DSHS Rainier Cook

DSHS Rainier Cook 1

Are you passionate about cooking and eager to make a difference in the lives of others? If you thrive in a dynamic environment and take pride in your culinary skills, we have an opportunity for you at Rainier School Habilitation Center in Buckley, WA.

As a Cook, you’ll play a vital role in a team dedicated to supporting residents with intellectual disabilities. Imagine the impact of preparing over 10,000 meals and snacks each month, knowing that your work directly contributes to the well‑being and happiness of our residents. This is more than just a job—it’s a chance to be part of something meaningful.

Join us in our mission to partner with people to access support, care, and resources.

Please note: The proposed schedule for these positions are:
Saturday - Wednesday 7:30 am – 4 pm
Friday - Tuesday 10 am – 6:30 pm.
We are a 24‑hour facility and working on holidays may be required. This is a non‑permanent position. Opportunities performed on‑site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary. Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

• Prepare hot and cold foods per posted menu, using state and agency‑approved recipes and adjusting those recipes to prepare appropriate amounts
• Set up, use, and clean all food service equipment associated with preparation and cleanup tasks
• Perform all pre‑preparation tasks while adhering to all federal, state, and local health and safety guidelines
• Maintain all kitchen areas and equipment in a safe and healthy manner
• Record information on various logs regarding sanitizing/cleaning, food preparation, and food safety information
• Transport meals and supplies to cottages if needed

• Knowledge of large‑scale preparation of food and beverages
• Ability to adjust recipe portions, sizes, and ingredients as needed per diet instructions
• Experience with food safety regulations
• Interact with residents, staff, and visitors in a professional friendly manner
• Work positively and professionally in a team environment
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities throughout the day in a fast‑pace environment

Professionals who have at least one year of experience in food preparation or cooking and a current Washington State Food Worker Card or the ability to obtain one within 14 days of employment. Completion of large‑scale cooking course may substitute for experience.

For information about a Washington State Food Worker Card .

The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

Questions about this opportunity? Please contact DSHS Recruiter Alex Baclaan laan.gov and reference project number 08278.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information.

Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725‑5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑833‑6384.

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