Food Services Specialist; Gainesville

Position Title: Food Services Specialist
Location: Gainesville, FL
Salary: $16.32/hour | Non-exempt

Why Choose Meridian?

For over 50 years,
Meridian Healthcare has been a trusted provider of compassionate care for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges. With service centers across 13 counties in North Central Florida, we are committed to transforming lives and communities from the inside out.

We live by our core values:
Hope, Empathy, Accountability, Resilience, and Teamwork (H.E.A.R.T.). If these resonate with you, we invite you to become part of our dedicated and mission‑driven team.

As a Food Services Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the operational excellence and strategic direction of Meridian. You will:

• Read and follow menu in preparation of meals
• Cook adequate amount needed for each meal
• Serve meals and adhere to portion control ensuring each consumer gets the required amount of each food item
• Transport food to CSU and serve consumers
• Transport stock items to other units throughout campus
• Record all food removed from storage to maintain a proper inventory
• Keep records for productivity
• General housekeeping of the kitchen including washing pots, pans and serving pieces, cleaning all prep areas, removal of trash, and sweeping and/or mopping of floors

• The ideal candidate should have 6 months experience in food service, as a line/prep cook with restaurant and/or cafeteria experience
• Graduation from a standard high school or equivalent preferred
• Must have a current Florida Driver's License with a clean driving record

• Vibrant Culture: Friendly, flexible, and engaging work environment with regular celebrations and wellness events.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous PTO for vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple health insurance options, dental, vision, life insurance, long‑term disability, and more.
• Wellness & Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness incentives, and mental health resources.
• Retirement & Compensation: Competitive salary and a 403(b) retirement plan with up to 8% company match after 7 years.
• Growth Opportunities: Tuition reimbursement, career advancement pathways, and eligibility for public service loan forgiveness.
• Perks: Discounts on cell phone plans, travel reimbursement, Legal Shield, pet insurance, and more.

Apply today and help us bring hope and healing to our communities.

Meridian is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.