Cook Specialist Series
Learn more about what it takes to join the CCC in the role of Cook Specialist 1 and 2.
What is a Cook Specialist?
A Cook Specialist 1 and 2 serves as a kitchen crew lead at California Conservation Corps residential centers. Cook Specialists support Supervising Cooks in keep a CCC centers kitchen running smoothly and meals being delivered on time and in the quantity necessary.
Cook Specialists will often lead CCC Culinary Corpsmembers in providing food service at breakfast and dinner. Cook Specialists work directly with the Supervising Cook and Corpsmembers in preparing, cooking, and dispensing meals to CCC Corpsmembers, staff, and occasionally partners from other agencies when a center is hosting crews during an emergency.
Cook Specialists perform a variety of tasks in the kitchen. Cook Specialist 2’s may also instruct, lead, and supervisor Corpsmembers who are part of the CCC’s Culinary Program.
How to Qualify
The Cook Specialist 1 and 2 exams are offered by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or CAL FIRE, and are utilized by the CCC. The exams are administered on a continuous basis with quarterly cutoff dates every three months.
If you answer yes, to the questions below, you could qualify for the Cook Specialist 1 position:
- Do you have a high school diploma or equivalency?
- Do you have a year of experience in preparing and cooking a varied menu?
- Do you have six months of attending a recognized trade school or training program for cooks?
- Do you have a year’s experience as a Food Service Technician 1?
If you answer yes, to the questions below, you could qualify for the Cook Specialist 2 position:
- Do you have two years experience as a Cook Specialist 1?
- Do you have experience preparing food for at least 250 people?
- Have you personally prepared completes breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for 50 or more persons per meal?
- Have you received full-time training by a recognized trade school for cooks and bakers?
Position Benefits
The Cook Specialist positions are a great opportunity for those with cooking experience looking to mentor and train young adults looking to tackle a career in culinary arts.
In this role you will be able to start and grow your civil service career. You’ll get hands-on experience mentoring and training Corpsmembers who enroll to join the CCC Culinary Program at one of the CCC’s residential centers.
If you enjoy teaching, mentoring, and cooking delicious meals, becoming a Cook Specialist may be right for you! Where else can you get the hands-on experience of leading Corpsmembers as they work their way through challenges and growth opportunities both personally and professionally.
Salary Range
$42,972 to $52,656 annually – Cook Specialist 1
$47,952 to $58,884 annually – Cook Specialist 2
PROMOTIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Service as a Cook Specialist 1 will qualify you for promotional opportunities within the California Conservation Corps as a Cook Specialist 2 and Supervising Cook 1.
Two years of experience as a Cook Specialist 1 meets the minimum qualifications for a promotion to Cook Specialist 2.
Two years of experience as a Cook Specialist 2 meets the minimum qualifications for a promotion to Supervising Cook 1.
Career Consultation
Do you have questions about this position?
Are you interested in a one-on-one consultation with a member of our CCC Talent Acquisition team?
Let us know how we can help you find your fit in the CCC!
careers@ccc.ca.gov
