Working as part of Family Development and Food Security Team and reporting directly to the Executive Chef, the Shelter Cook provides nutritional services to the VNFC Shelter and programs as required. This position will work evenings and weekends to support the kitchen operations of the VNFC Shelter, which provides temporary shelter for unhoused community.
As the VNFC Shelter Cook, job duties include the following:
- Ensure standards of safe kitchen procedures and rules are posted and adhered to via training sessions for other program staff/participants who may be working or assisting in the kitchen
- Ensure kitchen cleanliness and/or sanitation are completed and maintained daily
- The heating and portioning of shelter meals
- Prep ingredients as needed
- Maintain cleanliness daily
- Going to pick up supplies when needed
- Launder cloths and aprons weekly
- Enforce a Food Safety Plan
- Meet weekly with the Executive Chef for planning, preparing and supervising the preparation of meals/snacks for the Shelter
As a member of the VNFC Team, job duties include the following:
- Document and report activity in alignment with VNFC practices and support internal and external reporting as required including daily guest numbers and accurate records
- Attend relevant professional training and meetings when directed
- Participate in staff development, staff meetings and department meetings as required
- Work both independently, and as part of a team and follow instructions
Familiarity and experience in Indigenous Communities
- Some knowledge of Indigenous cultures and practices including from the territory in which the work of VNFC takes place. Ability to speak about one’s own Indigenous culture, if applicable, and any communities the (prospective) employee has previously lived in or held jobs within.
- In depth knowledge of the experience of Indigenous peoples in Canada including the ongoing processes of colonization, discrimination, and structural violence, and the effects on the health and wellbeing of Indigenous communities.
- Knowledge and practice of providing community-based services to Indigenous peoples using philosophies of cultural humility and cultural safety.
Communication Skills and Abilities
- Excellent interpersonal communication skills including written and oral communication
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from clients and the general public
Leadership Skills and Abilities
- Ability to work independently and be part of an integrated community team
- Ability to multi-task while remaining composed and maintaining a professional attitude in high stress situations
- Ability to be flexible and adapt to an ever-changing environment
Other
- Physical requirement: ability to spend a major portion of the work hours standing, walking, and/or lifting heavy objects. The role may require doing a great deal of stretching, bending and lifting (such as but not limited to kitchen equipment, food and/or dishes).
- This position requires evening and weekend and sometimes irregular shifts.
Education
- FOODSAFE certification, FOODSAFE Level 2 Certification preferred
- Recognized course(s) in cultural safety and humility or equivalent life and/or professional experience
Work Experience
- Previous experience working in the food industry, managing kitchens; receiving and distribution of food
- Relevant experience working within Indigenous communities and/or non-profit organizations
- Previous experience working within Indigenous community with health issues relating to nutrition and healthy family practices regarding the attaining and cooking of foods
Licenses and/or Certificates
- Clear vulnerable sector criminal record check within past six months.
