Cook Assistant - Plainfield, NJ

Hopes Inc; Plainfield (NJ); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in nutrition is seeking a dedicated Cook Assistant to join their team. In this role, you will play a crucial part in preparing healthy meals for children, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations, and maintaining a clean kitchen environment. You will assist in meal planning and inventory management while engaging with children and families in nutrition activities. This position offers a supportive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional growth. If you are passionate about food and nutrition, this is the perfect opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Benefits

Comprehensive health benefits

$2000 sign-on incentive

403(b) retirement plan

Life insurance

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Flexible Spending Account

Commuter Benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; Food Handlers Certification needed within 90 days.
• Basic computer skills for communication and inventory management.

Responsibilities

• Assist in meal preparation and ensure food safety compliance.
• Maintain kitchen inventory and support nutrition activities.

Skills

Food Safety Knowledge

Teamwork

Organizational Skills

Basic Computer Skills

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

Food Handlers Certification

Job description

Job Details

Level: Entry

Job Location: Plainfield, NJ

Position Type: Full Time

Education Level: High School

Salary Range: $15.50 - $16.28 Hourly

Travel Percentage: Not Applicable

Job Category: Nutrition

About The Role

Are you Passionate About Food and Nutrition?

Join HOPES CAP, Inc. as a Cook Assistant and help provide healthy meals for children in our Early Childhood Program!

As a Cook Assistant, you’ll support the Cook in preparing and serving meals that meet USDA and Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines. You’ll help ensure a clean and safe kitchen while assisting with meal planning, inventory management, and food preparation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with meal preparation, setup, and cleanup for breakfast, lunch, and snacks
• Ensure food safety and sanitation compliance
• Receive and inspect food deliveries for accuracy and quality
• Maintain kitchen inventory and supplies
• Support nutrition activities that engage children and families
• Participate in team meetings, training, and professional development

Qualifications:

• High school diploma
• Food Handlers Certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire)
• Basic computer skills to allow access to email and maintain communication within the agency
• Knowledge of food safety and nutrition regulations
• Ability to prepare large quantities of food in a fast-paced setting
• Strong teamwork and organizational skills

What We Offer

At HOPES CAP, Inc., we value our team and provide a benefits package designed to support your success and well-being:

• Comprehensive health benefits package (Medical, Dental & Vision) and employee wellness
• $2000 sign-on incentive paid in four quarterly installments after completing a 90-day introductory period
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match of 50% of employee per pay period contribution up to 6% of the employee's salary in a benefit year
• Life insurance 100% paid by HOPES
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Company Paid Holidays
• Flexible Spending Account
• Commuter Benefits
• Qualifying Employer for Student Loan Forgiveness Program
• Access to opportunities for professional growth and development
• Collaborative and innovative company culture

For a full list of benefits available: www.hopes.org/employeebenefits

Make a difference through nutritious meals and apply today!

Please Note: Successful completion of a post-offer, pre-employment physical examination, TB screen, and background screen inclusive of CHRI and CARI check is required.

Offers may not be limited by the salary ranges listed. Highly qualified candidates may be offered a higher wage, whenever budgetary and operational factors permit with required approvals.

HOPES CAP, Inc. is an at-will employer.

HOPES CAP, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. HOPES CAP, Inc. considers qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, citizenship, or any other legally protected class.