Lead Cook - Community Kitchen Team Leader

Maryland Food Bank, Inc.; Baltimore (MD); Hybrid; USD 33,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

The Maryland Food Bank (MFB) is seeking a Lead Cook to head the culinary team responsible for preparing healthy meals for FoodWorks programs. You will supervise Cooks, the Kitchen Porter, and volunteers, and ensure adherence to recipes, schedules, and quality standards.

Responsibilities include HACCP and food-safety compliance, temperature control, and accurate record-keeping, with shifts rotating 6am–5pm. Strong kitchen leadership and ServSafe certification are preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills required.
• Minimum 3 years in a commercial kitchen.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen equipment.
• Ability to follow recipes and maintain portions.
• Ability to organize production in a fast-paced kitchen.
• ServSafe Manager Certification at hire or within 90 days.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team and supervise Cooks, Kitchen Porter, and volunteers.
• Prepare entrées and menu items per recipes and schedules.
• Ensure HACCP and food-safety compliance.
• Monitor temperatures, labeling, dating, and safe handling of foods.
• Maintain equipment, storage areas, and FIFO inventory.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Commercial kitchen experience

Recipe following

Organization

Team leadership

Kitchen supervision

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Accredited culinary program (preferred)

Tools

ServSafe Certification

Job description

The Maryland Food Bank (MFB) is seeking a Lead Cook to head the culinary team responsible for preparing healthy meals for FoodWorks programs. You will supervise Cooks, the Kitchen Porter, and volunteers, and ensure adherence to recipes, schedules, and quality standards.

Responsibilities include HACCP and food-safety compliance, temperature control, and accurate record-keeping, with shifts rotating 6am–5pm. Strong kitchen leadership and ServSafe certification are preferred.