Cook

Job Description

Job Description

Evergreen Senior Living brings a family-owned approach and strong local roots to three communities throughout Michigan's Upper Peninsula: Evergreen Heights in Kingsford, Evergreen Meadows in Norway, and Victorian Pines in Iron Mountain. We are the region's first choice for independent and assisted living - and our teammates enjoy a healthy work-life balance, a supportive team culture, and real opportunities to grow. Learn more at evergreensl.us.   

Position Summary:

This dual-role position supports daily food service operations by performing both Cook and Dietary Aide duties as scheduled and as operational needs require. This role is expected to regularly work in both capacities to ensure consistent meal service and appropriate staffing coverage. This position requires flexibility, teamwork, and a commitment to providing safe, high-quality food service while maintaining compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations. 

Key Responsibilities:

Cook Duties:

• Prepare and cook meals according to planned menus and dietary requirements.  

• Ensure meals are served on time and at the proper temperature.  

• Follow all food safety and sanitation guidelines.  

• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen and workspace.  

• Collaborate with dietary staff and care teams to meet resident needs and preferences.  

• Assist with inventory, food ordering, and receiving deliveries.  

• Follow portion control and waste reduction practices.  

• Participate in updating service plans with new residents, diet changes, and food preference changes affecting resident tray tickets; adjust menus accordingly, update spreadsheets accordingly.  

• Modify or adapt menu items on the spot to accommodate resident preferences, allergies, dietary restrictions, or substitutions due to product availability, while ensuring nutritional standards are maintained.  

Dietary Aide Duties:

• Set up and serve meals in dining areas or resident rooms as needed  

• Assist with dishwashing, cleaning, and sanitizing kitchen tools and equipment  

• Help plate and portion food according to resident dietary needs  

• Monitor food stock and report shortages or issues to the kitchen supervisor  

• Provide friendly, respectful service to residents and staff  

• Assist with meal preparation, ensuring food is prepared and served at proper temperatures and in appropriate portions  

• Follow established safety and infection control regulations and policies  

• Report disrepair of kitchen and dietary appliances, equipment, etc.  

• Observe, note and report changes in resident eating habits, especially those on a specialized diet  

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of basic cooking techniques and kitchen equipment.  

• Ability to read and follow recipes, production sheets, and dietary guidelines.  

• Understanding of food allergies, dietary restrictions, and modified diets (e.g., pureed, soft foods).  

• Understanding of proper food handling and sanitation procedures.  

• Time management and organizational skills to prepare meals on schedule.  

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.  

• Flexibility to adapt to changing resident needs and menu updates.  

• Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment.  

• Basic math skills for measuring and portioning ingredients.  

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in food service, hospitality, or kitchen environment preferred but not required.  

• Familiarity with food handling procedures and cleaning protocols preferred (training provided).  

• Must pass background check.  

Physical Requirements:

• Capable of lifting to 30 lbs, and occasionally up to 50 lbs with assistance.  

• Frequent bending, kneeling, reaching, and climbing stairs.  

• Manual dexterity to operate cleaning tools and kitchen equipment.  

Pay:

$14.50 - $15.50 per hour 

Benefits:

• PTO (paid time off) 

• On-Demand Pay 

• Medical, Dental & Vision insurance  

• Health savings account 

• Accident, Critical Illness & Hospital Indemnity Insurance 

• Short & Long Term Disability  

• Term Life Insurance  

• 401(k) with company match 

• Employee appreciation & recognition with monthly drawings & More! 

Schedule:

• Days/ Evening Shifts  

• Part-Time  

• Rotating weekends and holidays  

Work Location: In person  

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Evergreen is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.