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Shelter Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Shelter Monitor, you help create a welcoming, structured environment where clients feel ... Basic cooking, cleaning, and computer skills for daily tasks and documentation Physical & Working ...

Assists residents staying in the Corps shelter overnight; performs client intake procedures and ... Assigns daily cooking, cleaning, and maintenance chores to clients and ensures completion of such ...

Shelter Monitor

Beaumont, TX

$45K - $49K/yr

... Shelter, located in Beaumont, TX. Job Summary Assists residents staying in the Corps shelter ... Knowledge of proper cooking methods and procedures. Ability to communicate effectively with clients ...

Shelter Monitor (7046)

El Paso, TX · On-site

$36K - $40K/yr

Assists residents staying in the Corps shelter overnight; performs client intake procedures and ... Assigns daily cooking, cleaning, and maintenance chores to clients and ensures completion of such ...

Shelter Monitor

Sherman, TX

$14.75 - $18/hr

Job Summary Assists residents staying in the Sherman Corps shelter overnight; performs client ... Knowledge of proper cooking methods and procedures. Ability to communicate effectively with clients ...

Shelter Monitor

Sherman, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Job Summary Assists residents staying in the Sherman Corps shelter overnight; performs client ... Knowledge of proper cooking methods and procedures. Ability to communicate effectively with clients ...

Shelter Monitor

Beaumont, TX · On-site

$45K - $49K/yr

... Shelter, located in Beaumont, TX. Job Summary Assists residents staying in the Corps shelter ... Knowledge of proper cooking methods and procedures. Ability to communicate effectively with clients ...

Shelter Monitor_NE-TX_602-Lodge

Mcallen, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Assists residents staying in the Corps shelter overnight; performs client intake procedures and ... Housekeeping and Chore Distribution Responsibilities (30%) Assigns daily cooking, cleaning, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Shelter Cook information

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$8

$16

$22

How much do shelter cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for shelter cook in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a shelter cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Shelter Cook, you need strong culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and experience in meal preparation for large groups, often supported by a food handler's certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and sanitation procedures is typically required. Compassion, adaptability, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for creating a positive environment and responding to the unique needs of shelter residents. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safe, nutritious meal service and fostering a supportive atmosphere in high-demand settings.

What is the difference between Shelter Cook vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectShelter CookKitchen Assistant
CredentialsFood handler's permit, basic cooking skillsNone typically required, may need food safety training
Work EnvironmentSoup kitchens, shelters, community centersSupport roles in kitchens, assisting chefs and cooks
Employer & IndustryNonprofit organizations, social servicesRestaurants, cafeterias, shelters
Job FocusPreparing meals for shelter residentsAssisting with food prep, cleaning, and basic tasks

The Shelter Cook is primarily responsible for preparing meals in shelter settings, often requiring basic food safety certifications. The Kitchen Assistant supports kitchen operations by assisting with food prep and cleaning, usually with fewer credentials. While both roles work in food service environments, the Shelter Cook has a more direct cooking role, whereas the Kitchen Assistant provides essential support to ensure smooth kitchen operations.

What are some common challenges faced by a shelter cook, and how can they be managed effectively?

Shelter Cooks often face challenges such as managing limited food supplies, accommodating diverse dietary needs, and preparing meals for large groups on a tight schedule. To handle these effectively, it's important to plan menus in advance, stay flexible with recipes, and work closely with shelter staff to ensure all residents' nutritional requirements are met. Building strong communication with volunteers and other team members also helps streamline meal preparation and service, making the kitchen run more efficiently.

What does a shelter cook do?

A Shelter Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals to individuals residing in shelters, such as homeless shelters or emergency housing facilities. Their duties often include planning menus, managing food inventory, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and ensuring meals meet dietary needs and safety standards. Shelter Cooks may also coordinate with volunteers, receive food donations, and adapt recipes based on available ingredients. They play a vital role in supporting the well-being of shelter residents by providing consistent, healthy meals in a compassionate environment.
More about Shelter Cook jobs

What cities are hiring for Shelter Cook jobs?

Cities with the most Shelter Cook job openings:

What states have the most Shelter Cook jobs?

States with the most job openings for Shelter Cook jobs include:

Infographic showing various Shelter Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

571st of 772 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Provide safety. Offer compassion. Help change lives.
The Salvation Army Emergency Shelter is seeking Shelter Monitors to help provide a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
This role is ideal for someone who leads with empathy, remains calm under pressure, and wants to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. No prior social work experience required; we'll provide the training you need to succeed.
Why This Role Matters
For individuals and families facing housing instability, the Emergency Shelter offers more than a place to sleep - it provides safety, dignity, and hope. As a Shelter Monitor, you help create a welcoming, structured environment where clients feel respected, supported, and encouraged as they work toward greater stability and self-sufficiency.
Your presence helps ensure the shelter remains a place of care, accountability, and compassion.
Position Details
Position Status: Part-time up to 19 hours/week, expected to work a minimum of 4 hours every 2 weeks
Pay Rate: $17.00/hour, plus $1.00/hour shift differential for overnight shifts
Shifts Available: Flexible scheduling with a strong need for candidates available to work overnight shifts and weekends, including holidays as required
Position Overview
Shelter Monitors play a crucial role in the daily operation of the Emergency Shelter by maintaining safety, supporting clients, and ensuring shelter rules and policies are followed with consistency and respect. This position combines supervision, documentation, basic client assistance, and light food service and custodial duties.
Key Responsibilities
  • Monitor shelter premises to ensure the safety and security of clients, visitors, and staff
  • Maintain a welcoming, supportive, and structured environment while enforcing shelter rules and policies
  • Complete client intakes, update files, and maintain accurate documentation
  • Assist clients with access to basic needs such as food, linens, and hygiene items
  • Provide emotional support, respond to client concerns, and make referrals as appropriate
  • Document incidents, safety concerns, and maintenance needs and report them to management
  • Maintain shelter journals, logs, referrals, and incident reports
  • Answer phone calls, take messages, and relay information to appropriate staff
  • Assist with light custodial duties, including cleaning common areas and restocking supplies
  • Prepare and serve meals as required
  • Participate in staff meetings and required training sessions

What We're Looking For
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Prior experience in social services, shelter work, or related fields is helpful, but not required
  • Compassionate, respectful, and nonjudgmental approach when working with individuals and families
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build trust with diverse populations
  • Ability to work independently while remaining a collaborative team member
  • Ability to remain calm, professional, and composed in stressful or sensitive situations
  • Strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment
  • Basic cooking, cleaning, and computer skills for daily tasks and documentation

Physical & Working Conditions
  • Ability to move or lift up to 25lbs regularly and up to 50lbs occasionally, with assistance or equipment
  • Ability to sit and stand for long periods of time
  • Ability to bend, squat, kneel, reach, stretch, and climb

Employee Benefits & Perks
We believe in caring for our employees just as we care for our community. When you join The Salvation Army team, you'll enjoy meaningful perks that support your well-being, growth, and sense of purpose, including:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Hearing Insurance - Comprehensive health coverage options for eligible full-time employees
  • Employer-Sponsored Pension Plan - Full-time employees can participate in The Salvation Army's pension plan, helping plan for the future while serving today
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) - We value work-life balance and encourage time to rest and recharge
  • Free Individual Kroc Center Membership - Enjoy access to fitness, aquatics, and wellness opportunities
  • Family Membership Upgrade Available - Upgrade to a family membership for just $10/month
  • Supportive Team Environment - Work alongside caring, mission-minded teammates who support one another
  • Purpose-Driven Work - Be part of a respected, faith-based organization dedicated to hope, dignity, and service
  • Skill Development - Build valuable experience in human services, crisis response, trauma-informed care, de-escalation, documentation, and client support, while developing strong communication, professionalism, and problem-solving skills
  • Pride in Impact - Know your work directly supports individuals and families in need

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is dedicated to putting faith in action by meeting physical, emotional, and spiritual needs - without discrimination. We serve with compassion, respect dignity, and work daily to rebuild lives, strengthen communities, and create lasting change.
The Quincy Area Command serves multiple counties across Illinois and Missouri, providing emergency shelter, case management, food pantry and breadline services, and housing support. The Emergency Shelter accommodates up to 20 individuals, including single adults and families, and is co-located with Family Services programs.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're looking for meaningful work where compassion and consistency truly matter, we invite you to apply today and join us in serving our community, one life at a time.
The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, minorities, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice systems, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for this position, please call Dylan Altmix, Human Resources Assistant, at 217-231-5655.
*The Salvation Army work sites are Drug & Alcohol Free Workplaces, and are totally free of the use, possession or working under the influence of illegal drugs and alcohol.
*The Salvation Army, as a church, is exempt from participation in federal and state unemployment insurance programs. Upon termination, employees are not eligible for Unemployment Compensation.

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About Salvation Army

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The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US