Named 2025 Organization of the Year by the Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, we are looking to add people to our team who have a passion for making a difference. We are seeking a Part-Time Cook to join our nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives and creating positive change in our community.

Ouachita Behavioral Health and Wellness (OBHAW) is the oldest nonprofit mental health organization in the area, and we are dedicated to transforming lives and creating positive change in our community. Our team members work together to create a collaborative, empowering environment where individuals are able to heal. We are a values-driven organization and believe that these values should guide us: Openness - Balance - Honesty & Integrity - Accountability - Work Together.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a mission-driven organization.
• A collaborative and inclusive work culture that values innovation, creativity, and a shared commitment to making a difference.

Join us today in our mission to create lasting change!

OBHAW is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. If you require accommodation, please contact Human Resources at 501.620.5126.

Job Title:    Cook (part-time)

Department:    Food Services

Reports to:    Food Services Coordinator    

Status:  Part-Time

FLSA Classification:    Nonexempt

Job Summary

Prepare meals according to the planned menu which includes, but is not limited to meal preparation, documentation of meal services, cleaning food preparation area and utensils, receiving food shipment, and maintaining food inventory.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None

Essential Functions

• Plan and prepare meals according to planned menu which includes but may not be limited to meal preparation, documentation of items and amounts served, cleaning food preparation area and utensils, receiving food shipments, and maintaining food inventory.
• Practice and maintain proper sanitation, health, and safety standards in work area.
• Wash and dry kitchen laundry as needed.
• Keep attendance records on all clients for CACFP grant.
• Complete Point of Service reports on all clients for CACFP grant.
• Document meal patterns for all clients on CACFP grant.
• Understand, respect, and respond to clients with sensitivity to cultural diversity.
• Adhere to organizational policies and procedures as evidenced by:
• Staying informed of current policies and procedures, committee actions, and other information required for the functional operation of the company, researching available resources and/or asking questions of supervisor or designee as needed.
• Following company security and confidentiality policies at all times, accessing client and staff information only as needed for job duties and as approved by supervisor.
• Complying with organizational computer, social media, and internet usage policies, reporting problems, and suggesting improvements to procedures, software, and equipment.
• Adhering to work schedule and submitting requests for leave according to procedure. Unscheduled PTO/Absences (leave that is not scheduled and approved in advance) should not exceed three (3) in a 12-month period.
• Completing required annual online training (i.e., Relias) and other training required by organization or for licensure.
• Work as a member of the team as evidenced by:
• Providing exemplary customer service to clients and coworkers, receiving no more than two (2) formal complaints per year.
• Following appropriate lines of communication to report and resolve problem situations according to established guidelines, chain of command, and approved committee actions.
• Accepting constructive criticism related to performance and demonstrating acceptance by taking personal responsibility for appropriate change.
• Using appropriate emailing etiquette such as replying to emails in a timely manner, using discretion when forwarding another person's email, and using personal email accounts for nonwork-related email.
• Serving as a peer mentor for new employees as requested.
• Participating in staffing and supervision.
• Participating in at least two (2) organization or partner organization community events per year.
• Performing other work-related tasks as requested by an authorized supervisor.

Required Skills / Abilities

• Working knowledge of CACFP food grants; ability to plan and prepare meals according to these requirements.
• Working knowledge of proper food preparation and kitchen safety.
• Inventory control and supply.
• Food measurement and preparation.
• Operation and maintenance of industrial kitchen equipment.
• Technical communication and writing skills for grant applications and health department requirements.
• Working with children.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to manage sensitive and confidential situations with tact, professionalism, and diplomacy.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to use a computer for job-related requirements such as grant tracking, budgeting, etc.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to travel to the office daily, or as required by the supervisor.
• Knowledge and application of Client Rights and Responsibilities of all persons seeking services from organization.
• CPR, First Aid, Handle with Care, and Verbal De-escalation are not required for this position.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• One (1) year of related work experience preferred.
• Food Handler's Course Certificate through Arkansas Hospitality Association as required by Arkansas Health Department, or obtain upon hire.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Must have the ability to use a computer as required. Must be able to communicate with others in an understandable manner.  Must be able to operate standard office equipment. Work is both active and sedentary. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds. Regular attendance at work is a requirement of this position. Able to travel within the five-county catchment area and to conferences/training as required.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.