ON CALL COOK

General Summary

The On-Call Cook is responsible for preparing and/or directing the preparation of food being served, complying with all applicable sanitation, health and hygiene standards.  Plans food production to coordinate with meal serving hours so that excellence, quality, temperature and appearance of food are preserved.  The Cook must monitor appropriate use of facility supplies and equipment to minimize loss and waste. The Cook will be working alongside participants of an On-the-Job training program and, when necessary, must direct and mentor program participants to safely and efficiently complete food preparation, serving, and sanitation tasks.  

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions)

• Prepare ingredients to use in cooking (chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc.)
• Cook menu items in cooperation with the rest of kitchen staff
• Ensure great presentation by dressing dishes before they are served
• Ensure compliance with sanitation and safety regulations
• Store food properly and safely and stock inventory appropriately
• Set up and break down workstation with all necessary supplies
• Report necessary equipment repair and maintenance to Kitchen Manager
• Correctly prepare all food served following standard and special recipes Maintains daily production records 
• Maintain a positive and professional approach with coworkers and customers
• May be asked to work overtime 
• Support the mission, goals and objectives of Meals on Wheels People, Inc. 
• Other duties as assigned

Education & Knowledge

• High School Diploma or Equivalent required; Associate Degree or certification in Culinary Arts preferred

• Knowledge of various cooking procedures and methods

• Current Food Handler’s card or ability to obtain one upon hire
• Current ServSafe certification or ability to obtain certification within 18 months of hire
• Strong knowledge of local, state and federal food sanitation standards

Skills, Abilities & Experience

• Minimum one-year experience in food service cooking position
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team environment
• Proven customer service skills
• Experience working with diverse populations, including aging, minority and low-income populations 
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Proven recordkeeping and organizational skills
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs and 20-30lbs repetitively
• Passion for serving seniors in our community

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

Fast paced kitchen environment, with significant people interaction. Ability to lift a minimum of 50lbs and 20-30lbs repetitively.  Frequent reaching, bending, stooping and grasping.  Frequent use of knives and cooking utensils, stove, oven and other kitchen equipment. Must pass drug screen and criminal background check.

At Will Employment

Meals on Wheels People is an “employment at will” organization, which means either the employee or Meals on Wheels People may terminate the employment relationship at any time for any reason and with or without notice.  No supervisor or managerial person has the authority to alter this relationship other than the Executive Director, and any such change must be in writing.