Prepares food and ensures meals are delivered in a timely manner. Records detailed information regarding: time of meals, meal content, number of meals served, and food temperature. Has direct contact with inmate workers; provides instruction on proper food handling and preparation; facilitates cooperation among inmate workers to ensure kitchen safety. Tracks and logs inmate activities; ensures schedules of inmate activities are completed. Oversees inmate workers to ensure worker and staff safety in a hazardous work environment; supervises handling of knives and other kitchen implements that could be used as weapons. Monitors kitchen for evidence of restricted activities as outline in the inmate rule manual and detention center policy. Follows approved menus to ensure prepared meals comply with State regulations, medical orders, nutritional and other required standards. Oversees inmate workers assigned to kitchen duty; documents infractions and refers to kitchen supervisor or manager. Oversees kitchen clean up. Complies with standards of cleanliness and health regulations and follows safety and security measures in the kitchen including daily inventory of knives and utensils. May receive deliveries. Ensures food and supplies are handled and stored properly. May operate a forklift to store and retrieve food product and supplies.

Requires high school graduation or GED. Graduation from a culinary arts program or an equivalent food prep/cook training program desired. Requires one year of experience in meal planning and food preparation in a high-volume setting.