Dietary Aide

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Position Summary:


The Dietary Aide supports the dietary department in providing residents with nutritious, safe, and appetizing meals in accordance with facility policies, resident care plans, and regulatory requirements. This role includes food preparation assistance, meal service, kitchen sanitation, and ensuring residents’ dietary needs and preferences are met.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with meal preparation under the direction of the Cook or Dietary Manager.
• Serve meals to residents in the dining room and/or residents’ rooms, ensuring proper portion control and adherence to dietary restrictions.
• Set up dining areas, including tables, trays, condiments, and beverages, in accordance with established meal schedules.
• Clean and sanitize dishes, utensils, kitchen equipment, and food preparation areas following facility standards and state/local health codes.
• Record temperatures of food, refrigerators, and dish machines as required.
• Assist in receiving, labeling, and storing food and supplies.
• Maintain inventory of food and kitchen supplies; alert supervisor of shortages.
• Communicate effectively with residents to ensure satisfaction with meals and report any concerns to supervisor.
• Follow all infection control, safety, and sanitation guidelines.
• Participate in required training and in-services.
• Adhere to all facility policies, procedures, and regulatory compliance guidelines.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Administrator, AIC, or SIC.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Prior experience in a food service or healthcare setting preferred.
• Ability to read, write, and follow written and oral instructions in English.
• Understanding of dietary restrictions and special diets (e.g., diabetic, low-sodium, texture-modified) is a plus.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a team-oriented environment and adapt to changing resident needs.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs.

Work Environment:

• Fast-paced kitchen and dining area environment.
• Exposure to heat, sharp utensils, cleaning chemicals, and potential biohazards.
• Regular interaction with elderly residents who may have physical and cognitive limitations.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and lift throughout the shift.
• Ability to carry food trays and lift supplies.