Shelter Cook

Youritrecruiter; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Generous paid time off

Professional development support

Job summary

A nonprofit shelter organization in Los Angeles seeks a Cook to prepare healthy meals for residents. This role involves planning menus, ensuring food safety standards, and providing balanced nutrition. Candidates should have experience in similar settings, possess strong organizational skills, and be able to manage kitchen operations independently. Benefits include health insurance and generous paid time off. The position requires daily on-site coverage to guarantee consistent meal preparation.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a cook in a shelter, school, or restaurant.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and proper handling.
• Ability to work independently and manage kitchen operations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Reliable, punctual with flexible availability.
• Food Handler Certification required or obtainable before start.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook nutritious lunch and dinner meals.
• Plan balanced menus that meet dietary needs.
• Maintain food safety and sanitation standards.
• Monitor food supplies and manage inventory.
• Keep a clean, organized kitchen.
• Communicate inventory needs to management.
• Accommodate dietary restrictions when necessary.
• Support a trauma-informed shelter environment.
• Follow shelter policies and safety procedures.

Skills

Food safety knowledge

Meal preparation for groups

Organizational skills

Time management

Flexibility

Education

Food Handler Certification

Job description

Los Angeles, United States | Posted on 02/07/2026

The EESP Shelter Cook is responsible for preparing healthy, nutritious daily meals for shelter residents. This role ensures that lunch and dinner are prepared safely, efficiently, and in accordance with food safety standards. The Cook plays a vital role in supporting resident wellness by providing balanced meals in a respectful and community-centered environment.

This position requires daily on-site coverage to ensure consistent meal preparation for residents.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook nutritious lunch and dinner meals for shelter residents
• Plan balanced menus that meet basic dietary and nutritional needs
• Maintain food safety and sanitation standards in compliance with local health regulations
• Ensure proper food storage, labeling, and inventory management
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment
• Monitor food supplies and communicate inventory needs to management
• Accommodate dietary restrictions and special meal requirements when necessary
• Support a positive, respectful, and trauma-informed shelter environment
• Follow all shelter policies and safety procedures

Requirements

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a cook in a shelter, school, community program, restaurant, or institutional setting preferred
• Knowledge of food safety standards and proper food handling procedures
• Ability to prepare meals for groups efficiently and consistently
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and manage daily kitchen operations
• Reliable and punctual with flexible availability
• Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain prior to start date)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds
• Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous paid time off
• Agency-supported professional development and continuing education

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Good Seed is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals and maintain a work environment free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying. All employees share responsibility for upholding these standards.