Who We Are For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here. Mission Statement The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world. Job Description: Position Purpose summary: The Cook at The Salvation Army's Nanaimo New Hope Centre plays a pivotal role in fulfilling our mission to serve and support individuals and families in need within our community. This position is responsible for creating nourishing and balanced meals that provide sustenance, warmth, and comfort to those who rely on our services. The Cook ensures that the kitchen operates efficiently, meals are prepared to high standards, and dietary requirements are met while maintaining a strong commitment to food safety and community engagement. Accountabilities: The cook, in following the menus established by the Food Services Manager, must be skilled and efficient in planning the utilization of all food products such as leftovers, donations, types and varieties of meals to be served. Perform all the functions of a cook in preparation of a wide variety of foods, portions cooked, carving of meats, vegetable servings and overall kitchen practices. Maintain a wholesome menu selection presenting a variety of food selections and appetizing in presentation. Assist and coordinate preparation for special luncheons and events as requested by the Manager. Maintain a professional atmosphere and control of the kitchen, dining room and equipment. Have a solid understanding of food and product inventory control and associated duties, including ordering and recommending supplies required. Ensure kitchen and dining room are maintained at a high level of cleanliness according to health standards and the standards of NHC. Direct and instruct kitchen helpers and volunteers. Understand impact of donations and supply and demand. Maintain organization of food items with attention to cleanliness and ease of access, and rotating stock for effective use. Receive and inspect incoming orders of food for quantity and quality, ensuring proper storage in appropriate areas, e.g. storerooms, coolers, freezers. May be assigned other duties. CRITICAL RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT Governance Boards and Councils: None Internal: Food Services Manager, Kitchen Staff, Other Staff, and Volunteers. External: Community Stakeholders MANAGERIAL/Technical Leadership RESPONSIBILITY: Reports directly to: Food Services Manager. Direct reports for this position: n/a FINANCIAL AND MATERIALS MANAGEMENT: None. WORKING CONDITIONS: Works in a Kitchen environment, with the associated risks and hazards. The above responsibilities must be discharged in accordance with The Salvation Army’s Mission Statement, in a professional manner, exemplifying Christian standards of conduct. education and experience Qualifications: Education, Qualifications and Certifications: Must have High School diploma or equivalent. Minimum of 1 year of related cook/food service education. Valid Food Safe Certification required. Clear TB Skin Test required. Criminal record clearance through the BC Criminal Records Review Program required. Security clearance through Correctional Services Canada required. Valid Occupational First Aid Level 1 or equivalent an asset. Valid Class 5 Driver's License an asset. Valid WHIMS certificate an asset. Completion of NHC mandatory, especially ARMATUS abuse training, required. Experience and Skilled Knowledge Requirements Must have at least two (2) years of experience as a Cook in a professional kitchen. Proficiency in preparing, cooking, and presenting a wide range of dishes. Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices to ensure the safe handling and storage of food. Ability to manage food inventory efficiently to minimize waste and ensure that food supplies are available as needed. Basic budgeting skills to help manage food costs and allocate resources effectively. Proficiency in a wide range of cooking techniques, such as baking, grilling, sautéing, and stewing. Skills and Capabilities (examples provided below): Attention to detail, problem solving and analytical skills. Must possess administrative skills and be computer literate or be willing to train. Must be calm in busy and sometimes stressful situations. Must be well organized. Effective time management skills to ensure that meals are prepared and served on time. Good communication skills to work with kitchen staff, volunteers, and coordinate with other departments within the organization. Ability to adapt to changing circumstances, such as varying food donations, and still produce high-quality meals. Must be presentable in appearance in accordance with NHC standards. The ability to work as part of a team, as well as independently, to ensure the kitchen's smooth operation. Pay rate according to Collective Agreement language. 5% pay increase effective August, 2025. Compensation: The target hiring range for this position is $24.41 to $24.66 with a maximum of $24.91. Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role. The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email Recruitment.Accommodations@salvationarmy.ca if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you. Our employees are motivated by the fulfillment and meaning they experience as they serve people in need across Canada and Bermuda. Whether at the front-lines or in a support role, as part of our team you’ll work alongside a diverse and skilled group of purpose-driven professionals, empowered to provide exceptional service. We deeply value the relationships we build in the workplace, as well as the opportunities given to us such as the potential to experience flexibility at work, receive health and dental benefits, paid vacation and sick time, RRSP’s, as well as to expand our skills and advance our careers as together we build a culture of continuous learning and growth. If you're looking for a career that allows you to find meaning, make an impact, and one that challenges you to grow and become the best version of yourself, join our dynamic team. There is a place for everyone to belong at The Salvation Army.
