Food Service Specialist

Employment Type: Full-Time
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
Department: Operations
Reports To: Program Manager
Location: St. Cloud FL

The Transition House is seeking a dependable and motivated Food Service Specialist to join our this role youll prepare and serve nutritious meals for individuals participating in our residential re-entry programs while maintaining the highest standards of food safety sanitation and customer service. This position is essential to creating a welcoming environment that supports the health and well-being of our residents.

At The Transition House we believe strong teams create strong outcomes. Our work is centered on accountability rehabilitation and opportunity for individuals transitioning back into the community.

We are committed to supporting our employees through professional development a collaborative work culture and a workplace that values both mission impact and employee well-being.

The following duties represent the primary responsibilities of this position. Additional duties may be assigned as operational needs require.

• Prepare and cook breakfast lunch and dinner for approximately 6090 residents.

• Prepare hot and cold food items including meats vegetables salads sandwiches baked goods beverages and desserts.

• Set up serving lines and maintain proper food temperatures in accordance with food safety standards.

• Serve meals while ensuring proper portion control.

• Replenish food utensils dishes trays beverages and condiments during meal service.

• Monitor food quality and safely dispose of spoiled or unsafe food items.

• Clean and sanitize kitchen equipment workstations floors utensils pots pans and food preparation areas.

• Operate kitchen equipment safely and report maintenance or equipment concerns.

• Maintain inventory of food and kitchen supplies and notify supervisors of shortages.

• Wash dishes and service ware while maintaining sanitation standards.

• Follow all food safety sanitation and workplace safety procedures.

• Assist with training new staff as assigned.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support kitchen operations.

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

• At least one (1) year of food service commercial kitchen cafeteria restaurant or institutional food preparation experience preferred.

• Experience preparing meals for large groups is highly desirable.

• Knowledge of food preparation cooking techniques and food presentation.

• Understanding of food safety sanitation and temperature control requirements.

• Ability to safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

• Ability to maintain a clean organized and safe work environment.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical tasks throughout the workday.

• ServSafe Certification required within two (2) weeks of hire.

• Valid drivers license preferred if transportation between sites is required.

• Experience working in correctional residential behavioral health healthcare school or institutional food service settings.

• Experience with inventory management and food ordering.

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

This position primarily works in a commercial kitchen within a residential re-entry program.

Responsibilities may include:

• Standing for extended periods.

• Lifting and moving food products and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Exposure to heat steam commercial kitchen equipment cleaning chemicals and loud kitchen environments.

• Working in a structured residential program serving justice-involved individuals.

Benefits

Comprehensive Benefits Include:

• Medical Dental Vision and Life Insurance

• 401(k) Retirement Plan

Generous Paid Time Off:

• Up to 25 days of PTO based on tenure

• 7 Wellness Days annually

• 11 Paid Holidays plus 1 Floating Holiday

Work-Life Balance & Growth:

• Flexible scheduling options (based on operational needs)

• Professional development support

Additional Perks:

• Employee discount programs

• Referral bonuses

At The Transition House your mental health is our top priority.

We understand that mental well-being is a vital part of maintaining a healthy and productive workplace. Our team works to create a culture of collaboration accountability and balance between work and home life.

We strive to provide our employees the same supportive hand that we extend to our clients. By investing in our staff we build a stronger organization capable of delivering meaningful and lasting impact.

The Transition House Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Employment decisions are based on qualifications merit and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race religion color sex gender identity sexual orientation age non-disqualifying disability national origin veteran status or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal state or local law.

Employment with The Transition House may require background screening through the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse.

Applicants may obtain additional information regarding the screening process at:

The Transition House is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment and employment process. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process should contact Human Resources.