Behavioral Health Cook

Position Summary

The Behavioral Health Cook at Ava Health plays an important role in supporting recovery, wellness, and community through food. This position is responsible for preparing nutritious, home-style meals for approximately 32 residents while creating a welcoming dining experience that fosters connection, dignity, and healing.

The ideal candidate is a self-starter who enjoys cooking for groups, takes pride in food quality and presentation, and values meaningful interaction with service users. In addition to meal preparation, this role supports menu planning, inventory management, food ordering, and kitchen operations while ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.

This position reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) regarding food service operations and offers opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve nutritious breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for approximately 32 residents and program participants
• Plan balanced, appealing menus while considering dietary needs, restrictions, and food budgets
• Manage food inventory, supplies, and storage areas
• Assist with ordering food and kitchen supplies and receiving deliveries
• Maintain accurate inventory records and notify leadership of supply needs
• Ensure kitchen cleanliness and organization in accordance with health and safety standards
• Follow all food handling, sanitation, and storage requirements
• Create a positive and welcoming dining environment for residents and staff
• Build supportive and professional relationships with service users through daily interactions
• Collaborate with leadership to improve food service operations and dining experiences
• Participate in special meals, events, and food-related activities as needed
• Support Ava Health's mission by recognizing the role food plays in recovery, wellness, and community connection

Skills and Competencies

• Passion for preparing quality home-style meals for groups
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Positive, service-oriented attitude
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to build rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Commitment to Ava Health's core values of Agency, Service, and Purpose
• Attention to detail regarding food quality, cleanliness, and safety

Required Qualifications

• Previous cooking experience in a residential, healthcare, hospitality, or similar setting
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
• Ability to prepare meals for medium-sized groups
• Ability to manage inventory and kitchen supplies
• Reliable transportation and dependable attendance
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods

Preferred Qualifications

• ServSafe Certification or willingness to obtain certification
• Experience working in behavioral health, healthcare, recovery, residential, or community-based settings
• Experience with menu planning and food purchasing
• Familiarity with trauma-informed and recovery-oriented environments

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Work is performed primarily in kitchen and food storage areas
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying supplies
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
• May occasionally assist with food-related activities and events

Why Join Ava Health?

Food is more than nutrition—it is care, connection, and healing. At Ava Health, we believe meals can create comfort, foster community, and support recovery. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while growing within a mission-driven organization. Overtime opportunities may be available.