ABOUT US
Since 1974, The Hope Centre has been dedicated to strengthening the Welland community by offering essential services such as our Community Lunch Program, Food Bank, and Housing Stability programs. Guided by our core values of stability, direction, and empowerment, we provide personalized, one-on-one supports to individuals in need. Our work extends beyond immediate assistance, as we are also actively involved in community development and advocacy. Originally founded by members and organizations within the community, The Hope Centre began as a volunteer-run initiative to help those who were underserved by the social welfare system. Today, we continue that mission with compassion and commitment.
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Program Manager, the Cook plays a vital role in the operation of the Housing Focused Shelter by ensuring food security for clients. This position is responsible for general food preparation, cooking, and related duties. The Cook delivers client-focused service by planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks, while also managing food orders for the shelter. Utilizing menus, the Cook prepares meals that meet dietary restrictions and maintains a high standard of quality and cleanliness, all while adhering to applicable health standards.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Prepare and produce daily meals and snacks, using standardized recipes, appropriate quantities, portion control, and scheduled methods of preparation, eliminating waste and leftovers.
- Fill food carts and trays; take and record food temperatures prior to serving.
- Serve meals and snacks to clients and staff as required.
- Prepare menus that meet the nutritional needs of the shelter clients, including any special dietary needs and for special events.
- Review menus and communicate changes/substitutions and maintain records as required.
- Make decisions in food production and meal service when management is not available and/or in emergency situations.
- Maintain necessary standards of cleanliness, sanitation, and organization in the kitchen and related equipment (dishes, utensils, linens, as well as work, meal service, dining, and storage areas). Check kitchen hood and dryer vents for accumulation of combustible deposits.
- Organize and clean food storage, food preparation, meal service, and dining areas.
- Responsible for the proper storage and use of foods, including leftovers, to ensure quality and efficiency.
- Order and maintain food and kitchen supplies as needed, under the direction of the Program Manager.
- Receive orders, check, sign, and date all invoices and store supplies. Maintain order and inventory records.
- Respond to inquiries from clients, staff, suppliers, etc. via variety of methods (i.e. in person, via telephone, email, etc.).
- Assist with laundry and general shelter cleaning duties when necessary.
- Participate in training based on individual needs, operational or regulatory requirements.
- Follow established safe working practices/procedures (ex. food handling, WHMIS, infection control protocols, PPE, etc.) and participate in training as required.
- Participate in quality assurance, risk management, and product evaluation activities, under the direction of the Program Manager.
- Carry out duties with care and attention for shelter client safety and in a manner consistent with applicable policies and procedures.
- Uphold confidentiality of any materials or information exposed.
- In emergency situations, assist with the activation of emergency plans and carry out duties assigned and associated with the response plans.
- Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Secondary School Graduation Diploma (OSSGD), required.
- Experience working in a setting where meals are prepared for large numbers, required.
- Possession of a Safe Food Handling Certificate, required.
- WHMIS certification, required.
- Working knowledge of “Canada’s Guide for Healthy Eating”, “Public Health Food Premises Regulations” and “Food Safety Guidelines for Kitchens.”
- Naloxone, Non- Violent Crisis intervention and First Aid/CPR training, preferred.
KEY CANDIDATE COMPETENCIES
- Ability to plan healthy menus, maintain inventories of food.
- Excellent problem solving and conflict resolution skills.
- Good interpersonal skills.
- Compassion and sensitivity concerning issues of poverty, homelessness, mental health, addiction and diversity.
OUR EMPLOYEE PROMISE
- A supportive, friendly and dedicated team environment.
- Potential for growth within company.
- A chance to make a positive impact in your community through meaningful work.
*** $25.55/hour