Prep Cook/Kitchen Porter

POSITION: Prep Cook / Kitchen Porter

LOCATION: Boccardo Regional Reception Center, San Jose

REPORTS TO: Kitchen & Food Services Manager

STATUS: Part-time / Non-Exempt (3am-7:30am/3pm-7:30am)

COMPENSATION: $25-27/Hourly

POSITION 1: Wed-Sun 3am-7:30am

POSITION 2: Wed-Sun  3pm-7:30pm                            

ABOUT HOMEFIRST

Established in 1980, HomeFirst™ is a nonprofit organization passionately working to end homelessness. We serve the Bay Area community through low-barrier programming and systems leadership – meeting each person where they are by offering support and resources that address immediate and long-term housing needs. With nearly 45 years of experience, we view housing as a fundamental human right and understand that solving homelessness requires a collaborative effort.

ROLE OVERVIEW

The Prep Cook / Kitchen Porter is responsible for assisting the Kitchen Chefs and Cooks in the preparation of daily meals.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

This role reports to the Food & kitchen Services Manager.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Prep Cook Responsibilities

• Wash, chop, and prepare ingredients as directed by kitchen staff
• Follow portion control and prep instructions accurately
• Set up workstations and inamgredients before service
• Assist in basic cooking tasks as assigned (e.g., assembling simple dishes, sauces, or salads)
• Label, date, and store food items properly
• Maintain a clean and sanitary prep area

Porter / Dishwasher Responsibilities

• Wash dishes, utensils, pots, and pans efficiently
• Maintain cleanliness of dish station and kitchen equipment
• Take out trash and recycling; clean bins as needed
• Sweep and mop kitchen floors; keep storage and service areas clean
• Restock clean dishes and kitchen supplies
• Assist with receiving and storing deliveries
• Other duties as assigned.

ORGANIZATIONAL EQUITY STATEMENT

At HomeFirst, diversity, equity, and inclusion guide our services, workplace, and decisions. Recognizing housing as a social justice issue, we prioritize equitable practices, honor lived experiences and uphold dignity for all. By fostering belonging, accountability, and continuous improvement, we embed DEI values in our processes, recruitment, and leadership, striving for excellence at every level.

HomeFirst is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. Additionally, HomeFirst participates in the E-Verify program, as required by law.

HomeFirst is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please let your recruiter know.

QUALIFICATION (YOU HAVE)

• High school diploma or GED (preferred)
• Some kitchen or dishwashing experience (preferred but not required)
• Food Handler's Permit or certification (as required by local/state law)
• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and evenings

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in both food prep and dishwashing
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) a plus

Skills & Competencies:

• Basic knife skills and familiarity with kitchen prep work
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Strong work ethic and reliability
• Time management and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment
• Understanding of basic food safety and sanitation procedures
• Team player with a positive attitude and willingness to help wherever needed

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and move for extended periods (6–8 hours)
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Comfortable working in wet, hot, and humid environments
• Able to bend, stoop, lift, and reach repeatedly throughout shift

Characteristics:

• A desire to work in a nonprofit setting involving individuals who are experiencing homelessness, mentally ill, chemically addicted and/or of diverse cultural or racial origins.
• A passion to support the HomeFirst Services mission and ability to articulate its philosophy, values, and practices to internal and external stakeholders.