Cook - PT (56118)

YSS is hungry — and we’re looking for a dependable, energetic Part-Time Cook to join the Nutrition Services team at our Youth Opportunity Center in Des Moines. Around here, food is more than just a meal — it’s a chance to help someone feel at home. In this role, you’ll do more than cook meals — you’ll help create comfort, connection, and care for youth and program participants each day. You’ll help bring our meal program to life through food prep, cooking, menu support, kitchen organization, inventory, and food donation coordination — all while keeping food safety, sanitation, and quality top priority. From the first chopped onion to the last clean pan, you’ll help keep the kitchen running smoothly and the meals coming out hot, nutritious, and delicious. One minute you might be plating lunch for a full dining room, the next organizing donations or teaching basic kitchen skills to participants. No two days are exactly the same — and that’s part of the fun. While this role doesn’t provide direct care to youth, you’ll work around youth regularly and help create the kind of safe, welcoming environment where people feel respected, supported, and cared for. The expected schedule for this position is Monday - Thursday, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm . What You'll Do... Prepare and serve nutritious, high-quality meals that meet YSS standards and program guidelines Assist with menu planning, food prep, inventory, food storage, and kitchen organization Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary kitchen, dining, and prep environment Follow food safety, sanitation, risk management, and workplace safety procedures at all times Support efficient meal production, service, and distribution operations Complete records, logs, and documentation related to food safety, licensing, and program compliance Help manage supplies and work within budget expectations Collaborate with staff, volunteers, and participants during meal preparation and service Help teach participants basic cooking, kitchen, and food preparation skills Assist with campus gardens, greenhouses, and other nutrition-related initiatives as needed Participate in trainings, team meetings, and daily kitchen operations This is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time. Who You Are... You’re the kind of person who can keep a kitchen moving , a meal tasting great, and your cool during the lunch rush. You’re organized, dependable, and not afraid to jump in wherever needed — whether that’s prepping ingredients, serving meals, or saving the day when someone forgot to thaw the chicken. You love good food, teamwork, and the satisfaction of feeding people well. Most importantly, you know a great meal can turn someone’s whole day around. What We Provide... We invest in people—because when you thrive, so do the communities we serve. At YSS , you’ll find meaningful work, strong support, and benefits designed for real life. Supportive leadership team and mission-driven culture Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees Flu shots and mental health support resources Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualified employer