COOK I (UMP)

at Department of Human Services in Chester, Illinois, United States

Job Description

Position Overview

The Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery is seeking to hire a Cook I for the Chester Mental Health Center located in Chester, Illinois to prepare and cook on a quantity scale basis for individuals and staff on an assigned shift. Assumes responsibility for the section of the meal preparation assigned. Batch cooks according to policies and procedures; coordinates cooking operations in the absence of the Cook II.

• Prepares and cooks on a quantity scale basis for individuals and staff of the Chester Mental Health Center on an assigned shift.


• Operates standard cooking equipment such as mixing machines, steam cookers, toasters, food choppers, bake ovens, steam kettles.


• Assists in the inspection of the kitchen to verify the kitchen is equipped with the necessary supplies and needed food.


• Cleans equipment and work area to maintain sanitation, safety, and conditions.


• Serves as back-up for the food service line with food/batch cook required food items.


• Completes all Department of Human Services (DHS) and Capitol Region Mental Health Center (CRMHC) mandatory training requirements and participates in education workshops to maintain profession and competency.


• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

• Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to the completion of high school and six (6) months of cooking experience which provides working knowledge of food preparation and cooking methods on a large-scale basis.

*Qualifying state employees in the Upward Mobility Program may complete combinations of specific proficiency tests and training program leading to a certificate of proficiency in lieu of the stated education and experience requirements for this class. 

• Requires the ability to obtain a valid Food Service Sanitation Certificate issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health or a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification from a program accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Conference for Food Protection (CFP) within 30 days of employment.


• Requires the ability to utilize office equipment, including personal computers. 


• Requires ability to pass the IDHS background check.


• Requires ability to pass a drug screen for drugs prohibited from recreational use under Illinois Law.

*All conditions of employment listed are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.