, and rotation in compliance with food safety standards

Inventory & Supplies

• Monitor and maintain inventory of food and kitchen supplies
• Assist with ordering and stocking supplies as needed
• Prepare and organize supplies for weekend and holiday meals

Training & Compliance

• Attend all required staff meetings, trainings, and in-services, including food safety certification
• Provide instruction to staff and residents on proper kitchen procedures and sanitation standards as appropriate

Safety & Monitoring

• Maintain awareness of all activity within the kitchen and dining areas
• Report any unusual incidents, safety concerns, or maintenance issues promptly
• Support a safe, recovery-oriented environment for all clients

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

• Perform other duties as assigned to support the food service program and overall agency operations

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

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

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and perform repetitive motions
• Ability to work in a kitchen environment with exposure to heat, cold, and cleaning chemicals

Transitions, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.