Lead Cook & Community Kitchen Leader

The Salvation Army North & Central Illinois Division; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 24,796 - 33,062; Full time

Job summary

The Salvation Army Family Haven Shelter in St. Louis, Missouri, is seeking a Lead Cook to oversee the efficient operation of the kitchen and dining area, including weekly menu planning and coordination with the supervisor. This is a full‑time role in a community kitchen setting.

The Lead Cook will prepare and serve meals, maintain safety and cleanliness, manage inventories and logs, and handle procurement and reporting responsibilities. Starting pay is $21.00 per hour for 40 hours weekly.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with one year cooking experience for large groups (30-50) and one year of supervisory experience.

Responsibilities

• Prepare weekly menus and submit in advance to the supervisor, along with a shopping list for food/supplies not provided by donations. Establish and maintain a food inventory system. Order food from The Food Bank and other vendors as assigned.
• Prepare and serve meals in dining area and ensure tables and floors are sanitary before and after meals.
• Keep kitchen refrigerators and walk‑in cooler and all drawers and cabinets sanitary and organized.
• Maintain daily temperature log of food and label items with date for proper rotation.
• Prepare and file necessary internal and external reports.
• Perform duties of cook as necessary and operate kitchen equipment; lift and carry supplies.
• Attend meetings, in‑service training, fundraising and special events/meals.
• Attend USDA training seminars and other professional training as required.
• Report any damage or theft of kitchen items to supervisor.
• Maintain client confidentiality and Safe From Harm guidelines.
• Foster positive work environment and professional communication with clients, staff, and volunteers.
• Drive to various businesses to pick up supplies or food items with TSA transportation.

Job description

The Salvation Army Family Haven Shelter in St. Louis, Missouri, is seeking a Lead Cook to oversee the efficient operation of the kitchen and dining area, including weekly menu planning and coordination with the supervisor. This is a full‑time role in a community kitchen setting.

The Lead Cook will prepare and serve meals, maintain safety and cleanliness, manage inventories and logs, and handle procurement and reporting responsibilities. Starting pay is $21.00 per hour for 40 hours weekly.