Chef Assistant

About Twin Lakes

Twin Lakes Community is a leader in senior services, offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing on one campus. We also provide a primary care clinic, on-site therapy, EMT responders, home care, and adult day services. Serving 850 residents and supported by 450 employees, TLC is recognized among the nation's most successful nonprofit Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC).

Our team delivers person-centered care in a supportive, engaging environment where connection, dignity, and wellness matter. Every role contributes to vibrant living, engaging experiences for residents across campus. TLC offers continuing education, career growth, and flexible scheduling to support work-life balance. Full time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package. Be a part of something meaningful - join our team.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Chef Assistant supports the daily culinary operations of a the kitchen by assisting with food preparation, basic production, and service execution. This role has a focused and limited scope of responsibility and works under the direct guidance of the Executive Chef or Dining Services Director. The Chef Assistant helps maintain food quality, safety, cleanliness, and consistency while following established menus, recipes, and production standards.

This position is primarily hands-on and production-based, with minimal administrative or supervisory duties due to the size and structure of the kitchen.

Essential Duties and Responsiblites:

Food Preparation & Production

• Prepare and cook menu items according to standardized recipes and production sheets.
• Assist with daily meal production for scheduled services and special events as assigned.
• Perform basic prep work including chopping, portioning, mixing, and batch cooking.
• Ensure proper portion sizes and plate presentation within established guidelines.
• Support timely and efficient meal service.
• Assist with simple menu items and limited menu variations as directed.

Kitchen Operations Support

• Follow daily prep lists and task assignments from the Executive Chef or supervisor.
• Help set up and break down kitchen stations before and after service.
• Maintain organized and properly stocked prep and service areas.
• Assist with receiving and putting away deliveries using FIFO (First In, First Out) practices.
• Label and date all prepped and stored foods correctly.

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Follow all local, state, and company food safety and sanitation requirements.
• Maintain clean and sanitary work areas at all times.
• Properly store food at safe temperatures.
• Use safe food handling practices consistently.
• Clean and sanitize equipment, utensils, and surfaces after use.
• Assist with routine cleaning tasks and closing duties.

Equipment & Facility Care

• Safely operate basic commercial kitchen equipment.
• Report equipment issues or safety concerns promptly.
• Use knives and tools safely and correctly.
• Help maintain an orderly and hazard-free kitchen environment.

Team Support

• Work cooperatively with cooks, kitchen assistants, and service staff.
• Provide basic task support to other team members during busy periods.
• Follow direction from supervisors promptly and professionally.
• Maintain a positive and respectful attitude in a small team environment.

Limited Supervisory Duties

• May provide basic task guidance to kitchen assistants or prep staff.
• Does not typically perform scheduling, hiring, discipline, or formal evaluations.
• Refers operational or personnel issues to the Executive Chef or manager.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Culinary training or certificate helpful but not required.
• 1-3 years of basic kitchen or line cook experience preferred.
• Food Handler or ServSafe certification (or ability to obtain).
• Basic understanding of cooking methods and food safety practices.

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to follow recipes and written instructions.
• Basic knife and food prep skills.
• Ability to work in a small, fast-paced kitchen.
• Good time management and organization
• Dependable and consistent attendance.
• Team-oriented mindset.

Physical Requirements

• Stand for extended periods.
• Lift and carry up to 40-50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive motion.
• Ability to work in hot and humid kitchen conditions.

Twin Lakes Community is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to administering all employment activities without discrimination and to considering qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion (including pregnancy and related conditions), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran or military status, political affiliation, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law; we provide reasonable accommodations for religious practices and for individuals with disabilities and foster a collaborative, inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are respected and all individuals feel secure, welcome, and heard.