Job Specifications

COUNTY OF SANTA CRUZ

Under direct supervision, assist in preparing and serving food; clean kitchen utensils, equipment and food preparation areas, maintain a clean facility and perform other duties as required.

Positions in this class are distinguished from the next higher class of Cook in that employees in the latter are responsible for preparation and cooking of food on an assigned shift for a large population in an institutional setting, and supervise inmate or ward workers as well as Cook's Assistants.

Assist cooks in the preparation of all kinds of foods using a variety of kitchen appliances and equipment; set up serving line and assist in the serving of food and prepare trays to deliver to Juvenile Hall units and Redwoods and may deliver food to units; clean kitchen utensils, equipment, and food preparation areas including refrigerators, freezers and storage areas; clean eating utensils, trays and other food service equipment and areas after meals; unpack and stores supplies; and other kitchen and dining room related activities as directed by the Head Cook.

Some knowledge of:

• Methods, materials, and equipment used to prepare and serve food in an institutional setting or commercial kitchen.
• Cleaning methods and materials used to maintain kitchen and related utensils and equipment in a sanitary manner.
• Kitchen sanitation and safety measures.
• Operation, cleaning and care of utensils, equipment and work areas.

• Measure food portions and serve food.
• Follow oral and written instructions.
• Keep simple records.
• Work cooperatively with others.
• Lift items weighing up to 60 pounds from floor level, such as boxes of produce.
• Practice security measures.
• Stand and walk for long periods with intermittent breaks.
• Assist cooks in preparation of meals.

Education and Experience: Any combination of training and experience which would provide the required knowledge and abilities listed above is qualifying.

Background Investigation: Ability to pass background investigation.

Special Working Conditions: Exposure to the possibility of burns and/or bodily injury; infections which might cause chronic disease or death; variable temperatures; electrical hazards; chemical irritants; high levels of noise; and potentially hostile detainees.

Other Special Working Requirements: Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays and on an emergency, as needed basis.

PREVIOUS CLASS TITLES: None

Bargaining Unit: 41

EEOC Job Category: 08

Occupational Grouping: 27

Workers' Comp Code: 0285

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