Company description

COMMUNITY COOKS is a Somerville-based nonprofit that mobilizes individuals, businesses, civic, educational, and faith-based groups to provide home-prepared food for neighbors experiencing food insecurity across Greater Boston. We work by partnering with shelters, after school programs and other frontline human service agencies that provide critical services for our neighbors. By providing home-cooked meals to our partner agencies, our goal is to free up their time to focus on their advocacy/service models and ensure those they are supporting receive the nourishment they need to meet their daily challenges. We currently rally 900+ volunteers and provide 2,400+ monthly meals to 37 partner agencies in the Greater Boston area.

Founded as an all-volunteer organization 36 years ago, Community Cooks became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2012 and now has a paid staff of six, an engaged Board of Directors, and a budget of $570,000 annually.

Job description

The Program Associate is a full time position at Community Cooks reporting to the Program Manager (PM). The Program Associate supports the Program Manager, helping to ensure our Meal Program delivers high quality services to partner agencies with the care and compassion that distinguishes the Community Cooks mission. The Program Associate works with the Program Manager to ensure the smooth daily running of our Meal Program including responsibilities in the following Key Functional Areas:

· Volunteer Coordination and Relationship Management

· Meal Coordination and Development

· Drop Off Space Management and Delivery

· Partner Program Service and Relationship Building

· Information Management and Communications

· General Admin/Outreach

As a key member of CC’s small, collaborative team, the Program Associate may be required to provide flexible support and be willing to step in wherever needed, as needed.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will be excited about working as an integral member of a small, collaborative team and be flexible, highly organized, patient, and detail-oriented while able to keep the big picture in mind. They will be committed to our mission while understanding the importance of behind-the-scenes administrative processes, systems and technology to support a thriving organization.

High comfort level with and interest in working with technology required, including proficiency with basic MS Office applications (Word, PPT and particularly Excel). We are looking for a candidate with some experience working with Salesforce or other CRM database systems who is an eager, quick learner when it comes to using new technology. Key areas of expertise include:

· Customer service and relationship management to ensure the collaborative work effort of staff, volunteers and partner agencies;

· Analysis and problem-solving to trouble-shoot operational issues, help refine systems, and perform work routines;

· Verbal and written communication using a variety of communication platforms and heavy reliance on email to conduct daily program coordination and cultivate relationships with volunteers and partner agencies;

· Technology integration to support data management and continuously improve operational effectiveness.

More specifically, the Program Associate…

· Will support our Program Manager, working together to ensure the smooth daily running of our meal delivery program including: coordinating meal deliveries and pick-ups; cultivating relationships with and acting as a point person for new volunteers; coordinating meal reminders; and handling general trouble shooting as needed.

· Will assist with the planning of special events including event volunteer appreciation and orientations.

· In partnership with our small team, will be a welcoming voice and face of our organization.

Approach to Work

Community Cooks staff take personal responsibility to demonstrate the following behaviors in the execution of job responsibilities. We’re looking for a colleague who will:

· maintain a customer-service orientation with all Community Cooks constituents

· build knowledge of the Community Cooks mission and service programs

· contribute to our inclusive workplace culture by maintaining positive relationships based on mutual trust and respect

· collaborate proactively and enthusiastically with colleagues and partners to develop and coordinate program

· demonstrate flexibility and adaptability

· communicate clearly and responsively with tone that conveys “can do” spirit

· embrace continuous learning, using feedback and available resources to improve personal and organization capability

Working Conditions and Benefits:

· This position is a FT (35 hours per week) non-exempt position with an annual salary of $45,000-$50,000.

· Comprehensive benefits package includes: Generous paid time off (15 vacation days, 2 personal wellness days, 12 holidays, 3+ bonus holidays when office is closed at year-end, and 10+ sick days per year); 80% of individual health insurance plan or the equivalent dollar amount toward family plan; 100% of dental insurance; retirement plan with 3% employer match; and professional development opportunities.

· This position requires on-site work at our Union Square Somerville Office, with some hybrid flexibility depending upon workload and organization needs. Occasional evenings or weekends may be required with comp time provided.

· The Program Associate reports directly to the Program Manager and will provide a variety of support to all Community Cooks staff.

Compensation

this position is: salaried, $35,568* - $50,000

Application instructions

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Deadline

May 13, 2026