Job Description
Our nonprofit client in Santa Cruz is seeking a compassionate, organized, and energetic Kitchen & Youth Support Specialist to join their residential program team. This role supports the daily operations of the onsite café located within the youth residential facility. The specialist will prepare meals, manage food-related logistics, and build positive relationships with the youth by engaging during mealtimes and community activities.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a kitchen environment and is passionate about supporting young people in a structured, nurturing setting.
This role is part-time (16-20 hour/week). Shift is Saturday-Sunday 9a-6p
Responsibilities include:
- Provides direct supervision and direct client contact with youth.
- Supports youth through daily routines and structured activities.
- Engages youth in educational, recreational, vocational, and independent living activities.
- Provides immediate crisis intervention support.
- Documents incidents and observations.
- Prepare and serve meals and snacks according to established menus, portion control standards, and dietary requirements, including special diets when prescribed.
- Follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection control protocols in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, dining, and food storage areas.
- Monitor food inventory, notify supervisor of needed supplies, and assist with ordering as directed.
- Work cooperatively with clinical and program staff to support mealtime routines that foster a positive and respectful dining experience.
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Required Skills & Experience
- 1+ year of experience working in a school, youth program, or child-focused environment.
- Background in food service, café operations, or kitchen prep.
- Experience with food preparation, inventory management, and ordering.
- Familiarity with after-school programs or youth engagement.
Ability to work weekend shifts consistently.
Nice to Have Skills & Experience
- Experience working in a group home, residential, or therapeutic setting.
- Background in recreational programs or structured youth environments.
Relevant certifications or degrees (e.g., food handler’s card, nutrition, youth development, etc.).
Benefit packages for this role will start on the 1st day of employment and include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as HSA, FSA, and DCFSA account options, and 401k retirement account access with employer matching. Employees in this role are also entitled to paid sick leave and/or other paid time off as provided by applicable law.