COOK

About Company:

Minnie Hamilton Health System is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) providing comprehensive, vertically integrated healthcare services to rural communities across West Virginia. With locations in Grantsville, Glenville, Arnoldsburg, and Coplin Health in Elizabeth, and as an affiliate of Vandalia Health, our system includes a critical access hospital, community health center, school-based health center sites, a nursing home unit, a swing bed unit, oral health care, rural health clinics, and 340B pharmacy services. We continue to evolve to meet the needs of our region, offering high-quality care in a setting surrounded by nature, outdoor recreation, and Dark Skies stargazing. At Minnie Hamilton, we’re proud to be a trusted healthcare partner, committed to improving lives and strengthening our community. Come join our team and see for yourself!

About the Role:

The Cook at Critical Access Hospital - Grantsville (CAHGR) plays a vital role in delivering nutritious, safe, and high-quality meals to patients, staff, and visitors. This position ensures that all food preparation and production meet established health and safety standards while accommodating dietary restrictions and preferences. The Cook collaborates closely with the Dietary Manager and kitchen team to maintain efficient kitchen operations and uphold the hospital’s commitment to patient care through excellent food service. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are essential to successfully manage food preparation tasks and maintain cleanliness. Ultimately, this role contributes significantly to the overall patient experience and well-being by providing meals that support recovery and satisfaction.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Proven experience in food preparation and production in a professional kitchen setting.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently to understand recipes, safety instructions, and communicate with team members.
• Demonstrated manual dexterity and physical stamina to stand for extended periods, climb stairs, and move objects as required.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and proper sanitation practices.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a healthcare or hospital food service environment.
• Certification in food safety or culinary arts.
• Familiarity with specialized dietary needs such as diabetic, low sodium, or allergen-free meal preparation.
• Additional language skills to support diverse patient populations.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and cook meals according to hospital menus, dietary guidelines, and patient needs.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, including proper storage of food items and sanitation of equipment.
• Assist the Dietary Manager in planning and executing daily food production schedules to ensure timely meal service.
• Follow all food safety regulations and hospital policies to prevent contamination and ensure patient safety.
• Communicate effectively with kitchen staff and other hospital departments to coordinate meal delivery and address special dietary requests.
• Must be a Team Player who is willing to help with all tasks and duties in the kitchen and to help all co-workers. 

Skills:

The required skills such as food preparation, manual dexterity, and food production are essential for efficiently preparing meals that meet hospital standards and patient needs. Speaking and reading English fluently enables clear communication with kitchen staff and understanding of recipes and safety protocols. Physical abilities like standing for extended periods, climbing stairs, and moving objects are necessary to navigate the kitchen environment and handle ingredients and equipment safely. Preferred skills, including experience with specialized diets and food safety certification, enhance the ability to provide tailored meal options and maintain compliance with health regulations. Together, these skills ensure the Cook can contribute effectively to a collaborative kitchen team focused on delivering high-quality nutrition in a healthcare setting.