Senior Cook (NBOE)

Newark Public Schools; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 25,037 - 35,659; Full time

Job summary

Newark Board of Education in Newark, New Jersey, seeks a Senior Cook to oversee cooking and serving in large-scale facilities across multiple locations. The role requires independent work and leadership of kitchen staff, with responsibilities including menu planning and procurement.

The position is governed by New Jersey Civil Service rules; applicants must be ServSafe certified, hold a Food Handler Certificate, and meet education and license requirements.

Qualifications

• High School graduation or equivalent.
• Two years' cook experience in large-quantity settings.
• Must be ServSafe certified and have a valid Food Handler Certificate.
• Appointees must possess a valid New Jersey driver’s license if vehicle operation is required.

Responsibilities

• Exercise a leadership role in the work performed by other cooks and food service personnel on a regular basis.
• Prepare and cook food in large quantities.
• Assist in planning and constructing menus.
• Take the lead over assigned cooks and food service personnel.
• Requisition supplies, equipment, and utensils required in the kitchen.
• Prepare soups, meats, vegetables, salads, and other foods.
• Bake bread and/or pastries.
• Keep essential records and files.
• Learn to utilize various electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency.
• Perform other duties and tasks assigned by supervisor.

Skills

Leadership

English communication

Sanitation knowledge

Record keeping

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Senior Cook – Various Locations

Position: Senior Cook at various locations within the Newark Board of Education. Posting Information: Pending availability of funds and Board of Education approval.

Location: Newark, New Jersey.

We invite qualified and interested candidates to apply.

Title Governance: This title is governed by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission; the position begins as a provisional employee and requires passing a Civil Service Commission examination to become permanent.

Definition

Under direction, the Senior Cook performs the more responsible work involved in the preparation, cooking, and serving of food in large quantities, works independently without close supervision, or leads assigned cooks and food service personnel.

Note

The definition and examples of work are illustrative; a particular position may not perform all listed duties, and all duties performed may not be listed.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Graduation from High School or Vocational School or possession of an approved High School Equivalent Certificate.
• Two (2) years experience as a cook involving the preparation and cooking of a variety of food in large quantities in the kitchen of a club, restaurant, hospital or other institute.
• Must be Served Safe certified and have a valid Food Handler Certificate.
• Appointees must possess a valid New Jersey driver’s license if vehicle operation is necessary to perform essential duties.

Basic Functions and Responsibilities

• Exercise a leadership role in the work performed by other cooks and food service personnel on a regular basis.
• Prepare and cook food in large quantities.
• Assist in planning and constructing menus.
• Take the lead over assigned cooks and food service personnel.
• Requisition supplies, equipment, and utensils required in the kitchen.
• Prepare soups, meats, vegetables, salads, and other foods.
• Bake bread and/or pastries.
• Keep essential records and files.
• Learn to utilize various electronic and/or manual recording and computerized information systems used by the agency.
• Perform other duties and tasks assigned by supervisor.

Knowledge and Abilities

• Knowledge of procedures used in preparing and cooking foods to preserve flavor, nutritional values, and quality.
• Knowledge of use, adjustment, and care of food service equipment used in large‑scale food preparation.
• Ability to carry out directions and learn quickly from instructions and demonstrations.
• Ability to prepare and cook a wide range of foods including vegetables, fruits, meats, poultry, fish, soups, pastries, cakes, puddings, and other items.
• Ability to maintain health and sanitary standards for food preparation and ensure clean, orderly, sanitary, and safe working areas.
• Ability to estimate quantities and menu requirements.
• Ability to adjust recipes according to the number of servings needed.
• Ability to develop, assign, and supervise the work of food service workers and other employees.
• Ability to keep essential records and files.
• Ability to learn and utilize various electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency.
• Ability to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position; American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered acceptable forms of communication.
• Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long as they can perform essential functions after reasonable accommodation. If accommodation cannot be made without undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Reports To: Department Head

Salary, Employment Period and Union Affiliation

• Salary Range: $22.03 per hour*
• Employment Period: 10 months and 20 days during July or August
• Union Affiliation: Local 3
• Pending contract negotiations

In an effort to attract and retain staff, NBOE offers competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits for all full‑time staff. Offerings include medical and prescription drug plans, employer‑paid dental and vision coverage, an array of wellness and voluntary benefits programs, and paid time off. All employees receive paid personal and sick days, as well as vacation days for 12‑month employees. For details, visit https://nboehrs.com/

How to Apply

Newark Board of Education accepts electronic applications only.

Opening and Closing Date

Opening Date: February 24, 2025

Closing Date: March 7, 2025 or until filled

The Newark Board of Education is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.