Lead Cook

Lead Cook

CiminoCare is a family-owned company that looks to employ caregivers that are compassionate, self-motivated, and proud to be a part of a team of professionals. Providing security, care, and assistance in a serene setting is an ideal fit for a candidate who enjoys working with seniors. Come join a growing company who has flourished by providing seniors with Old World Hospitality! Come work for a family owned company that appreciates and values your skills. Enjoy a job that makes an impact everyday!

Benefits offered to full time staff include:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off

This position is classified as Hourly/Full-time at $22.50/hr.

The Lead Cook is responsible for preparing high-quality, nutritious meals and supporting daily kitchen operations within a senior living community. This role provides direction to kitchen staff during assigned shifts, ensures compliance with food safety and sanitation standards, and contributes to a positive, resident-centered dining experience. The Lead Cook plays a key role in maintaining consistency, efficiency, and hospitality in all food service operations.

Responsibilities and duties:

• Prepare and cook meals in accordance with planned menus, standardized recipes, portion control guidelines, and resident dietary requirements
• Provide daily leadership and direction to cooks, dietary aides, and kitchen staff during assigned shifts
• Ensure meals are prepared and served on time while meeting quality, presentation, and temperature standards
• Accommodate therapeutic and modified diets, including diabetic, cardiac, low-sodium, texture-modified, and other physician-ordered dietary needs
• Monitor food quality, freshness, proper labeling, rotation, and storage in compliance with food safety standards
• Maintain compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations governing food safety and sanitation in long-term care settings
• Assist with inventory management, including ordering, receiving, stocking, and First In, First Out (FIFO) rotation practices
• Train, mentor, and support kitchen staff in food preparation, sanitation procedures, safety practices, and resident service expectations
• Ensure kitchen equipment is used safely and report maintenance needs promptly
• Collaborate with the Dining Services Director and culinary team on menu planning, seasonal menus, and special events or resident celebrations
• Support a resident-centered dining program by responding professionally to resident preferences, feedback, and special requests when appropriate
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen and food service environment at all times.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Additional responsibilities:

• Follow all facility safety programs and regulatory requirements, including OSHA standards, Title 22 regulations, and applicable state licensing requirements for senior living or assisted living environments
• Support infection control, sanitation, and food safety practices consistent with senior care standards
• Participate in emergency preparedness procedures, including fire safety, disaster response, and evacuation protocols
• Attend required training, in-service education, and staff meetings as assigned

Requirements:

• Must meet all pre-employment and ongoing health requirements, including physical examination and tuberculosis screening, as required by state regulations
• Must meet Department of Social Services (DSS) or applicable licensing agency requirements, including fingerprint clearance and criminal background checks
• Must be eligible to work in a licensed senior living or care facility and maintain compliance with all regulatory requirements
• Must be willing to submit to drug screening when required by policy or regulation
• Must maintain current First Aid certification as required by the facility
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English sufficient to perform job duties and ensure resident safety.

Key competencies:

• Leadership and team support in a hospitality setting
• Resident-centered service mindset
• Food safety and sanitation compliance
• Time management and organizational skills
• Attention to detail and quality assurance
• Communication and teamwork
• Problem-solving and adaptability
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Professionalism and dependability

Education/experience/skills:

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Previous experience as a cook, line cook, or lead cook in healthcare, senior living, hospitality, or institutional food service preferred
• Knowledge of food preparation techniques, commercial kitchen operations, and food service equipment
• Understanding of dietary restrictions and therapeutic diets in a senior care setting preferred
• Ability to work in a structured environment with regulatory compliance requirements.
• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.

Physical requirements:

• Stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Bend, stoop, reach, twist, and maintain balance while performing kitchen tasks.
• Lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Perform repetitive hand and arm movements required for food preparation.
• Work in environments with varying temperatures, including hot kitchens, ovens, and refrigerated areas.
• Operate standard kitchen equipment safely and effectively.