A school located in the foothills of Ojai, California is seeking an experienced Lead Cook with strong leadership skills and a desire to grow into a Team Lead or Manager role. The school serves three home-cooked meals, seven days a week, to a small community of students and staff. The Lead Cook will report to the Director of Dining Services and assist with food preparation, kitchen operations, and the supervision and training of team members. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing quality food and service and will have the patience and communication skills needed to teach, mentor, and provide hands-on guidance to both employees and students. This individual should be approachable, adaptable, and comfortable working with people who may have varying levels of kitchen experience. The Lead Cook must be adaptable to menu changes, able to meet established meal schedules, and committed to safe food preparation, proper sanitation practices, and maintaining a clean and safe kitchen and pantry area. Job Responsibilities Prepare and assist in the daily creation of home-style, nutritious meals within the school's established menu and budget, as well as applicable state and federal requirements. Prepare, cook, and bake meals, including modified diets as needed, while following appropriate health and food-safety guidelines. Maintain inventory of food and supplies and assist with ordering as needed. Assist the team with cleaning the kitchen and dining areas before and after meals. Provide leadership, training, and clear direction to kitchen team members. Teach, mentor, and provide hands-on guidance to both employees and students. Demonstrate patience when working with individuals with varying levels of kitchen knowledge and experience. Teach and reinforce proper kitchen practices, sanitation, food preparation, and assigned responsibilities. Communicate clearly and professionally with employees, students, staff, and management. Work collaboratively as part of the Dining Services team. Adapt to changing menus, schedules, and operational needs. Be available to work weekends and holidays as required. Job Requirements 4+ years of kitchen production, cooking, or food preparation experience for multiple individuals, or culinary school graduate with a willingness to learn the requirements of cooking in a school environment. Previous leadership, training, mentoring, or supervisory experience. Ability and willingness to teach and mentor both employees and students. Patient and approachable with the ability to provide clear, constructive direction. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excellent understanding of food preparation fundamentals. Ability to follow recipes. Knowledge of food allergies, modified diets, and foodborne illness prevention. Understanding of applicable state and local food-safety and sanitation regulations. Basic mathematical skills. High school diploma, GED, or suitable alternative. Current food safety/manager certification as required.

Pay:

$23.75 - $27.50 per hour Expected hours: No less than 40.0 per week

Benefits:

401(k) Health insurance Paid sick time Paid training Application Question(s): If you do not have the 4 years of experience, are you a culinary school graduate? Do you have previous experience in modified diet meal plans? Do you have experience in cooking home-style nutritional meals? this position requires regular interaction with students, including providing instruction, guidance, and hands-on training. Are you comfortable with this responsibility? Please briefly describe your experience training, teaching, or mentoring others in a work environment.

Education:

High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

Food preparation: 4 years (Required)

Cooking:

4 years (Required)

License/Certification:

Food Handler Certification (Required) Shift availability: Day Shift (Preferred) Night Shift (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person