Food Service Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Salary:

Work Schedule

• Tuesday-Friday
• 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  

ABOUT PERSONAL GROWTH COUNSELING SERVICES

At Personal Growth Counseling Services, we believe every individual deserves compassionate, effective, and personalized support on their path to wellness. Based in Toledo, Ohio, our mission is to empower individuals and families to achieve emotional well-being and personal growth through expert behavioral health services. Our team is committed to client-centered care, community impact, and creating a safe, welcoming environment where every individual feels respected and supported.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Food Service Associate is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks while maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming kitchen environment. This role supports the daily operation of the agency's behavioral health programs by ensuring meals are prepared on schedule, food safety standards are followed, and clients receive positive, respectful interactions during meal service.

In addition to food preparation, the Food Service Associate assists with program activities, maintains kitchen inventory, manages food budgets, and contributes to an organized and therapeutic environment that supports client engagement and wellness.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Food Preparation & Meal Service

• Prepare and serve breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages according to the daily program schedule.
• Ensure breakfast is prepared and ready for service by approximately 9:30 AM.
• Prepare lunch in advance to support meal service during the scheduled lunch period.
• Follow standardized recipes and portion sizes when applicable.
• Prepare meals that accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, and special nutritional needs when directed.
• Ensure meals are presented in a clean, organized, and appealing manner.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.

Kitchen Operations

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen, pantry, dining, and food preparation areas.
• Wash dishes, utensils, cookware, and food preparation equipment.
• Rotate food inventory using First-In, First-Out (FIFO) practices.
• Monitor food inventory and notify supervisors when supplies need replenished.
• Properly label, date, and store food items.
• Assist with receiving and organizing grocery deliveries.

Grocery & Budget Management

• Create grocery shopping lists based on weekly menus and anticipated attendance.
• Purchase food and kitchen supplies within established budgets.
• Monitor food costs and minimize waste.
• Maintain organized inventory of food and supplies.
• Ensure sufficient food inventory is available for all scheduled programming.
  

Client Engagement & Program Support

• Greet clients in a welcoming, respectful, and professional manner.
• Foster a positive dining environment that promotes dignity and inclusion.
• Support therapeutic group activities when requested by program staff.
• Assist with room setup and cleanup before and after meals or activities.
• Encourage positive interactions during meal service while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
  

Food Safety & Compliance

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, infection control, and hygiene standards.
• Comply with OSHA, HIPAA, agency policies, and applicable health department regulations.
• Properly use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when required.
• Report equipment issues, food shortages, safety hazards, or maintenance concerns promptly.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding client information at all times.
  

Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with clinical and administrative staff to support daily program operations.
• Assist with special events, celebrations, and agency activities involving food service.
• Communicate effectively regarding dietary concerns, scheduling changes, and program needs.
• Participate in staff meetings and required trainings.
  

QUALIFICATIONS
High School Diploma or GED.

• One (1) year of experience in food service, food preparation, hospitality, cafeteria, restaurant, school nutrition, healthcare, or a related field preferred.
• Basic knowledge of food preparation techniques and safe food handling practices.
• Ability to prepare meals using standard commercial kitchen equipment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Comfortable working in a behavioral health or human services environment.
• Ability to stand, bend, lift up to 40 pounds, and perform repetitive kitchen tasks.
• Valid driver's license preferred for grocery purchasing.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• ServSafe Food Handler or Food Protection Certification.
• CPR and First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days).
• Experience working in behavioral health, healthcare, schools, residential facilities, or community programs.
• Experience planning meals and managing food budgets.
• Knowledge of dietary restrictions and special nutritional needs.
• Experience using inventory tracking systems.
  

Essential Skills

• Food preparation and meal planning
• Food safety and sanitation
• Time management
• Organization
• Customer service
• Team collaboration
• Budget management
• Inventory control
• Communication
• Professionalism
• Problem-solving
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment

Physical Requirements

• Frequently stand and walk for extended periods.
• Lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
• Bend, reach, push, and pull kitchen equipment and supplies.
• Work in environments with heat, cold, and moisture associated with food preparation.
• Safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.
  

Work Environment

This position is performed in a behavioral health treatment setting where the Food Service Associate interacts daily with clients, visitors, and staff. Professionalism, compassion, and respect are essential while maintaining a safe and welcoming dining environment.