Cook

The compensation range listed reflects the range Northern Light Health anticipates relying on in setting the wages for the position. The range may not necessarily include all additional compensation elements available, such as differentials, incentive programs and benefits.

Northern Light Mercy Hospital

Department: Food and Nutrition Services

Position is located: Mercy Fore River

Work Type: Full Time

Hours Per Week: 40.00

Work Schedule: Variable

Exempt: No

Summary:

Under the supervision of the Sous Chef, the Cook prepares and cooks all food items for patient service, cafeteria, and special functions. The incumbent performs duties and tasks in accordance with performance standards established for the job. The incumbent may have access to highly confidential patient, employee and/or organizational proprietary information, and must handle and protect the information in accordance with hospital and system policies, HIPAA requirements and the highest level of ethical standards. The incumbent is responsible for reporting all security events, potential events, or other security risks to the organization. The incumbent is responsible for participation in and completion of all patient safety initiatives appropriate to the position, and conducts all job responsibilities according to the Mission and Values of Northern Light Health.

Responsibilities:

• Prepares food which is palatable and appetizing in appearance.

• Prepares and cooks food items for patient service, cafeteria, special functions and special diets.

• Participates with Sous Chef in the development of serving and food presentation standards for patient meals, functions, and cafeteria menu.

• Demonstrates knowledge of and shows ability to understand the preparation methods of foods served on therapeutic diets.

• Follows written and oral directions accurately.

• Prepares food within the assigned meal schedules.

• Prepares recipes and food accurately while avoiding food waste.

• Adheres to proper cooking methods, written menus, standard recipe procedures and safety guidelines.

• Minimizes food waste by following portion control guidelines and proper food production procedures.

• Demonstrates sanitary and safe food handling techniques.

• Performs and implements HAACP guidelines when working with food at all stages of production.

• Maintains proper food temperatures during cooking, cooling, and storing.

• Labels and dates items prepared and/or stored.

• Demonstrates proper care and use of service equipment and work area.

• Uses the fire extinguisher correctly.

• Reports immediately any defective or unsafe equipment and/or conditions to supervisor.

• Maintains work area and support equipment in a safe and sanitary condition and participates in general cleaning.

• Follows policies and procedures for infection control and facility safety in accordance with regulatory guidelines.

• Works cooperatively with food service staff and other departments.

• Picks up / returns department keys from / to appropriate area. Unlocks / locks all applicable secured areas of the kitchen and cafeteria.

• Oversees and directs employees assigned to morning line set-up in the absence of the manager on duty; staffs the line and ensures its proper operation.

• Oversees and directs closing duties of the employees assigned to the evening kitchen operation in the absence of the manager on duty; ensures all duties are completed utilizing the closing checklist.

• Accepts assigned duties in a cooperative manner.

• Adheres to attendance and punctuality expectations.

• Accepts responsibility for further developing professional learning needs

• Participates in continuing education programs for professional learning needs.

• Participates in facility Quality Improvement (QI)/Improving Organizational Performance (IOP) Program as determined by Production Management.

• Attends scheduled Sanitation Training and other programs as required or assigned.

• Demonstrates behaviors consistent with organizational mission, goals and policies.

• Demonstrates practices which keep all medical record information protected and confidential.

• Follows and adheres to Patient Rights policies at all times.

• Takes accountability for information contained in the employee handbook and department procedures manual.

Other Information:

Competencies and Skills

• Behaves with Integrity and Builds Trust: Acts consistently in line with the core values, commitments and rules of conduct. Leads by example and tells the truth. Does what they say they will, when and how they say they will, or communicates an alternate plan.

• Cultivates Respect: Treats others fairly, embraces and values differences, and contributes to a culture of belonging, empowerment, and cooperation.

• Fosters Accountability: Creates and participates in a work environment where people hold themselves and others accountable for processes, results and behaviors. Takes appropriate ownership not only of successes but also mistakes and works to correct them in a timely manner. Demonstrates understanding that we all work as a team and the quality and timeliness of work impacts everyone involved.

• Practices Compassion: Exhibits genuine care for people and is available and ready to help; displays a deep awareness of and strong willingness to relieve the suffering of others.

Education

• Required No Minimum Requirement

Working Conditions

• Potential exposure to hazardous materials.

• Potential exposure to noise levels being uncomfortable.

• Potential exposure to noxious odors.

• Potential exposure to very hot or cold temperatures.

• Work with computers, typing, reading or writing.

• Lifting, moving and loading 30 to 50 pounds.

Northern Light Mercy Hospital is a nonprofit acute care hospital in Portland, Maine, and a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas ( . Our work is grounded in compassion, dignity, and service, with a commitment to caring for every member of our community, especially those most in need. At Mercy, people come to work knowing their role matters. Whether at the bedside, in support services, administration, or clinical care, every team member contributes to a culture built on respect, collaboration, and purpose.

We provide a broad range of medical and surgical services, along with multiple primary and specialty care offerings and community-based programs that extend our impact beyond the hospital walls. As a member of Northern Light Health, an integrated statewide health delivery system, employees benefit from the stability, resource, and career pathways of a larger organization while working in a hospital that feels personal and connected. Team members have opportunities to grow professionally, explore new roles, and build long-term careers in an environment focused on quality, innovation, and the well-being of our workforce.

Mercy Hospital is located in Portland, Maine’s largest and most vibrant city, offering an exceptional quality of life that attracts people from across the country. Portland is nationally recognized for its food scene, arts and culture, vibrant neighborhoods, and strong sense of community. Within minutes of the city, you can reach beaches, islands, lakes, and mountain trails, with easy access to hiking, skiing, boating, and cycling. The region also offers excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and easy travel connections through Portland International Jetport and nearby rail service to Boston. Southern Maine blends career opportunity with a lifestyle centered on balance, outdoor recreation, and coastal living, making it an ideal place to live and build a career.

Questions? Contact Talent Acquisition: phone: 207-973-7100email: View email address on click.appcast.io

Portland, Maine, Catholic, Sisters of Mercy, Level 2 NeoNatal Nursery

Position CookLocation US:ME:Portland | Food and Nutrition | Full TimeReq ID 90393