Food Service Worker

The work we do matters!Hiring Agency:Health & Human Services - Agency 25Location: Kearney, NEHiring Rate:$18.071Job Posting:JR2026-00026784 Food Service Worker (Open)Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed):06-30-2026Job Description:At the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney, we're not just about words – we're about action! Our team are the driving force behind the transformation, inspiring youth to believe in themselves and the endless possibilities that await them. Together, let's empower youth to embrace their strengths and chart a course to success.Why This Work MattersYou'll work alongside youth with complex behaviors on their journey toward healing, growth, and stability. Through structure, mentorship, and compassion, you’ll help youth develop the skills and mindset needed to become successful, law-abiding citizens.________________________________________Our Mission:“Help youth live better lives through effective services, giving youth the chance to become law-abiding citizens.”If you're passionate about positively influencing future generations, this is your opportunity to be part of something bigger.________________________________________What We OfferWe support the people who support our youth. Enjoy outstanding benefits, job security, and a team that feels like family.• 156% state-matched retirement — one of the best in the nation• 13 paid holidays + generous leave starting immediately• Medical, dental, and vision insurance• $20,000 employer-paid life insurance• Tuition reimbursement & professional development• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)• Fun, mission-driven, and supportive team environment• Job stability in public service________________________________________Who We areThe Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney (YRTC-K) is accredited by the American Correctional Association, owned and operated by the Department of Health and Human Services, and the State of Nebraska. YRTC-K serves male youth between the ages of 14 and just before the age of 19. All youth committed to the facility are adjudicated (ordered) by the court, committed until the age of 19 or till they complete the programming As a Food Service Worker, you will:Prepare, season, cook, and bake a variety of food items according to menus, recipes, dietary requirements, and portion guidelinesEnsure meals are prepared and served in compliance with food safety and sanitation standardsTrain and assist food service staff in food preparation, serving procedures, dishwashing, cleaning, and routine equipment maintenanceClean, maintain, and operate kitchen equipment, utensils, and food preparation areasMaintain kitchen and dining room records and documentationAssist with inventory management, including ordering, receiving, storing, and distributing food and suppliesMonitor food quality, portion control, and meal service operationsAssist with menu planning and meal preparation schedulingSupport daily kitchen operations and ensure compliance with facility policies and proceduresMay assist with scheduling work assignments and coordinating daily activities of food service staffParticipate in maintaining a safe, clean, and organized kitchen and dining environmentRequirements/Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Coursework, training and/or experience in food preparation, baking and/or kitchen operations in the food service industry or related field.Preferred QualificationsExperience in institutional, school, healthcare, correctional, or large-scale food service operationsExperience training or leading other staffKnowledge of food safety and sanitation regulationsExperience with inventory management and ordering proceduresSchedule11:30am-7:30pm w/1-2 Morning Shifts during the week alsoCompensationPay starts at $18.07/HrOtherSome positions may require applicants to be of a specific minimum age to comply with State and/or facility accreditation regulations. Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of:Food preparation and cooking techniquesBaking methods and recipe preparationFood safety, sanitation, and kitchen safety practicesSpecial diets and nutritional requirementsKitchen equipment, utensils, and food service operationsInventory control and food storage proceduresFacility policies, procedures, and emergency protocolsAbility to:Prepare a wide variety of meals and baked goodsFollow recipes, menus, and dietary requirements accuratelyTrain and guide food service staff in kitchen operationsSafely operate kitchen equipment and toolsMaintain accurate records and inventory documentationWork effectively in a fast-paced kitchen environmentFollow written and verbal instructionsCommunicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and customersLift, carry, bend, stoop, and stand for extended periodsWork in environments with varying temperatures and humidity levels If you're currently employed by the State of Nebraska, please don't apply through this external career site. Instead, log in to Workday and open the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app from your home landing page. You can access Workday anytime through the Link web page: https://link.nebraska.gov/BenefitsWe offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefitsEqual Opportunity StatementThe State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex. age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics