Cook Assistant

Company: Gay Men's Health Crisis
Location: New York City
Posted on: April 3, 2026

Job Description:

The Cook Assistant supports the Cook in all aspects of meal preparation and kitchen operations in a high-volume production kitchen serving approximately 240 meals per day. The role helps maintain high standards of food quality, safety, cleanliness, and organization while supporting daily kitchen operations and volunteer engagement. This position works closely with the Cook and Kitchen Assistant and helps ensure compliance with New York State Department of Health and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene regulations. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Food Preparation & Production Assist the Cook in daily food preparation, production, and storage in a high-volume kitchen environment serving approximately 240 meals per day. Prepare menu items using approved standardized recipes and high-quality ingredients. Follow menu plans, large-quantity recipes, and production schedules to ensure timely meal service. Assist the Cook with menu preparation and meal production planning. Identify and help resolve food production issues as they arise. Food Safety & Compliance Follow all food safety and sanitation regulations, including New York State Department of Health and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene requirements. Ensure proper labeling of all food items, including ingredients, allergens, and production dates. Maintain safe food handling practices, including proper food storage, temperature control, sanitation procedures, and personal hygiene standards. Support the training and guidance of staff and volunteers on safe food handling, equipment use, and kitchen cleanliness. Kitchen Operations Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment. Ensure all kitchen equipment, workstations, and preparation areas are properly cleaned and sanitized. Assist with inventory monitoring and kitchen supply management. Support dishwashing and kitchen cleanup as needed. Serve as the point of contact for kitchen operations when the Cook is not present. Volunteer Engagement & Program Support Create a welcoming, respectful, and professional environment for volunteers assisting in kitchen operations. Provide guidance to volunteers on kitchen procedures and safe food handling practices. Participate in relevant training sessions as needed. Assist with special projects, agency events, and other duties as assigned by the Cook or Program Director. SPECIAL SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE The ideal candidate will possess the following: · Ability to follow menu plans, large-quantity recipes, and kitchen production schedules. Basic computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office or similar software). Strong organizational and time-management skills. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Must be able to speak and understand basic English; Spanish language skills preferred. Requirements EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATION High School Diploma or equivalent required. New York City Department of Health Food Handler’s Certificate required. ServSafe certification required (or must be obtained within 60 days of hire). Experience Minimum two years of experience in food preparation or food service. Experience in high-volume or institutional kitchens preferred. Knowledge of food safety, sanitation practices, soups, sauces, and large-batch cooking required. Prior work with non-profit agencies or work on behalf of LGBTQ communities and/or people living with HIV is highly desirable. Experience working with other historically marginalized communities (in a professional or volunteer capacity) is also desirable. TECHNICAL SKILLS Basic computer skills required (e.g., Microsoft Office or similar software for inventory or scheduling). WORK ENVIRONMENT & SCHEDULE This is a fully onsite position based at GMHC’s New York City location. Schedule is typically Monday–Friday, with early morning hours. Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required to support agency events or operational needs. Hybrid or remote work is not applicable due to the hands-on nature of the role. Participation in the annual AIDS Walk New York event is mandatory for all GMHC staff. PHYSICAL DEMANDS While performing the duties of this position, the employee must be able to: Stand for extended periods of time. Lift and carry up to 30 pounds. Bend, reach, and move between kitchen stations and storage areas. Work in environments with exposure to heat, cold, humidity, and cleaning chemicals (PPE provided). Maintain focus and efficiency in a fast-paced kitchen environment. GMHC supports a racial and gender-diverse environment which contributes to a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Working at GMHC requires a demonstrated awareness of communities that we serve, and we seek candidates who are dedicated to promoting equity and social justice. Salary Description $40,000-$50,000 (DOE)

Keywords: Gay Men's Health Crisis, New York , Cook Assistant, Hospitality & Tourism , New York City, New York