Cook Assistant, Substitute - Somerset, NJ

HOPES Community Action Partnershiporporated; Franklin Township (NJ); On-site; USD 22,000 - 23,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee wellness resources

$2000 sign-on incentive paid in four 1

Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Job summary

HOPES CAP, Inc. is seeking a Substitute Cook Assistant in Somerset, NJ to support meal preparation for children in our Early Childhood Program. This on-call per diem role ensures nutritious meals and kitchen cleanliness, following CACFP and USDA guidelines.

Responsibilities include meal prep, safety compliance, inventory, and collaboration with the Cook and team. Qualifications include a high school diploma, food handlers certification (or within 90 days), and basic computer skills.

Qualifications

• Food safety knowledge and good sanitation practices are required.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen and prepare meals.
• Basic computer skills for communications and scheduling.

Responsibilities

• Assist with meal prep, setup, and cleanup for meals and snacks.
• Ensure food safety and sanitation compliance.
• Receive and inspect food deliveries for quality.
• Maintain kitchen inventory and supplies.
• Support nutrition activities for children and families.
• Participate in team meetings and training.

Skills

Food safety knowledge

Teamwork

Organizational skills

Basic computer skills

Ability to prepare large quantities

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Job DetailsLevel: EntryJob Location: Somerset, NJ - Somerset, NJ 08873Position Type: Per DiemEducation Level: High SchoolSalary Range: $15.92 - $16.28 HourlyTravel Percentage: Not ApplicableJob Category: Nutrition

Are you Passionate About Food and Nutrition?

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

As a Substitute Cook Assistant, you’ll support the Cook in preparing and serving meals that meet USDA and Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines. This on-call as needed (per diem)position ensures children receive nutritious meals while maintaining food safety and cleanliness in the kitchen.

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 be able to 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:

• Employee wellness resources
• $2000 sign-on incentive paid in four quarterly installments after completing a 90-day introductory period
• Qualifying Employer for Student Loan Forgiveness Program
• Access to opportunities for professional growth and development
• Collaborative and innovative company culture

Note: Per diem positions are ineligible for company sponsored health insurance coverage or other company offered benefits.

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.