Cook

Job Summary:

The Cook is responsible for providing exceptional culinary services to residents. This role includes planning and preparing meals, maintaining sanitary conditions, and ensuring compliance with health regulations while upholding residents' comfort, privacy, and dignity.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Meal Planning and Preparation (30%)
   • Plan food production to coordinate with meal serving hours, ensuring food quality, temperature, and appearance are preserved.
   • Prepare food according to standardized recipes and special diet orders.
   • Complete food temperature checks before service to ensure safety and quality.
2. Sanitation and Safety Compliance (20%)
   • Maintain required sanitary conditions to meet health regulations.
   • Store food properly and safely, marking the date and item.
3. Diet Management and Documentation (15%)
   • Process diet changes and new diets as directed by healthcare professionals.
   • Assist in inventory management, including receiving and stocking food and supplies.
   • Document dietary information accurately and timely.
4. Customer Service and Resident Interaction (10%)
   • Provide exceptional customer service and high-quality care by showing compassion and empathy towards residents and their families.
   • Interact with residents to address dietary preferences and needs, ensuring a positive dining experience.
5. Leadership and Team Support (10%)
   • Provide leadership in the kitchen in the absence of the Culinary & Hospitality Director and/or Supervisor.
   • Assist in training and supporting kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations.
   • Report environmental deficiencies such as lighting issues, equipment problems, or items in need of repair.
6. Compliance and Training (10%)
   • Follow infection control guidelines and maintain privacy rules and regulations as per HIPAA.
   • Attend all meetings and complete in-services and mandatory training.
7. Other Duties as Assigned (5%)

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: Previous experience in a culinary setting or long-term care facility preferred.
• Skills: Strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards, and ability to work as part of a team.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds.
• Capacity to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks and physical activities, such as bending, kneeling, and reaching.
• Must be able to work various shifts, including weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
• Work is performed in a healthcare setting with potential exposure to infectious diseases, bodily fluids, and chemicals.
• Must be able to work various shifts, including weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.