Cook

Rescue Mission of Trenton; Trenton (NJ); On-site; USD 21,036 - 29,961; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

100% Company-Paid Life Insurance

401(k) with Company Contribution

Paid Time Off available immediately

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Rescue Mission of Trenton is seeking a dedicated Cook to join their team. In this full-time role, you will prepare meals that provide comfort and support to individuals in need. The ideal candidate will have at least one year of kitchen experience and a passion for creating quality food while adhering to safety standards.

Benefits include medical, dental, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan. Join us in making a meaningful difference in our community while enjoying a flexible schedule and competitive pay.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of cook or related kitchen experience.
• Experience in high-volume or production kitchens is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook menu items according to recipes.
• Maintain proper sanitation and food safety standards.
• Communicate effectively with kitchen staff.

Skills

Basic knife skills

Cooking knowledge

Strong work ethic

Team-oriented mindset

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

ServSafe Food Handler Certification

Job description

Bring Your Skills to a Kitchen That Feeds Hope

Not every kitchen job gives you the chance to make a real impact. At Rescue Mission of Trenton, the meals you prepare do more than nourish people — they provide comfort, dignity, and stability to individuals working toward a better future. We’re looking for a reliable, hardworking Cook who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and takes pride in delivering quality food with consistency and care. If you’re ready to join a team where your work truly matters, we want to hear from you.

Why This Role Stands Out

This isn’t just another back‑of‑house position. You’ll be part of a mission‑driven team serving individuals in shelter and recovery programs while working in a structured, professional kitchen environment. Every shift is meaningful, every meal matters, and every team member plays an important role.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance – low employee healthcare costs
• 100% Company‑Paid Life Insurance
• 401(k) with 2% company contribution and match up to 4%
• Paid Time Off available immediately – no waiting period
• Professional development and advancement opportunities
• Access to a third‑party employee discount platform through our payroll provider, offering savings on shopping, travel, entertainment, and more

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Kitchen Manager, the Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, and plating meals according to established recipes, quality standards, and food safety procedures. This is a hands‑on cooking role focused on execution, timing, and teamwork. We’re seeking someone who can confidently manage assigned tasks, stay organized under pressure, and help deliver efficient meal service every day.

What You’ll Be Doing

Daily Kitchen Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook menu items according to recipes and production standards
• Set up and stock your station before service
• Maintain speed, consistency, and quality during meal service
• Ensure proper portioning and presentation
• Assist with food prep, cooking tasks, and production support

Maintaining Kitchen Standards

• Keep workstations clean, organized, and service‑ready
• Follow all sanitation and food safety guidelines
• Store and label food properly to maintain freshness and reduce waste
• Monitor temperatures and safe food handling procedures
• Help receive and organize deliveries when needed

Team Collaboration

• Communicate clearly with kitchen staff and volunteers
• Support teammates during busy service periods
• Adapt quickly in a fast‑paced environment
• Contribute to a positive, respectful workplace culture

What We’re Looking For

Preferred Experience

• At least 1 year of cook or related kitchen experience
• Experience in high‑volume, cafeteria, institutional, or production kitchens is a plus

Skills & Qualities

• Dependable and punctual
• Strong work ethic and positive attitude
• Ability to multitask and stay organized under pressure
• Basic knife skills and cooking knowledge
• Team‑oriented mindset
• Willingness to learn and grow professionally

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent
• ServSafe Food Handler Certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Valid driver’s license preferred, but not required

Schedule & Pay

Full‑Time Position – Flexible scheduling available.

Compensation: $18.51/hour starting pay (includes $1.00/hour incentive). Quarterly incentive included in hourly equivalent based on hours worked. That means more earning potential simply for showing up and contributing consistently.

A Job With Purpose

At Rescue Mission of Trenton, your work directly supports individuals experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, and life challenges. The meals prepared in our kitchen are part of something larger: helping people rebuild stability, independence, and hope.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Rescue Mission of Trenton is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, military or veteran status, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, breastfeeding status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.