Food Service Specialist

Employment Type: Full-Time 
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
Department: Operations
Reports To: Program Manager
Location: St. Cloud, FL 

Position Overview

The Transition House is seeking a dependable and motivated Food Service Specialist to join our team. In this role, you'll prepare and serve nutritious meals for individuals participating in our residential re-entry programs while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and customer service. This position is essential to creating a welcoming environment that supports the health and well-being of our residents.

Why Join The Transition House

At The Transition House, we believe strong teams create strong outcomes. Our work is centered on accountability, rehabilitation, and opportunity for individuals transitioning back into the community.

We are committed to supporting our employees through professional development, a collaborative work culture, and a workplace that values both mission impact and employee well-being.

Key Responsibilities

The following duties represent the primary responsibilities of this position. Additional duties may be assigned as operational needs require.

• Prepare and cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner for approximately 60–90 residents.

• Prepare hot and cold food items, including meats, vegetables, salads, sandwiches, baked goods, beverages, and desserts.

• Set up serving lines and maintain proper food temperatures in accordance with food safety standards.

• Serve meals while ensuring proper portion control.

• Replenish food, utensils, dishes, trays, beverages, and condiments during meal service.

• Monitor food quality and safely dispose of spoiled or unsafe food items.

• Clean and sanitize kitchen equipment, workstations, floors, utensils, pots, pans, and food preparation areas.

• Operate kitchen equipment safely and report maintenance or equipment concerns.

• Maintain inventory of food and kitchen supplies and notify supervisors of shortages.

• Wash dishes and service ware while maintaining sanitation standards.

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety procedures.

• Assist with training new staff as assigned.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support kitchen operations.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

Experience

• At least one (1) year of food service, commercial kitchen, cafeteria, restaurant, or institutional food preparation experience preferred.

• Experience preparing meals for large groups is highly desirable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and food presentation.

• Understanding of food safety, sanitation, and temperature control requirements.

• Ability to safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

• Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical tasks throughout the workday.

Licenses / Certifications

• ServSafe Certification required within two (2) weeks of hire.

• Valid driver's license preferred, if transportation between sites is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in correctional, residential, behavioral health, healthcare, school, or institutional food service settings.

• Experience with inventory management and food ordering.

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Work Environment

This position primarily works in a commercial kitchen within a residential re-entry program.

Responsibilities may include:

• Standing for extended periods.

• Lifting and moving food products and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Exposure to heat, steam, commercial kitchen equipment, cleaning chemicals, and loud kitchen environments.

• Working in a structured residential program serving justice-involved individuals.

Benefits

Eligible employees may receive the following benefits:

Comprehensive Benefits Include:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

• 401(k) Retirement Plan

Generous Paid Time Off:

• Up to 25 days of PTO based on tenure

• 7 Wellness Days annually

• 11 Paid Holidays plus 1 Floating Holiday

Work-Life Balance & Growth:

• Flexible scheduling options (based on operational needs)

• Professional development support

Additional Perks:

• Employee discount programs

• Referral bonuses

Culture

At The Transition House, your mental health is our top priority.

We understand that mental well-being is a vital part of maintaining a healthy and productive workplace. Our team works to create a culture of collaboration, accountability, and balance between work and home life.

We strive to provide our employees the same supportive hand that we extend to our clients. By investing in our staff, we build a stronger organization capable of delivering meaningful and lasting impact.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Transition House, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Background Screening Requirement

Employment with The Transition House may require background screening through the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse.

Applicants may obtain additional information regarding the screening process at:
https://info.flclearinghouse.com

ADA Accommodation Statement

The Transition House is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment and employment process. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process should contact Human Resources.