Cook | Full Time

Position Overview Location: 2077 S. Independence Boulevard, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23453. The Cook prepares meals according to approved menus and recipes, taking into account the special dietary needs of residents living in the community. Responsibilities In the absence of the Dining Services Director, supervise dietary staff to ensure efficient operation of the kitchen at all times. Prepare and present menu items according to standard recipes. Maintain a clean and orderly work area at all times, including floors. Participate in weekly cleaning routines planned by Dining Services Director. Report faulty equipment, broken or chipped tableware, and food trays to supervisor, and remove these items from meal service. Report incorrect refrigerator and freezer temperatures to supervisor immediately, ensuring records are taken twice per day. Ensure all leftover food is properly cooled, stored, identified, and dated. Observe good safety practices. Monitor and control portion sizes to minimize food waste. Remove frozen food items from freezer for next day preparation, and begin preparation for next day meal. Make appropriate menu substitutions when certain food items are not available, only with approval of Dining Services Director. Ensure kitchen is ready to provide meal service; if working evening shift, ensure kitchen area is clean and ready for next day operation. Take and record food temperatures three times daily. Attend required in‑service and staff meetings. Become familiar with specific requests and diets of each resident; remain alert to changes in residents’ dietary needs, likes, and dislikes. Be courteous and polite to all residents, visitors, and staff; follow confidentiality policies regarding release of resident information. Assist in training new dietary employees; conduct in‑services and training at the direction of Dining Services Director. Qualifications Must have experience in dining services. Must be Serv‑Safe certified, or be willing to complete certification within 60 days of hire. Must have a basic understanding of food service operations including familiarity with other dietary position duties. Must possess the ability to read, write, and make simple calculations. Must be able to learn quickly and apply principles learned. Must be able to follow oral and written directions. Must be experienced in food preparation, cooking, and estimating quantities of food required. Knowledgeable of principles and requirements of sanitation and safety in handling food and equipment. Must be able to stand for long periods of time and withstand temperature extremes, wet and/or humid conditions and noise. Must be able to lift 50 lbs regularly or at least eight times per shift. Must be able to carry heavy objects for 20 feet. Must be able to pull, push, grasp, and reach adequately to perform necessary cooking activities. Must be organized and work well with people as part of a team. Must wear designated uniform (including slip‑resistant footwear) during working hours and maintain good personal hygiene. Must be willing to work a flexible schedule that includes evenings, weekends, and holidays. Benefits 401k Full‑time & Part‑time Benefits Packages Training, Development & Career Laddering Great work‑life balance Flexible Scheduling EEO Statement We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. #J-18808-Ljbffr