Cook

Johnston County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Johnston County Detention Center has an immediate opening for a Cook. The Cook assists the Food Services Manager in coordinating inmates engaged in the preparation and serving of food to the inmate population. Work requires the employees to cook a variety of food items as listed upon the prescribed menu, work twelve‑hour shifts to ensure proper coverage in the preparation of all meals, maintain sanitary conditions, and supervise trustees in similar tasks.

Patience and firmness are required in frequent contacts with inmates.

• Assist the Food Services Manager and independently participate in the preparation of a complete meal by starting the cooking process, seasoning, observing while cooking, removing when done, and placing food in warming devices.
• Secure necessary items used in the meal preparation and prepare the food for cooking.
• Supervise inmates in their assignment in the kitchen including cooking, baking, and cleaning.
• Participate in and supervise inmates in the serving and rationing of meats, vegetables, and desserts.
• Participate in and supervise the preparation of meats, vegetables, breads, cakes, desserts, and salads.
• Prepare items and may prepare special diet foods depending upon the needs of the inmates.
• Perform related duties as required.

• General knowledge of methods of preparation and cooking of food in quantity lots.
• General knowledge of the use of various pieces of cooking equipment used in commercial and institutional kitchens.
• Ability to maintain high standards of personal cleanliness, as well as food sanitation.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

• Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and performance of repetitive motions.
• Must be able to perform medium work exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and 20 pounds of force frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force constantly.
• Must possess the visual acuity to determine accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned.

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• Some experience in food preparation; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• If the position requires a degree, official transcripts must be submitted within 30 days of hire.
• A pre‑employment reference check will be conducted.
• A background check may be required and may include criminal history, motor vehicle records, sex offender registry checks, pre‑employment drug screening, SBI fingerprinting, and, if applicable, a National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) check.
• A conviction record does not automatically disqualify you from employment, unless otherwise required by state law. Each situation is reviewed on a case‑by‑case basis.

Johnston County provides a comprehensive, affordable insurance and benefits program. Employees are offered a diverse selection of benefits including medical (no‑cost for the employee plan), dental, life, and supplemental benefit coverages. Employees can also take advantage of our on‑site wellness clinic and virtual telehealth program, both at no‑cost! Additional benefits include participation in the NC Retirement System, a 401(k) match option, generous paid leave and holiday schedule, tuition reimbursement, and more!

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• This description applies to benefits eligible positions.

• Entry level

• Full‑time

• Management and Manufacturing

• Individual and Family Services