Temporary Cook - Nutritious Meals & Kitchen Leadership

Encompass Community Services; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

Acupuncture and chiropractic benefits

403(b) retirement plan

Vacation days and paid holidays

Sick days (pro-rated for part-time)

Job summary

Encompass Community Services in Santa Cruz, CA, is seeking a Temporary Cook for the El Dorado Center. This full-time temporary role covers 90–120 days with duties including meal planning, cooking, supervising kitchen staff, and maintaining safety and sanitation standards for a 16-bed facility.

You will work in a therapeutic environment, serving nutritious meals while respecting residents’ dignity and health needs. Position requires CA driver’s license and ability to lift up to 40 lbs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Two years’ cooking experience and knowledge of nutrition.
• California Food Handler Card required at time of hire.
• Must have a valid CA driver’s license and be able to drive for agency business.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs regularly.

Responsibilities

• Plan and cook nutritious meals for residents; prepare weekly menus and adapt for dietary needs.
• Solicit and organize food donations from local sources; coordinate pickups.
• Maintain inventory of food staples and kitchen supplies; ensure cleanliness and safety.
• Ensure kitchen adheres to health codes; train staff on kitchen safety protocols.
• Work Monday–Friday with hours to be negotiated with Program Manager.

Skills

Team player

Communication

Food safety knowledge

Nutrition knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

California Food Handler Card

Job description

Encompass Community Services in Santa Cruz, CA, is seeking a Temporary Cook for the El Dorado Center. This full-time temporary role covers 90–120 days with duties including meal planning, cooking, supervising kitchen staff, and maintaining safety and sanitation standards for a 16-bed facility.

You will work in a therapeutic environment, serving nutritious meals while respecting residents’ dignity and health needs. Position requires CA driver’s license and ability to lift up to 40 lbs.