Cook

Department: Operations / Food Services

Reports to: Director of Operations

Location: Springfield, Massachusetts

Job Type: Full-Time

About Boca Recovery Center Founded in 2016, Boca Recovery Center is a nationally recognized addiction treatment provider specializing in substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. With locations in Florida, New Jersey, Indiana, and Massachusetts; we deliver evidence-based clinical care in a supportive, structured environment. Our team is committed to providing trauma-informed, client-centered services that promote lasting recovery. Position Summary The Cook is responsible for the safe preparation and distribution of high-quality, nutritious meals in a residential treatment setting. This position ensures compliance with food safety regulations and dietary needs of clients under healthcare supervision. The Cook plays a vital role in supporting client health and wellness through meal service and kitchen management.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve meals that meet health, safety, and dietary guidelines for adult clients.
• Accommodate special diets, including diabetic, vegetarian, and allergy-sensitive meals.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, taste, and presentation.
• Ensure proper food storage, inventory rotation, and timely ordering of perishables and dry goods.
• Monitor kitchen hygiene and enforce sanitation standards in compliance with Massachusetts state regulations.
• Inspect food and supplies upon receipt and before use to ensure quality and freshness.
• Work collaboratively with the clinical and operations teams to support client needs.
• Provide exceptional customer service in all client and staff interactions.
• Maintain cleanliness of kitchen, dining, and storage areas, including dishwashing responsibilities as needed.
• Attend required staff meetings and training sessions.
• Manage occasional special meals or event catering needs for the facility.
• Demonstrate safe lifting techniques and handle up to 50 lbs regularly.
• Perform additional culinary duties or facility-related tasks as directed by leadership.

Requirements Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Culinary training or related education is a plus.

Experience

• Minimum 2 years in a culinary or food service role, preferably in healthcare, institutional, or high-volume kitchen settings.

Licensure & Certifications

• Valid driver’s license (Massachusetts), required.
• ServSafe Food Handler Certification or equivalent.
• CPR Certification preferred; required within 6 months of hire.

Other Qualifications

• Thorough understanding of food handling, sanitation, and kitchen safety.
• Ability to follow standardized recipes and dietary plans under clinical guidance.
• Professional, respectful, and team-oriented demeanor.
• Ability to work independently and respond calmly to high-stress situations.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Position is primarily indoors (80–90%) in a temperature-controlled kitchen and prep area.
• Must stand, walk, reach, bend, crouch, and lift throughout an 8-hour shift.
• Frequent use of kitchen equipment: stove, oven, microwave, slicer, dishwasher, telephone, utensils.
• Physical demands include lifting/carrying supplies up to 50 lbs and working in a fast-paced setting.
• Must be comfortable around food odors, noise from equipment, and time-sensitive meal preparation schedules.

Security & Compliance Requirements

• Criminal background check, reference check, and drug screening required.
• Compliance with HIPAA and facility-specific confidentiality policies is mandatory.
• Must complete pre-employment health screening in accordance with Massachusetts Department of Public Health regulations.

Benefits Boca Recovery Center offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health Insurance
• Retirement Plans
• Disability Coverage
• Paid Time Off
• Continuing Education & Professional Development Opportunities

Join Boca Recovery Center and make a meaningful impact through expert, compassionate care in a mission-driven environment focused on recovery and wellness.