Cook
Department: Operations / Food Services
Reports to: Director of Operations
Location: Springfield, Massachusetts
Job Type: Full-Time
About Boca Recovery Center
Founded in 2016, Boca Recovery Center is a nationally recognized addiction treatment provider specializing in substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. With locations in Florida, New Jersey, Indiana, and Massachusetts; we deliver evidence-based clinical care in a supportive, structured environment. Our team is committed to providing trauma-informed, client-centered services that promote lasting recovery.
Position Summary
The Cook is responsible for the safe preparation and distribution of high-quality, nutritious meals in a residential treatment setting. This position ensures compliance with food safety regulations and dietary needs of clients under healthcare supervision. The Cook plays a vital role in supporting client health and wellness through meal service and kitchen management.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and serve meals that meet health, safety, and dietary guidelines for adult clients.
- Accommodate special diets, including diabetic, vegetarian, and allergy-sensitive meals.
- Maintain high standards of food quality, taste, and presentation.
- Ensure proper food storage, inventory rotation, and timely ordering of perishables and dry goods.
- Monitor kitchen hygiene and enforce sanitation standards in compliance with Massachusetts state regulations.
- Inspect food and supplies upon receipt and before use to ensure quality and freshness.
- Work collaboratively with the clinical and operations teams to support client needs.
- Provide exceptional customer service in all client and staff interactions.
- Maintain cleanliness of kitchen, dining, and storage areas, including dishwashing responsibilities as needed.
- Attend required staff meetings and training sessions.
- Manage occasional special meals or event catering needs for the facility.
- Demonstrate safe lifting techniques and handle up to 50 lbs regularly.
- Perform additional culinary duties or facility-related tasks as directed by leadership.
Requirements
Education:
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Culinary training or related education is a plus.
Experience:
- Minimum 2 years in a culinary or food service role, preferably in healthcare, institutional, or high-volume kitchen settings.
Licensure & Certifications:
- Valid driver’s license (Massachusetts), required.
- ServSafe Food Handler Certification or equivalent.
- CPR Certification preferred; required within 6 months of hire.
Other Qualifications:
- Thorough understanding of food handling, sanitation, and kitchen safety.
- Ability to follow standardized recipes and dietary plans under clinical guidance.
- Professional, respectful, and team-oriented demeanor.
- Ability to work independently and respond calmly to high-stress situations.
Work Environment & Physical Demands
- Position is primarily indoors (80–90%) in a temperature-controlled kitchen and prep area.
- Must stand, walk, reach, bend, crouch, and lift throughout an 8-hour shift.
- Frequent use of kitchen equipment: stove, oven, microwave, slicer, dishwasher, telephone, utensils.
- Physical demands include lifting/carrying supplies up to 50 lbs and working in a fast-paced setting.
- Must be comfortable around food odors, noise from equipment, and time-sensitive meal preparation schedules.
Security & Compliance Requirements
- Criminal background check, reference check, and drug screening required.
- Compliance with HIPAA and facility-specific confidentiality policies is mandatory.
- Must complete pre-employment health screening in accordance with Massachusetts Department of Public Health regulations.
Benefits
Boca Recovery Center offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health Insurance
- Retirement Plans
- Disability Coverage
- Paid Time Off
- Continuing Education & Professional Development Opportunities
Join Boca Recovery Center and make a meaningful impact through expert, compassionate care in a mission-driven environment focused on recovery and wellness.