Did you know that Goodwill operates on a military base? Goodwill Great Lakes (GWGL) provides food service, administrative, logistic services, and laundry to both Sailors and Recruits at the Navy's only boot camp—Naval Station Great Lakes in Great Lakes, Illinois.
In 2020, Goodwill staff served over 10 million meals to Sailors and Recruits. The best part? Our team is growing! Right now, we’re hiring Cooks, Assistant Food Service Managers, Food Service Workers, and Crew Leaders! Want to know what it is like to work on staff? This month, meet Goodwill Great Lakes Cook, Jasmine, who shares her experience below!
How long have you worked for Goodwill Great Lakes?
This is my seventh year here! I started as a Food Service Worker and have been a Cook for over five years.
What type of training did you receive?
When I started at Goodwill Great Lakes, we practiced training in an empty galley for about a week. They showed us how to use kettles, how to handle pans and ovens, and where everything is located. After that, we shadowed other Cooks for about a month. That is when we learned how to cook various meals and handle the food.
Was it hard to learn?
Not at all. The only difficult thing about it initially is trying to keep up and trying to remember the various temperatures of the food, but you catch on quickly!
How would you describe your job to someone that is applying and wants to work here?
In the cooking area, the Cooks split up the various jobs throughout the day. We start by prepping the food, cooking it, and getting it ready to be served. It’s a very fast-paced job. What helps is learning how to communicate with your coworkers. I try to learn their attitudes and habits. Sanitization is taken very strictly at GWGL. Washing hands, wearing gloves and hairnets, and ensuring utensils and surfaces are cleaned properly is essential.
What do you like most about your job?
I like the people. My coworkers make me want to come to work and have a good day.
What challenges do you face in your job?
The biggest challenge is that we are short-staffed right now, which makes it a little stressful for everyone.
What do you like most about working for Goodwill Great Lakes?
I love the structure of it. Amongst the employees, it’s fair here. Everyone does their fair share and knows what is expected of them.
How does your job impact the Recruit and Sailor experiences here?
This is the one place that they can take a break and relax. All they want is a hot plate of food and some down time, so it’s nice to see them take a break and laugh.
What is the atmosphere like working here?
In the kitchen, it can be hectic – lively, busy, steady. Everyone knows their place. We work like a team, always.
Why would you recommend working for Goodwill Great Lakes?
GWGL has a unique environment to be able to learn and grow. There are plenty of opportunities here to gain a lot of experience and get on your feet!
Ready to start your career with a mission? See what job opportunities we have available and apply today!
