Cook (EHS)

The Cook, reporting directly to the Dining Services Director, is responsible for preparing high-quality, nutritious, and appealing meals that meet or exceed the hospitality and service standards of the community. This position plays a vital role in supporting residents’ health and wellbeing by accommodating individual dietary needs, maintaining food safety and infection control standards, and ensuring meals are served on time and at appropriate temperatures. The Cook also contributes to a positive dining experience by upholding culinary excellence, assisting with kitchen organization, and supporting the training and development of new dining team members. By collaborating with the Dining Services Director, kitchen staff, and other community departments, this position helps foster a welcoming, safe, and resident-focused environment.

Ensure the proper preparation, portioning, and serving of foods as indicated on the menu cycle and standardized recipes.

Taste and prepare food to determine quality.

Prepare all special dietary needs as directed by the Dining Services Director and/or menus assigned.

Determine food and supplies needed and coordinate meal production with serving hours.

Assist with orientation and training of new kitchen staff.

Handle food in a safe and appropriate manner.

Practice all safety and loss prevention procedures.

Maintain appropriate food temperatures by ensuring proper cooling/heating procedures are followed and equipment is working properly.

Remain current and up to date with all food safety licensing requirements for FDA, state, county, and local authorities and ensure all guidelines are adhered to.

Ensure effective communication is being utilized by community staff with the residents’ families concerning residents’ care, encompassing their physical, personal, and emotional wellbeing.

Work well with others and take direction from management, as well as taking initiative with the capability to engage in conflict intervention and resolution for residents, families, employees, and others as needed.

High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.

Food Manager Certification, or ability to obtain, is required.

Demonstrated proficiency in common digital tools and applications, including Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Excel, Word), web-based platforms, electronic health record systems, and any HR-related systems as applicable.

This position may need to walk or stand for extended periods and move throughout the community, resident apartments, and other areas of the community.

This position may need to lift up to fifty (50) pounds independently, and up to 200 pounds with assistance.

Individuals in this position are required to follow all infection prevention and control protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary, to ensure the health and safety of residents, staff, and visitors.

Individuals in this position are required to stay current on all training and ongoing education initiatives. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Cedarhurst considers the health and safety of its residents, family members, and team members as its highest priorities. All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screening, participation in required health assessments (such as TB testing or physical evaluations), and the use of designated personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by company policy and applicable law.

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