Cook

Job Description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Cook is responsible for supporting all daily kitchen and meal service operations, including food preparation, serving, dishwashing, cleaning, and meal delivery. This role helps ensure meals are prepared and served safely, on time, and in alignment with resident dietary needs and state regulations. The Culinary Assistant upholds the values of Home, Care, and Comfort by contributing to a dining experience that is clean, welcoming, and resident-focused.

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES

Meal Preparation and Service

• Assist with food preparation according to menu instructions and directions from the Culinary Services Manager.
• Follow standardized recipes, portion guidelines, and dietary instructions.
• Serve meals in the dining room or deliver meals to residents when assigned.
• Assist residents who require help accessing or carrying meals.
• Support meal setup, serving, and cleanup.

Food Safety and Dietary Support

• Follow safe food handling, hygiene, and sanitation practices at all times.
• Label, date, and store food properly.
• Ensure meals are served at safe and appropriate temperatures.
• Communicate dietary concerns, special requests, or changes to the Culinary Services Manager.
• Assist with texture-modified or therapeutic diet preparation as directed.

Meal Preparation and Service

• Wash dishes, utensils, and equipment according to established procedures.
• Clean kitchen surfaces, equipment, and floors after meal service.
• Remove trash and recycling as assigned.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation.

Dining Room Support

• Set up dining areas before meals, including place settings and supplies.
• Clear and sanitize tables and dining spaces after meal service.
• Respond to resident needs during meal periods in a courteous and timely manner.

Resident Interaction and Customer Service

• Greet residents warmly and provide assistance with professionalism and respect.
• Report any resident concerns or feedback to the Culinary Services Manager.
• Support a welcoming and comfortable dining atmosphere.

Inventory, Supplies, and Documentation

• Notify the Culinary Services Manager of low or depleted food and supply items.
• Rotate food stock following first-in, first-out (FIFO) practices when assigned.
• Complete assigned logs or checklists as required by community policy.

Team Support

• Follow daily task lists, prep lists, and instructions from the Culinary Services Manager.
• Communicate shift updates, concerns, or issues to leadership.
• Participate in team meetings or huddles when scheduled.

Professional Conduct and Compliance

• Follow community policies, dress codes, and safety procedures.
• Use kitchen equipment safely and report malfunctioning equipment promptly.
• Maintain confidentiality and respect for resident privacy.

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to perform basic food preparation and meal service tasks.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English to complete documentation, follow care plans, and communicate with residents, families, and regulatory agencies, unless reasonable accommodation can be made.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as scheduled.
• Ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, residents, and families.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including standing for extended periods and lifting up to 50 pounds.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in food service, hospitality, or commercial kitchens.
• Experience working with older adults or in senior living settings.

ENVIRONMENT

WORK CONDITIONS

• Works in a resident-centered senior living environment including resident living areas, care spaces, and shared community spaces.
• Works in kitchen, dining areas, storage, and equipment spaces.
• May be exposed to heat, cold, humidity, noise, and cleaning chemicals.
• Experiences moderate activity and noise consistent with a dynamic community setting.
• Uses electronic systems for menus, orders, schedules, and documentation.
• Works collaboratively with leadership and staff.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Periods of sitting, computer work, and administrative tasks.
• Frequent walking, standing, bending, and movement throughout the community.
• Routine use of hands and fingers for documentation and equipment handling.
• Occasional lifting or movement of items up to 50 pounds.