Corrections Dining Services Associate

County of Santa Clara; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The County of Santa Clara’s Department of Correction Food Service Unit seeks a capable team member to perform a full range of food service duties under supervision, interfacing effectively with inmates and other Food Service staff during food preparation, service and related tasks.

Candidates meeting employment standards will be invited to an online examination window opening October 14, 2026. The role emphasizes safety, accuracy in meal preparation, and reliable operation of kitchen equipment.

Qualifications

• One year of food service experience
• Possession of a current nationally recognized food handler certification can substitute for 6 months of experience
• May require a valid California Driver's License prior to appointment and County driver authorization
• Ability to communicate effectively in English (oral and written)
• Basic arithmetic including fractions
• Be organized and able to work independently

Responsibilities

• Prepares, packages, and portions meals; delivers, distributes, serves, and stores food on an assigned shift or areas
• Prepares menu items for inmates and staff meals, special diets, and catering
• Performs routine cleaning of preparation and service areas, ware, equipment, floors, and sanitation tasks
• Manages storage, distribution and inventory of food items and meal carts
• May drive a truck to deliver food and supplies to outlying buildings or facilities
• Provide excellent customer service; maintain safety and security as required by policy
• May be assigned as a Disaster Service Worker
• Performs other related duties as required

Skills

Customer service

Communication skills

Safety awareness

Food handling knowledge

Kitchen equipment operation

Organization

Job description

The County of Santa Clara’s Department of Correction Food Service Unit seeks a capable team member to perform a full range of food service duties under supervision, interfacing effectively with inmates and other Food Service staff during food preparation, service and related tasks.

Candidates meeting employment standards will be invited to an online examination window opening October 14, 2026. The role emphasizes safety, accuracy in meal preparation, and reliable operation of kitchen equipment.