Prep and Production Cook

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Kitchen Manager, the Production and Prep cook will be responsible for assisting in executing lunch and dinner, doing prep and production as needed to support upcoming meal service as well as cleaning and closing down the kitchen after dinner. Along with this, the position will be responsible for ongoing kitchen cleanliness, maintenance, and safety. This position will also work with and oversee the meal volunteers on shift and engage with volunteers on the overall implementation of meal services as well as supervise youth doing kitchen chores. This position will ensure that interactions and communication with, as well as any guidance given to youth, volunteers and staff at Urban Peak are trauma informed and emphasize respect, patience and an attitude of cooperation.

Who You Are :

• At least three (3) years of culinary experience in a commercial kitchen or catering for large groups and / or related educational background with 3 verifiable references.
• Proficient knife skills showing speed and accuracy; demonstratable knowledge of basic culinary techniques such as grilling, sautéing, braising, etc. of proteins; cooking vegetables al dente; preparing starches such as pasta, potatoes and rice a variety of ways correctly.
• Ability and willingness to take direction and guidance, follow recipes and follow established routines and processes.
• Ability to take initiative and be creative when invited to do so.
• Lived experience reflective of the youth we serve strongly encouraged but not required.
• Experience working with managing volunteers and community partnerships preferred.
• Experience or education in areas of health and nutrition preferred.
• The ability to connect well, work effectively and communicate in a culturally responsive manner with a diverse youth population.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and to assess and change priorities based upon agency and client needs, in an environment that sometimes includes interpersonal conflict and chaos.
• Skill in mediating and de-escalating, particularly in sensitive situations is preferred.
• Able to make sound decisions, using available information while maintaining appropriate confidentiality.
• Must be team-oriented and able to coordinate with various departments and staff.
• Ability to use second language in written and verbal communication desired (Spanish, Vietnamese, ASL).
• Must pass both federal and state background checks.
• Must pass pre-employment TB screening.
• Ability to use second language in written and verbal communication desired (Spanish, Vietnamese, ASL).
• Ability to pass both federal and state background checks.
• Ability to pass pre-employment TB Screening.
• Ability to pass pre-employment physical.

What You Will Do :

Meal Prep and Service :

Youth and Volunteer Engagement :

Kitchen Cleanliness / General Duties :

What We Offer :

Who We Are :

Founded in 1988, Urban Peak is the only non-profit organization in Denver that provides a full convergence of services for youth ages 12 through 24 experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk of becoming homeless. Our goal is to meet youth where they are and to provide them with the assistance and support, they need to become self-sufficient or obtain the necessary services they need to exit a life on the streets.

Urban Peak provides numerous programs and services that are founded on the principles of trauma-informed care and Positive Youth Development to assist youth in reaching their potential and living a successful life off the streets. Services include street outreach, a 136-bed shelter for youth ages 12 through 24, daytime drop-in services, supportive housing, education and employment services, case management, life skills courses, behavioral health evaluations, meals and more. The youth served at the shelter come from a variety of backgrounds, and we strive to be a safe community for all youth, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, class, educational background, sexual orientation, gender identity, or ability status.

Urban Peak embraces diversity and considers all qualified candidates that have an interest in the non-profit sector.  We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, HIV / AIDS status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We encourage all candidates to apply.