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Job Description
Lead Cook - Fort Irwin Dining Facility (DFAC)
Location:
Fort Irwin, CA Pay:
$23.50 - $25.00 per hour
Position Type:
Full-Time Reports To:
DFAC Manager / Shift Supervisor Position Summary Food Services Inc. of Gainesville (FSIG) is seeking an experienced Lead Cook to oversee daily food production operations within a military dining facility at Fort Irwin. The Lead Cook serves as the senior culinary team member on shift and is responsible for directing kitchen operations, supervising kitchen staff, ensuring food quality standards, and maintaining compliance with all food safety and sanitation requirements. This position plays a critical role in supporting military readiness by ensuring nutritious, high-quality meals are prepared and served efficiently to Soldiers and authorized patrons. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Lead and coordinate daily kitchen operations and food production activities. Supervise cooks and food service personnel during meal preparation and service periods. Prepare and cook menu items according to approved recipes, production schedules, and government standards. Ensure all food products meet established quality, appearance, taste, and portion control standards. Assign tasks and monitor workflow to ensure timely meal service. Operate commercial kitchen equipment including grills, ovens, steamers, kettles, fryers, slicers, and mixers. Monitor and document food temperatures in accordance with food safety requirements. Ensure compliance with Tri-Service Food Code standards, HACCP procedures, and sanitation requirements. Complete and review production logs, temperature records, and required documentation. Assist with inventory management, receiving, stock rotation, and food storage procedures. Train and mentor newly assigned kitchen personnel. Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment. Support special events, field feeding requirements, and surge operations as required. Maintain professional interactions with military personnel, government representatives, and team members. Qualifications High School Diploma or GED preferred. Minimum of 2 years of commercial, institutional, military, healthcare, or large-volume food service cooking experience required. Previous lead cook, kitchen supervisor, or culinary leadership experience preferred. Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, HACCP, and large-scale food production principles. Ability to read and follow standardized recipes and production schedules. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Ability to obtain and maintain installation access credentials. Food Handler Certification required or ability to obtain upon hire. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds. Ability to work in hot, cold, and fast-paced kitchen environments. Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, and repetitive movements.
Benefits Competitive hourly pay:
$23.50 - $25.00 per hour Medical, dental, and vision insurance Paid vacation Paid holidays Employee training and development opportunities Stable year-round employment supporting the U.S. Army mission Schedule Full-time position Weekday, weekend, holiday, and rotating shift availability may be required based on operational needs. Join FSIG and help provide exceptional food service support to the Soldiers and personnel who train and serve at Fort Irwin.
Pay:
$23.50 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance