Cornerstone of Hope, Inc. (COH) provides administrative and staffing services to non-profit organizations in the Western Kentucky Region. As such, COH has a Nutrition Services Specialist position available to be assigned to work at the Merryman House located in Paducah, KY.

WORK SCHEDULE: Mon - Fri, 10:30am-7:00pm

Position Summary

The Nutrition Services Specialist supports daily kitchen operations by assisting with the preparation of lunch and dinner meals for clients in a residential, trauma-informed environment. This position ensures that meals are prepared safely, efficiently, and respectfully while maintaining compliance with food safety standards and organizational policies. The Nutrition Services Specialist contributes to creating a welcoming and supportive dining environment for individuals and families receiving services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Meal Preparation & Service

• Assist with preparation of lunch and dinner meals for clients according to planned menus.
• Support menu preparation including basic food prep, portioning, and meal assembly.
• Ensure timely and consistent meal service.

Food Safety & Kitchen Operations

• Follow all kitchen safety, sanitation, and food handling procedures at all times.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen, storage, and dining areas.
• Assist with routine and scheduled cleaning tasks in accordance with health regulations.

Inventory, Deliveries & Paperwork

• Load and unload food deliveries and supply trucks as appropriate.
• Properly store food items using safe storage and rotation practices.
• Complete and maintain applicable kitchen paperwork, including temperature logs, cleaning logs, and inventory documentation.
• Notify supervisor of low inventory, damaged goods, or safety concerns.

Trauma-Informed & Team-Based Practices

• Interact with clients in a respectful, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed manner.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries in a residential setting.
• Work collaboratively with kitchen staff and other departments to support overall program operations.

Other Duties

• Perform additional duties as assigned to support kitchen and organizational needs.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in food service, institutional kitchens, or residential settings preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of basic food safety and sanitation practices.
• Ability to follow menus, instructions, and safety protocols accurately.
• Strong attention to cleanliness, organization, and detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Dependable, punctual, and able to maintain confidentiality.

Certifications

• Food Handler’s Permit or ServSafe certification required or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position:

• Frequent standing and walking throughout the shift.
• Repeated bending, reaching, and lifting.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move items weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to work in a kitchen environment with exposure to heat, cold, steam, sharp objects, and cleaning chemicals.

Work Environment

• Primarily works in a commercial kitchen within a residential shelter setting.
• May involve exposure to hot surfaces, sharp utensils, and cleaning agents.
• Requires adherence to safety procedures and use of personal protective equipment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.