What are the responsibilities and job description for the NUTRITIONAL SERVICES COOK position at FAIRFIELD MEMORIAL HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION?
NATURE OF WORK
Fairfield Memorial Hospital is seeking a dependable, team‑oriented Cook to support the daily operations of the Nutritional Services Department. The Cook plays a vital role in preparing high‑quality meals for patients, residents, employees, and guests while ensuring compliance with dietary requirements, safety standards, and established recipes. This position is responsible for preparing hot foods, following portion control guidelines, maintaining cleanliness, and supporting tray line operations. The Cook contributes directly to FMH’s commitment to excellent patient care by providing nutritious meals, maintaining a sanitary work environment, and demonstrating professionalism, compassion, and strong customer service skills.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Prepare hot foods for patients, residents, employees, and guests, including modified diets, with minimal waste
- Work on the tray line to assemble patient and resident trays using proper portion control
- Wash steam table pans after each meal and maintain a clean, orderly work area
- Store frozen foods properly and ensure all food items are kept off the floor
- Take, record, and correct food temperatures for all items on the tray line
- Review daily menus and production sheets; plan appropriately for upcoming meals
- Secure the department before leaving, ensuring equipment is off and areas are locked
- Answer telephone calls as needed
- Maintain excellent attendance and reliability
- Perform additional duties as assigned and work alternate shifts when needed
- Maintain confidentiality of patient and hospital information
- Demonstrate professionalism in dress, hygiene, and conduct
- Promote teamwork, positive communication, and conflict resolution
- Complete work assignments promptly and adapt to changes in routines or processes
COMPENSATION: $18.00 per hour
SCHEDULE: As Needed
BENEFITS
- 403(b) Retirement Plan
- Paid Leave for All Workers Act Leave (1 hour for every 40 hours worked)
WHAT FMH HAS TO OFFER
Fairfield Memorial Hospital is a mission focused healthcare organization dedicated to providing exceptional care to the patients and families we serve, with a strong commitment to improving the health and well‑being of our community through compassionate service, clinical excellence, and a supportive culture that empowers employees to do their best work. We value teamwork, professional growth, and a positive work environment where every team member plays a meaningful role in advancing our mission. FMH offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well‑being, and long‑term professional development, and we strive to ensure employees feel valued, supported, and equipped to make a meaningful impact for the communities of Southern Illinois. FMH is a drug‑free workplace, and all candidates must complete a pre‑employment drug screening in accordance with Illinois law. We proudly uphold Equal Opportunity Employment practices and welcome applicants of all backgrounds without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.
EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS
- Required: High School Diploma or equivalent;
EXPERIENCE
- Preferred: Previous experience in food service, healthcare dietary operations, or cooking in an institutional setting.
SKILLS
- Ability to follow standard recipes, prepare hot foods, and meet dietary and modified diet requirements while maintaining safe food handling practices
- Consistently apply portion guidelines for patient, resident, and employee meals
- Maintain a clean, organized work area; properly wash equipment; adhere to infection control and safety standards
- Accurately take, record, and correct food temperatures to ensure compliance with regulatory and dietary requirements
- Plan and prepare meals efficiently, manage multiple tasks, and meet meal service deadlines
- Work collaboratively with dietary staff, nursing, and other departments; communicate effectively and professionally
- Adjust to changing menus, patient needs, staffing levels, and department routines
- Demonstrate compassion, courtesy, and professionalism when interacting with patients, residents, visitors, and coworkers
- Maintain dependable attendance, follow instructions, and complete assignments promptly
Salary : $18