Cook III

Cook III Reading, PA 19601 $15 an hour - Full-time $15 an hour - Full-time Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank is seeking applicants for the position of Cook III for our Community Kitchen.

Position Summary:

The Cook III is an entry-level culinary team member responsible for food production, cleanliness and other support activities in the Community Kitchen. This role ensures high-quality, nutritious meals are prepared safely and efficiently for community distribution. The Cook III supports kitchen staff and volunteers, and helps maintain a clean, organized, and compliant kitchen environment.

About us:

The mission of Helping Harvest is to provide nutritious food to people facing hunger in our communities. The Helping Harvest Community Kitchen (HHCK) furthers that mission by creating nutritious, ready-to-eat meals for distribution to food-insecure neighbors in Berks and Schuylkill counties.

Key Responsibilities:

Support Food Preparation & Production:

Daily activities include but are not limited to sweeping, mopping, dishwashing and trash removal. Under the supervision of the Production team, prepare and cook large-scale meals according to established recipes, menus, and nutrition guidelines. Works as a part of the Production team, ensuring timely meal service and consistency in quality and portioning. Ensure all food meets safety, quality, and presentation standards.

Food Safety & Compliance:

Ensure strict adherence to all local, state, and federal food safety regulations (e.g., ServSafe standards). Monitor proper food storage, labeling, and temperature control. Maintain sanitation standards and ensure cleanliness of kitchen, equipment, workspaces and dishwashing area.

Inventory & Resource Management:

Assist with inventory tracking, food rotation and proper storage of food and supplies. Monitor stock levels and communicate inventory needs to the Production Chef.

Program Support:

Support special programs, community events, and outreach initiatives as needed. Collaborate with kitchen leadership on menu planning and nutritional goals. Promote a positive, inclusive, and mission-driven environment.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand for extended periods. Lift and carry up to 50 lbs. daily. Work in a commercial kitchen environment with varying temperatures. We are committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve in Berks and Schuylkill counties. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. Applications will be accepted until a successful applicant is found. Helping Harvest Food Bank provides food to over 350 locations for distribution to families and individuals in need in Berks and Schuylkill Counties. No employment phone calls.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$15.00 per hour

Benefits:

403(b) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Shift:

8 hour shift Application Question(s): Experience working in a non-profit, community kitchen or food bank environment is a plus

Education:

High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

Culinary training or : 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

Driver's License (Preferred) ServSafe Cert. or obtained within a specified timeframe) (Required)

Work Location:

In person