Job Summary:

The Community Cook reports to the Food & Beverage Director and assists in preparing meals in a safe and appetizing manner in compliance with dietary standards and food-related Community policies and procedures.

Cook Procedure:

Essential Functions:

• Prepares food items on Food & Beverage Director's daily menu for Residents within scheduled time frame.
• Keeps food service areas clean.
• Monitors inventory.
• Supervises servers in the absence of the Food & Beverage Director.
• Maintains clean, neat, and safe work environment.
• Demonstrates knowledge of kitchen equipment including but not limited to: ovens, slicers, mixers, steam tables, steamers, toasters, coffee pots, refrigerators, and freezers.
• Assures that Resident diets are being followed.
• Assures employees and Resident guest meals are accounted for on a daily basis.
• Reports to Food & Beverage Director any loss, breakage, or waste of supplies and equipment.
• Observes and communicates to Food & Beverage Director any problems or potential problems in the dietary department.
• Has the ability to work with little or no supervision.
• Has the ability to cook large quantities of food and deliver a superior product.
• Has the ability to guide and instruct others in food preparation and food serving
• Has the ability to maintain professional demeanor under stress
• Has the ability to recognize needs and help others without prompting
• Has the ability to relate well with other employees and Residents of the Community.
• Is neat, clean, and works safely.
• Maintains current cleaning list and highest standards for kitchen cleanliness.
• Respects Resident rights and adheres to Community policy on Resident care.
• Performs all other duties assigned by Food & Beverage Director.

Compliance and Safety:

• Follows all emergency procedures.
• Understands all safety policies and procedures.
• Reports on-the-job injuries to the Food & Beverage Director before the end of the work shift on the day the injury occurs.

Communication:

• Communicates effectively with Food & Beverage Director and other staff.
• Immediately advises Food & Beverage Director of any changes in physical and mental health of a Resident.
• Maintains acceptable attendance record, notifying chef if expected to be late or unable to work in accordance with Community HR policies and procedures, and follows work schedule.

Education/Experience/Licensure/Certification:

• Serv Safe Certification required.
• Has a working knowledge of rules and regulations related to health and safety in food preparation.
• Knowledge of cooking times and temperatures essential in accordance to state guidelines.
• Knowledge of various cuts of meat and seasonings.
• Demonstrates ability in a wide range of food preparation and skills.
• Experienced in dealing with seniors and their dietary needs.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English

Physical Requirements:

• Physically able to bend and reach.
• Physically able to push and pull and lift up to 40-50 pounds if necessary.
• Physically able to stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to work in a hot/humid environment for extended amounts of time.
• May be subject to burns from hot foods, cuts from knives, and falls on slippery floors if caution is not used when working.
• Can determine quality and palatability of food through taste and smell.