Cook III

Texas.gov - State of Texas Official Website; Terrell (TX); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team at a state-of-the-art facility where your culinary skills will directly impact the quality of life for patients. As a Cook III, you will prepare and serve nutritious meals while ensuring safety and sanitation standards are met. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with a supportive team committed to compassionate care. With a focus on teamwork and professional growth, you will play a vital role in enhancing the dining experience for those in need. If you are passionate about food service and making a difference, we invite you to apply and be part of this rewarding journey.

Benefits

100% Paid Employee Health Insurance

Defined Benefit Pension Plan

Generous Time Off Benefits

Career Advancement Opportunities

Qualifications

• Knowledge of food preparation, storage, and sanitation standards.
• Ability to follow instructions and work in various conditions.

Responsibilities

• Prepares, seasons, cooks, and assembles food following guidelines.
• Guides and trains staff in food prep and sanitation.
• Operates and maintains food service equipment safely.

Skills

Food Preparation

Cooking

Sanitation Standards

Effective Communication

Training Others

Education

Food Safety Certification

Tools

Food Service Equipment

Job description

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement, and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

Job Details

• Functional Title: Cook III
• Job Title: Cook III
• Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
• Department: Food Svs Opers
• Posting Number: 4984
• Closing Date: 07/23/2025
• Posting Audience: Internal and External
• Occupational Category: Food Preparation and Serving Related
• Salary Group: TEXAS-A-11
• Salary Range: $2,904.91-$3,946.25
• Shift: Day
• Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
• Travel: Up to 10%
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Full Time/Part Time: Full time
• FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
• Facility Location: Terrell State Hospital
• Job Location City: TERRELL
• Job Location Address: 1200 E BRIN

Brief Job Description

Would you thrive in an environment where you learn and grow personally and professionally while helping make a positive impact on people's lives? Do you appreciate being around dependable, trustworthy, hardworking individuals who believe in teamwork? HHSC is dedicated to creating an environment where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. Our facilities are accredited and provide state-of-the-art, recovery-oriented, and science-based treatment. If providing hope and healing through compassionate, innovative, and individualized care interests you, we welcome your application.

The Cook III performs complex technical food service tasks, including preparing, cooking, portioning, distributing, and serving food for regular and modified diets. This role provides guidance and oversight to staff and is vital to patient quality of life and safety. Establishing this position as a benchmark aims to improve consistency, classification, and staffing in our kitchens, aiding in filling vacancies and enhancing training.

Essential Job Functions

• Attends work regularly, may work specific or rotating shifts, extended hours, and overtime as needed.
• Prepares, seasons, cooks, and assembles food following proper procedures and guidelines to ensure safety and sanitation.
• Operates and maintains food service equipment safely, providing training to others.
• Calculates and prepares appropriate food quantities using standardized recipes.
• Distributes food safely and maintains sanitation standards.
• Guides and trains staff in food prep, service, equipment use, and sanitation.
• Completes records and reports, reports equipment needs, and suggests operational improvements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of food preparation, storage, and sanitation standards.
• Skills in cooking, baking, and operating food equipment.
• Ability to interpret recipes, serve food, and maintain records.
• Ability to follow instructions, lift at least 25 pounds, and work in various conditions.
• Effective communication skills and ability to train others.

Requirements and Additional Information

• Valid Texas driver license or ability to obtain within 90 days.
• Food Safety certification preferred or required within six months.
• Must pass background checks, drug screening, and other pre-employment requirements.
• Minimum age 18; 21 for Waco Center for Youth.
• Immunization compliance required.
• Military veterans encouraged to apply.
• Reasonable accommodations available for applicants with disabilities.
• Position may be eligible for telework subject to policies.