COOK (FT Varies)

Riverside Healthcare • Kankakee, IL

7h • $19 - $23 • Onsite

About The Position

The Cook at Riverside Senior Living is responsible for preparing and serving high-quality, nutritious meals for our residents in a welcoming and sanitary environment. This role ensures that meals are prepared according to residents' dietary needs and preferences while adhering to food safety and sanitation guidelines. The Cook will work closely with the dietary team to deliver a dining experience that enhances the well-being and satisfaction of our residents.

Requirements

• Food Handlers Certification or ServSafe Certification required.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience as a cook in a healthcare, senior living, or hospitality setting is preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Completion of a culinary arts program or equivalent training preferred.
• Any additional certifications in food safety or culinary arts are a plus.
• Speech: Needed for presentations/training, telephone communication, facilitate meetings, communication with residents, families, and co-workers.
• Vision: Need to read memos and literature, preparation of food.
• Smell: Needed for safety fire/electrical food preparation.
• Hearing: Needed for telephone communications, meetings and listening to employee concerns.
• Touch: Need to write, food preparation, filing.
• Sit: 10%
• Twist: 10%
• Stand: 30%
• Crawl: 5%
• Walk: 10%
• Kneel: 5%
• Lift: 30%
• Drive: 0%
• Squat: 5%
• Climb: 5%
• Bend: 5%
• Reach above shoulders: 5%
• Up to 10 lbs: Frequently
• Up to 20 lbs: Frequently
• Up to 35 lbs: Frequently
• Up to 50 lbs: Frequently
• Lifting and carrying food required for food preparation.
• Sit: 15
• Twist: 5
• Stand: 60
• Crawl: 5
• Walk: 5
• Kneel: 5
• Lift: 10
• Drive: 0
• Squat: 5
• Climb: 5
• Bend: 5
• Reach above shoulders: 5
• Simple grasp up to 150 lbs.
• Normal weight: daily
• Pushing & pulling Normal weight: 150# daily
• Fine Manipulation: Cutting and preparation of food and utensils.
• None
• Inside hours: 8
• Outside hours: 0
• Temperature: Normal Range
• Lighting: Average
• Noise levels: Average
• Humidity: Humid
• Atmosphere: Poor ventilation
• Chemical during cleaning
• Gloves

Nice To Haves

• Completion of a culinary arts program or equivalent training preferred.
• Any additional certifications in food safety or culinary arts are a plus.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals according to established recipes, menus, and dietary requirements, ensuring that all meals are flavorful, nutritious, and visually appealing.
• Assist in planning and adjusting menus to meet the dietary needs and preferences of residents, including those with specific health conditions or dietary restrictions.
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, ensuring all food is stored, handled, and prepared in compliance with health department regulations and facility policies.
• Monitor food supplies and ingredients, ensuring adequate stock levels are maintained. Assist with ordering and receiving food deliveries, checking for quality and accuracy.
• Engage with residents to understand their food preferences and accommodate special requests whenever possible.
• Work collaboratively with the dietary team, including kitchen aides and other cooks, to ensure efficient kitchen operations and timely meal service.
• Maintain accurate records of food temperatures, preparation times, and sanitation practices as required by regulatory guidelines.
• Assist in the preparation and service of food for special events and activities within the facility.
• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of kitchen equipment and utensils to ensure they remain in good working condition.
• Provide guidance and support to new kitchen staff and assist in training them on kitchen procedures and safety practices.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Generous retirement offerings
• Programs that invest in your career development
• Paid Time Off programs
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
• Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs
• Educational Assistance Program
• Paid Leave Hours accrued as you work

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED