Cook
FORA
Fora is a nonprofit organization advancing inclusion for individuals with disabilities by building pathways to meaningful work in integrated settings, transforming lives while supporting independence and growth.
Learn more: teamfora.org
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. This position is part of the AbilityOne Program, one of the largest sources of employment in the United States for people who are blind or have significant disabilities.
Learn more: www.abilityone.gov
About Fora
Work changes everything. We make it happen.
Since 1996, we’ve connected individuals with disabilities to meaningful employment by partnering with
organizations that expect both performance and purpose. We are a multi-region workforce model
supporting operations across New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Our teams are integrated into daily operations, maintaining facilities, supporting office functions,
managing mailrooms, and more.
We operate across a wide range of services, including facilities support, administrative operations,
warehouses, call center services, and other essential functions.
At Fora, employment is more than a job. It’s a foundation for independence, confidence, and dignity,
expanding what’s possible in the workplace and beyond, and shaping how we work every day.
Position Summary
Prepares and cooks meals in accordance with menus, recipes, and dietary guidelines while maintaining food safety and sanitation standards.
Essential Responsibilities
(Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.)
- Prepare, season, and cook meals for residents and staff.
- Measure, mix, and prep ingredients following recipes.
- Maintain proper food temperatures during preparation and service.
- Plate and garnish meals before service.
- Keep kitchen, equipment, and prep areas clean and organized.
- Follow all food safety and sanitation guidelines.
- Support kitchen operations as directed by supervisor.
- Participate in supervision meetings, training, and required safety programs.
- Follow all policies outlined in the site procedures manual and Fora Employee Handbook.
- Maintain a workplace free of harassment, discrimination, and unsafe conditions.
- Report concerns regarding safety, harassment, or discrimination to a supervisor, operations manager or HR.
Administrative
- Follow daily assignments and production schedules.
- Monitor supplies and report low inventory.
- Follow PPE and safety procedures.
- Report safety, equipment, or food quality issues.
Required Qualifications
- Demonstrated commitment to Fora’s mission of creating employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
- Aspire to the highest possible standard of excellence in the performance of your job responsibilities.
- Must possess a high degree of flexibility and willingness to work changing shift hours and work locations, at times with limited notice.
- Must represent Fora in a professional and courteous manner and communicate constructively with supervisors and team.
- Must adhere to all policies and professional standards set forth by Fora and the customer, including maintaining a workplace free of harassment and discrimination.
- Must be able to excel in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent ability to prioritize, deliver top-notch service, and multi-task in a busy environment.
- Ability to understand the English language and follow instructions with minimal supervision.
- Proven ability to follow all rules, regulations, policies, and sanitary standards established by management.
Experience & Skills
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in food handling and preparation.
- Knowledge of sanitation, food safety, and kitchen operations in institutional and/or restaurant settings .
- Culinary or cooking school experience/courses preferred.
- Ability to prioritize and multitask effectively.
Physical Requirements
- Stand for long periods.
- Lift up to 50 lbs.
- Work in a kitchen environment (heat, equipment).
Work Environment
- Office building, interaction with building customers and the public.
Reasonable Accommodations
Fora is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities
throughout the application process and throughout employment.
If you require an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential
job functions, or access employment benefits, please contact Vocational Services or Human Resources
Departments.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Fora is committed to building an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with dignity and
respect.
Fora provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants in accordance with
applicable federal, state, and local laws. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color,
religion, creed, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, gender identity or expression,
sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, genetic information, marital
status, military or veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
Shift varies; must be available weekends & holidays
Shift varies; must be available weekends & holidays
Per Diem - 15 hours weekly