About the role
Job Title: Chef Department: Volunteer Services Reports To: Culinary Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Date Revised: August 2026
Job Purpose
The Chef supports the Culinary Manager in overseeing the day-to-day kitchen operations and meal programs at the North Druid Hills House (NDH) location of Ronald McDonald House Atlanta. This role assists in planning and preparing balanced, nutritious meals while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and sanitation. The Chef also coordinates and mentors meal volunteers and helps deliver educational and engaging culinary experiences for families and guests. This position requires an individual who works independently, communicates effectively, and fosters positive relationships with volunteers, donors, and staff. Primary work hours are 11:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. but also must be flexible and able to work weekend hours, when necessary.
Essential Functions
* Assist the Culinary Manager in managing kitchen operations and executing a nutritious, balanced meal program aligned with Ronald McDonald House Atlanta’s nutrition and safety standards. * Lead and support meal volunteer groups in meal preparation, food safety protocols, and serving procedures. * Prepare meals for families when volunteer groups are unavailable, including implementing a no-waste policy and managing “grab-and-go” meal options for departing families.
* Maintain clean, organized, and well-stocked kitchens, pantries, and storage areas at the NDH location.
* Manage food inventory, place grocery orders, and track food costs to ensure budget adherence.
* Collaborate with the Director of Volunteer Services & External Relationships and the Volunteer Services Coordinators to effectively schedule and engage meal volunteers.
* Deliver cooking classes, meal demonstrations, and other culinary education events to enhance guest and donor engagement. * Ensure compliance with all Ronald McDonald House Atlanta policies, including food safety certifications, health codes, and guest confidentiality. * Maintain accurate documentation and reports related to meal preparation, volunteer hours, and budget tracking. * Communicate clearly and professionally with families, volunteers, donors, and team members. * Support special culinary initiatives and projects as directed by the Culinary Manager or Director of Innovative Family Programs and Services.
Qualifications
Required:
* Associate degree or equivalent professional experience in culinary arts, food science, nutrition, or related fields. * Minimum one year of experience in food service, restaurant operations, health coaching, nutrition, or a related area. * Current SERVSAFE certification or ability to obtain certification immediately upon hire. * Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple responsibilities efficiently. * Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse groups of volunteers and guests. * Demonstrated commitment to Ronald McDonald McDonald House Atlanta’s mission and core values. * Dependable, flexible, and able to work occasional evenings or weekends as required. * Proficiency with Microsoft Office, scheduling software, and meal program databases preferred.
Preferred:
* Experience in volunteer coordination and donor relations. * Background in nutrition education or culinary instruction.
Key Competencies
* Independent problem-solving and decision-making * Clear, respectful communication * Leadership and team collaboration * Attention to detail and organizational skills * Positive attitude and guest-focused approach * Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic environment
Working Conditions & Physical Demands
* Must be able to lift and transport up to 50 pounds. * Ability to stand for extended periods, move throughout the kitchen and dining areas, and climb stairs as needed. * Must maintain awareness of potential food safety hazards and adhere to sanitation standards.
Disclaimer
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties as needed due to business necessity or organizational changes.
Benefits:
We are proud to offer comprehensive coverage for our full-time employees. The following benefits are provided with premiums covered at 100% by the company for employees only coverage:
* * Medical Insurance * Vision Insurance * Dental Insurance * Long-Term Disability Insurance * Life Insurance
Additional benefits include:
* * Paid Time Off (PTO) * 11 Paid Holidays Annually * 403(b) Retirement Plan * Cell Phone reimbursement
Disclaimer
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties as needed due to business necessity or organizational changes.