Cook/Kitchen Associate - Substance Abuse Treatment Center

Zinnia Health; Lake Arrowhead (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Pay

Career Development

Benefits & 401k

Values: Integrity, Teamplay

Job summary

Zinnia Health is seeking a dependable Kitchen Associate/Cook to support our residential substance abuse treatment program. You will prepare and serve meals, maintain a clean and safe kitchen, and ensure all food service activities follow health and sanitation guidelines in a healthcare setting.

This role requires attention to detail, the ability to work independently, and strong communication with colleagues.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma preferred.
• Culinary arts training or food preparation education is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve food according to cooking standards and safety regulations.
• Monitor temperatures and proper storage of cold and hot foods.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen.
• Inspect and clean kitchen equipment and report maintenance needs.
• Assist with temperature logs for refrigerators/freezers.
• Maintain client allergy listings.
• Prepare, handle, and portion ingredients for menu items.
• Plate food items according to portion guidelines.
• Wash dishes and kitchen equipment per sanitation standards.
• Label and date food items and ensure proper storage/disposal of expired items.
• Assist with grocery shopping, inventory, and food ordering.
• Support a safe kitchen work environment.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Organized

Communicates effectively

Independent worker

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Zinnia Health is a fast-growing integrated healthcare company. We value our employees and care for our clients. Do you have unique talents that you would like to share with others? We would love to have you join our team!

• Competitive Pay
• Career Development
• Competitive Benefits & 401k
• Values: Integrity, Teamplay, 1% Better Each Day

We are seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Kitchen Associate/Cook to support our residential substance abuse treatment program. In this role, you will help prepare and serve meals, maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment, and ensure all food service activities follow health, safety, and sanitation guidelines. This position plays an important part in supporting a therapeutic and supportive environment for our clients.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve food according to established cooking standards and safety regulations.
• Monitor food temperatures and ensure proper storage of cold and hot foods.
• Maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, and kitchen organization.
• Inspect and clean kitchen equipment; report or assist with maintenance needs.
• Assist with temperature logs for refrigerators and freezers.
• Maintain and update client allergy listings.
• Prepare, handle, and portion ingredients for menu items.
• Plate food items according to portion guidelines.
• Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment following sanitation standards.
• Label and date all food items; ensure proper storage and disposal of expired food.
• Assist with grocery shopping, inventory, and food ordering as needed.
• Support a safe and healthy kitchen work environment.
• Work collaboratively with the Kitchen Manager, Cook, and other team members.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma preferred.
• Training or education in culinary arts or food preparation is a plus.

Certificates/Licenses

• Food Handler or Food Safety Certificate (required where mandated).
• CPR/First Aid/BLS (required or obtained upon hire).

Experience

• 1+ year of experience in kitchen operations (prep cook, line cook, fry cook, expediter, etc.) preferred.
• Experience in a licensed healthcare or residential facility (Joint Commission, CARF, etc.) is a plus.
• Able to work independently.
• Communicates effectively (both written and verbal) with clients and colleagues.
• Organized, detail-oriented, multi-tasker, adaptable, and positive attitude.
• Proven experience as a cook in a similar setting, preferably in a healthcare or substance abuse treatment facility.
• Background check and drug screening are required during pre-employment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, kneel, bend, and use hands for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently lift/move up to 35 pounds, and occasionally up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to move throughout the facility as required.