Kitchen Workers at Cornell Cooperative Extension Southold, NY

Position Overview

The Kitchen Worker position at Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) in Southold, New York, is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in the culinary field and community service. Working within CCE’s educational programs, the Kitchen Worker will assist in preparing meals for various community events, workshops, and educational programs designed to promote healthy eating, nutrition, and food security. This role supports CCE’s mission of providing high-quality, nutritious meals to individuals and families in the local community while also offering an opportunity for international applicants, including those from Africa, to work in the U.S. with visa sponsorship.

As a Kitchen Worker, you will be responsible for various tasks related to food preparation, kitchen sanitation, and maintaining safety and hygiene standards. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about food preparation, customer service, and contributing to their community’s well-being.

Key Responsibilities

1. Food Preparation

Assist in the preparation and cooking of meals for CCE-sponsored programs, events, and community outreach initiatives.
Follow recipes and meal plans under the direction of chefs or kitchen supervisors.
Measure ingredients, clean and chop vegetables, prepare meats, and assist with other food prep tasks as required.
Help with portioning meals to ensure consistency and accuracy in servings.
Ensure that food preparation meets CCE’s nutritional guidelines and adheres to any special dietary needs for program participants.

2. Kitchen Sanitation and Hygiene

Maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen area, including counters, floors, and cooking equipment.
Wash dishes, pots, pans, utensils, and other kitchen items using both manual and machine washing methods.
Ensure that all kitchen tools and utensils are sanitized regularly and comply with food safety standards.
Assist in taking inventory of kitchen supplies, including cleaning supplies and food items, and notify supervisors when stocks are low.
Follow all local and federal health and safety guidelines related to food preparation and kitchen hygiene.

3. Assisting with Meal Service

Help with setting up meal service stations and serving meals during events, workshops, or other community-based programs.
Ensure that food is presented in an appealing manner, following CCE’s standards for meal presentation.
Ensure that all participants are served according to their dietary restrictions and preferences, and provide appropriate alternatives when necessary.
Assist in cleaning up after meals, ensuring that all surfaces are wiped down and leftover food is stored properly.

4. Team Collaboration

Work alongside kitchen staff, including chefs, kitchen supervisors, and volunteers, to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
Assist in meal planning and preparation for larger events, ensuring that meals are prepared efficiently and within time constraints.
Communicate effectively with other team members to ensure that food prep and service run smoothly and that any issues are addressed promptly.
Collaborate in meal delivery, including helping to organize and transport meals when required.

5. Food Storage and Safety

Help with storing food items in compliance with health and safety regulations, ensuring all food is properly labeled and dated.
Assist with the safe handling and storage of perishable goods, ensuring they are kept at the appropriate temperatures to prevent spoilage.
Check the expiration dates of ingredients and discard any expired items in line with safety protocols.

6. Support for Special Projects

Occasionally assist with special community-based programs, such as cooking classes, nutrition workshops, or food distribution programs.
Help organize and prepare for CCE’s educational programs by ensuring food-related materials, tools, and supplies are available and well-organized.

Qualifications

1. Educational Requirements

A High School diploma or equivalent is generally required. For candidates with no formal culinary education, experience in a kitchen environment or food-related service role is beneficial.
While a formal culinary degree is not necessary, a Food Safety certification (e.g., ServSafe) is preferred, though the organization can provide training for the right candidate.

2. Skills and Abilities

Food Preparation Skills: Basic cooking skills are important, as you’ll be working with ingredients and preparing meals under the direction of chefs or supervisors.
Attention to Detail: Ability to follow recipes and meal plans accurately, portion food correctly, and maintain consistency in food preparation.
Organizational Skills: Ability to keep the kitchen clean and organized, maintain inventory, and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
Physical Stamina: The role requires standing for extended periods and performing manual tasks such as lifting, bending, and carrying heavy items (e.g., bags of flour or pots).
Communication Skills: Ability to work collaboratively with kitchen staff, volunteers, and other employees and communicate effectively with team members.
Customer Service: Friendly and courteous attitude toward event participants, program members, and fellow team members.

3. Experience

Prior experience in a kitchen, restaurant, or food service environment is preferred, but not mandatory.
Experience in preparing meals for large groups or community events is a plus.
Strong interest in community service and working in a non-profit environment is advantageous.

4. Visa Sponsorship Requirements

Cornell Cooperative Extension offers visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants, including those from African countries. The organization can sponsor an H-2B visa (for seasonal workers), H-1B visa (for specialty occupations), or other relevant visa types based on the applicant’s qualifications.
Candidates must meet visa eligibility requirements, including having appropriate experience and skills for the role.
The organization will support you throughout the visa application process and assist with visa filing and paperwork.

Why Work at Cornell Cooperative Extension Southold?

Cornell Cooperative Extension is a trusted organization that provides educational programming to enhance the quality of life for people and communities in New York State. By becoming a part of the CCE Southold team, you will have the opportunity to work in a supportive and community-focused environment where your contributions help individuals and families make informed choices about their health, food, and nutrition.

Advantages of working with CCE Southold:

Professional Development: CCE offers opportunities for training in food safety, nutrition, and kitchen management, and encourages ongoing professional growth.
Work-Life Balance: As a non-profit organization, CCE emphasizes a healthy work-life balance, with a supportive and flexible work environment.
Meaningful Work: Working for CCE allows you to directly contribute to the well-being of the community by providing healthy food options, promoting nutrition, and supporting educational initiatives.
Visa Sponsorship: The organization provides sponsorship for qualified international applicants, giving you an opportunity to work in the U.S. while gaining valuable experience.
Comprehensive Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for health insurance, paid time off, and other employee benefits.

Employee Benefits

Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Retirement Plans: Participation in the 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions.
Paid Time Off: Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
Professional Development: Access to training and certifications related to food safety and kitchen management.
Visa Sponsorship: Support for obtaining the necessary work visa for qualified international applicants.
Community Engagement: Opportunities to participate in community outreach and educational programs that make a positive impact.

Application Process

FAQs

Do I need formal culinary training to apply for this position?

No, formal culinary training is not required, although prior experience in food preparation or kitchen work is helpful. Basic cooking skills and a willingness to learn are key.

Can international candidates apply for this position?

Yes, Cornell Cooperative Extension offers visa sponsorship for qualified international candidates, including those from African countries. The organization can sponsor H-2B, H-1B, or other relevant visas.

What is the salary for this position?

The salary for a Kitchen Worker typically ranges from $30,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on experience. Compensation may vary based on qualifications and responsibilities.

What type of visa will I be sponsored for?

The visa type depends on your qualifications and the specific role. Common visa types for this position include the H-2B visa (for seasonal work) or H-1B visa (for skilled roles). The company will assist in the visa application process.