
Cook
The Salvation Army USA Central Territory, Quincy, IL, United States
Duration: Full Time
Help nourish children. Strengthen community. Make summer brighter.
The Quincy Kroc Center is seeking a seasonal Cook to support our Summer Feeding Program, playing a direct role in ensuring children in our community receive safe, nutritious meals in a welcoming and supportive environment during the summer months.
This is a hands-on, service-focused opportunity for someone who enjoys cooking, values food safety, and wants their work to positively impact children and families while school is out.
Why This Role Matters
The Summer Feeding Program helps ensure children have access to healthy meals during the summer months, a time when many families face increased food insecurity. As a Cook at the Quincy Kroc Center, your attention to care, consistency, and food safety helps create a welcoming space where children feel supported, respected, and valued.
Your work supports the Kroc Center's commitment to nurturing the mind, body, and spirit of every member of our community.
Position Details
Position Type: Seasonal / Temporary
Schedule: Monday-Friday | 8:30am-2:00pm
Pay Rate: $16.00/hour
Program Meal Service: Meals served daily from 11:30am-1:00pm
Position Overview
The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving meals in accordance with Illinois Summer Feeding Site Program (SFSP) guidelines and established food safety standards. This role ensures the kitchen, dining, and food service areas are clean, organized, and welcoming while supporting a positive experience for children and program participants.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, prepare, and serve meals in compliance with SFSP requirements and food handling certification standards
- Follow all applicable state and local health department regulations
- Clean and sanitize kitchen, dining room, and food service areas before and after meal service
- Maintain inventory of food, supplies, and kitchen equipment
- Keep pantry, refrigerator, and freezer storage areas organized, labeled, and compliant
- Monitor and document food temperatures to meet safety requirements
- Support a respectful and welcoming environment for all program participants
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor to support program operations
What We're Looking For
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Must have or obtain food handling certification within 30 days of hire
- One (1) year of cooking experience preferred
- Familiarity with Adams County health codes is a plus
- Ability to operate standard and industrial kitchen equipment, including dishwashers, garbage disposals, and three-compartment sinks
- Knowledge of safe food handling practices in a commercial kitchen
- Service-oriented mindset with a genuine desire to help others
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Valid Driver's License with reliable, insured transportation
- Ability to pass a background check and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check
Physical & Working Conditions
- Ability to move or lift up to 25lbs regularly
- Ability to stand and move throughout the kitchen and dining areas for extended periods of time
- Work performed in commercial kitchen environment with exposure to heat, steam, cleaning chemicals, kitchen equipment, and food odors
- Regular lifting, carrying, bending, and reaching during meal preparation and cleanup
Employee Benefits & Perks
We believe in caring for our employees just as we care for our community. When you join the Quincy Kroc Center, you'll enjoy meaningful perks that support your well-being, growth, and sense of purpose, including:
- Paid Time Off (PTO) - We value work-life balance and encourage time to rest and recharge
- Free Individual Kroc Center Membership - Enjoy access to fitness, aquatics, and wellness opportunities
- Family Membership Upgrade Available - Add a family membership for just $10/month
- Employee Discount - Receive a 50% discount on Camp Kroc fees
- Purpose-Driven Work - Be part of a respected, faith-based organization dedicated to hope, dignity, and service
- Pride in Impact - Know that your work directly supports children and families in your community
________________________________________
About the Quincy Kroc Center
The Quincy Kroc Center redefines what a community center can be. It brings together a center of worship, performance venue, aquatics center, fitness and recreation spaces, classrooms, and special event facilities all under one roof.
Our programs and facilities are intentionally designed to stimulate the mind, body, and spirit, providing hope and transformation for individuals and families throughout the community. The Kroc Center is a place where everyone is welcome and where lives are strengthened through connection, wellness, creativity, and service.
Ready to Make a Difference This Summer?
If you're looking for a seasonal opportunity where your cooking skills help support children and strengthen our community, we invite you to apply today and join us at the Quincy Kroc Center - serving hope, one meal at a time.