Food Services Specialist (cook)

Food Service Specialist

Bringing nourishment, dignity, and structure to recovery—one meal at a time.

Job Summary

GAAMHA is seeking a mission-driven and food-savvy Food Service Specialist to lead meal planning and preparation at our residential recovery program. This role is more than just cooking—it's about redefining community support through nutrition, collaboration, and leadership in the kitchen. The ideal candidate will provide consistent, wholesome meals that nourish the body and support the journey to recovery, all while maintaining a warm, inclusive dining environment. You'll play a key part in a team that believes everyone deserves access to compassionate care—and that includes the food we serve.

Responsibilities & Duties

• Plan and prepare nutritious and appetizing weekday dinners for residents.
• Provide breakfast and lunch items for self-service by residents and create a weekend dinner plan for staff implementation.
• Design weekly menus in consultation with the Program Director to meet dietary needs, allergies, and cultural/religious food restrictions.
• Order all food and kitchen supplies weekly, ensuring cost-effective and quality purchasing.
• Maintain accurate inventory, records, and purchase logs for billing and audit compliance.
• Receive and verify deliveries of food and supplies; resolve any discrepancies with vendors.
• Keep the kitchen, pantry, refrigerators, freezers, cooking equipment, and dining area clean and in working order.
• Supervise and engage residents working in the kitchen, offering hands-on guidance that promotes community integration and personal responsibility.
• Ensure the dining room is set and ready for every meal, contributing to a dignified and welcoming environment.
• Notify the Program Director of any equipment repair or replacement needs promptly.
• Occasionally pick up supplemental food or supplies as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support GAAMHA's mission and operations.

Qualifications

• Current Food Safety Certification (Serve Safe) and Certified Allergen Awareness Training Certificate required.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in food preparation and service, preferably in residential or institutional settings.
• Knowledge of or interest in supporting individuals with substance use and co-occurring disorders in a recovery home setting.
• Strong time management, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully with residents and staff.
• Understanding of HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 confidentiality requirements.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Must pass CORI and Adam Walsh/Child Protective Services (CPS) background checks.

Supervision

• Supervision Given: None
• Supervision Received: Reports directly to the Program Director

Schedule

• Monday–Friday 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Why Join GAAMHA?

At GAAMHA, we believe in real impact. Every role, every meal, every act of care makes a difference. You'll be part of a team that's redefining what community support looks like—with dignity, innovation, and a relentless commitment to helping others thrive. Join us in creating a space where healing happens over shared meals and every individual is treated with compassion and respect.