Cook | River Valley | Grand Rapids, MI | 1st Shift Full Time (32 Hours)

Hope Network; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 31,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

High School Diploma or equivalent

Large-quantity cooking

Taste and smell for quality control

Clear written and verbal communication

Independent and self-directed work

Flexible schedule 7:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Job summary

Hope Network is seeking a Cook to prepare nutritious meals and maintain a clean kitchen for individuals served by Hope Network. You will follow dietary guidelines, assist with meal planning, and ensure safe food handling in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires 1–2 years of related cooking experience, Safe Serve certification, and the ability to lift 50 lbs. Background checks and CPR/First Aid certification are required.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of dietary, food service, healthcare, senior living, or institutional cooking experience
• Safe Serve Certification
• Experience preparing meals in large quantities
• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Pass background checks and fingerprints
• CPR/First Aid certification required

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve meals according to menus, recipes, and dietary requirements
• Ensure food is prepared, stored, and served according to food safety and sanitation regulations
• Prepare meals for individuals with special dietary needs and restrictions
• Monitor food inventory and assist with meal planning and food ordering
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen, dining, storage, and food preparation areas
• Monitor food and refrigerator temperatures and report concerns as needed
• Assist with special events, holiday meals, and other food-related activities
• Participate in inspections, team meetings, and required trainings
• Complete documentation, logs, and inventory records as required
• Collaborate with team members to provide excellent service and dining experiences

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Written and verbal communication

Tools

CPR/First Aid certification

Job description

Make a real impact—help someone build independence while building a career, you’re proud of.

The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment. This role follows established food safety, sanitation, and dietary guidelines to ensure high-quality food service for individuals served by Hope Network while supporting their health, wellness, and dining experience.

What You’ll Do

• Prepare and serve meals according to menus, recipes, and dietary requirements
• Ensure food is prepared, stored, and served in accordance with food safety and sanitation regulations
• Prepare meals for individuals with special dietary needs and restrictions
• Monitor food inventory and assist with meal planning and food ordering
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen, dining, storage, and food preparation areas
• Monitor food and refrigerator temperatures and report concerns as needed
• Assist with special events, holiday meals, and other food-related activities
• Participate in inspections, team meetings, and required trainings
• Complete documentation, logs, and inventory records as required
• Collaborate with team members to provide excellent service and dining experiences

What We’re Looking For

• Dependable, organized, and self-motivated
• Strong attention to detail and food safety practices
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work independently and manage priorities
• Commitment to providing quality service and a positive dining experience
• Good judgment and problem-solving abilities

Preferred

What You Bring

• 1-2 years of dietary, food service, healthcare, senior living, or institutional cooking experience
• Safe Serve Certification
• Experience preparing meals in large quantities

Required

• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Ability to pass background checks and fingerprints
• Ability to obtain CPR/First Aid certification

Top Benefits

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Ability to prepare a variety of foods in large quantities
• Ability to taste and smell food to assess quality and safety
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and be self-directed
• Ability to work a flexible schedule between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., including weekends and holidays as needed

Why Hope Network

Not your average job. Not your average impact.

At Hope Network, you’re not just filling a role—you’re showing up for someone who needs consistency, encouragement, and support. Every day looks different, but one thing stays the same: what you do matters.

Our teams are built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to those we serve. We believe no human is more valuable than the next—and the work you do here truly matters.