Food Service Worker

2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Direct message the job poster from Aspiranet

Location:

On‑Site – Santa Cruz, CA.

Schedule:

Full‑Time Non‑Exempt. Department:
Residential.

Reports to:

Program Manager. Pay Range: $23.00‑$25.00/hr.

Aspiranet, a leading California‑based nonprofit dedicated to supporting children, youth, and families, is seeking compassionate and committed Food Service Worker professionals to join our Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) and Children’s Crisis Psychiatric Program (CCPP). These specialized programs offer short‑term, trauma‑informed care for youth experiencing acute emotional and psychiatric crises, providing vital stabilization services to help them return safely to their homes, schools, or communities.

If you’re passionate about helping youth navigate moments of crisis with dignity, empathy, and expert support, we invite you to join our mission of healing, resilience, and hope.

About Aspiranet: a mission‑driven social services agency with a proud legacy of supporting California communities since 1975. We are committed to ensuring that every child is loved, every family is supported, and every individual has the tools to succeed. Our services span the state and are delivered through six dedicated divisions:
Foster Care and Adoption;
Transitional Aged Youth (TAY);
Residential;
Intensive Home‑Based Services;
Behavioral Health; and Family and Community.

The Food Service Worker is responsible for preparing, serving, and maintaining safe, nutritious meals for clients and staff in a mental health care environment. This position plays an important role in supporting the overall treatment environment by ensuring that meals are delivered on time, in compliance with nutritional guidelines, food safety regulations, and any client‑specific dietary needs. Working closely with the Program Manager, clinical staff, and other program team members, the Food Service Worker contributes to a therapeutic and respectful setting that supports recovery and well‑being.

• 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.
• Safely operate and maintain kitchen equipment.
• Assist in menu planning to ensure nutritional balance and appeal, with input from staff and, where appropriate, clients.
• Work cooperatively with clinical and program staff to support mealtime routines that foster a positive and respectful dining experience.
• Maintain accurate temperature logs, cleaning schedules, and other required records.
• Adhere to all agency policies, procedures, and licensing/accreditation requirements.
• Assist with special events, holiday meals, or program celebrations as assigned.
• Perform other assigned duties.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 1 year of experience in food preparation or food service.
• Experience working in a healthcare, psychiatric, residential, or institutional setting.
• Food Handler Certification or Serv Safe Certification.
• Knowledge of therapeutic diets and nutrition principles.
• Knowledge of safe food handling practices.
• Ability to follow recipes and portion guidelines.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries in a behavioral health setting.
• Meets all state‑required conditions of employment as set forth by Community Care Licensing (Fingerprint and Child Abuse Index clearance, TB/Health Physical, valid CA driver’s license and clean driving record if driving is required).

Physical demands include standing for extended periods, bending, lifting up to 30 lbs, and operating standard kitchen equipment. Exposure to heat, steam, and cleaning chemicals is common. The work environment is a kitchen and dining setting…