Kitchen Service, Cook, Dietary, Culinary

Reports Directly to: Head of Culinary Services

 

The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, high-quality meals for residents in accordance with posted menus, dietary needs, and facility policies. The Cook ensures food safety, cleanliness, and sanitation standards are consistently met and maintained. This individual plays a vital role in promoting resident health, comfort, and satisfaction by providing well-prepared meals in a respectful and timely manner.

 

The Cook shall be at least eighteen (18) years of age, have a criminal clearance prior to presence in the facility, and possess a high school diploma (or equivalent, such as a General Education Development certificate). The Cook will also have passed a physical and have a chest x-ray (or an intradermal test) performed by a physician within the prior six months of employment. The physician’s report shall indicate physical qualification to perform duties and no health conditions that would create a hazard to self, staff, or residents.

 

The other requirements of the Cook are:

1. Previous experience in food preparation, preferably in an assisted living or healthcare environment.

2. Understanding of safe food handling, sanitation, and infection control practices.

3. Ability to read and follow standardized recipes and portion guidelines.

4. Knowledge of special diets, textures, and dietary restrictions common to elderly residents.

5. Ability to work efficiently under time constraints and adjust meals as needed.

6. Good character, reliability, and a strong work ethic. 

 

Basic First Aid certification is preferred. Physical ability to perform housekeeping tasks, including lifting up to 30 lbs., bending, stooping, standing for long periods, and operating cleaning equipment, is essential. The Cookmust also be able to communicate effectively with residents, staff, and supervisors. 

 

The Housekeeper shall have a criminal record clearance prior to presence in the facility. The Cookwill have a TB test clearance within 7 days of employment and the health screening completed within 7 days of employment. 

• Prepare breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner meals according to the facility menu and posted schedule.

• Follow dietary guidelines for residents with special needs, including diabetic, low-sodium, and mechanically altered diets.

• Maintain kitchen cleanliness and sanitation, including work surfaces, appliances, utensils, and food storage areas.

• Ensure all food is stored, labeled, and rotated according to food safety regulations.

• Cook meals in a timely manner and ensure proper food temperatures are maintained and recorded.

• Assist with portioning and plating of meals to ensure consistency and compliance with menu plans.

• Help manage kitchen inventory, track food usage, and notify the Culinary Services Director or designated staff when supplies need to be ordered.

• Minimize food waste and ensure cost-effective meal preparation.

• Assist with cleaning dishes, trays, and kitchen equipment as needed.

• Coordinate with caregivers and med techs to meet individual resident needs during mealtimes.

• Maintain a positive and professional attitude in interactions with residents and staff.

• Support meal service for special occasions or events as requested.

• Comply with all local, state, and federal regulations regarding food service in a licensed care setting.

• Attend in-service training and staff meetings as required.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Culinary Services Director. 

 

 

Education: