Cook

Commonwealth Senior Living at the Ballentine•Norfolk, VA

20d•$17 - $22

About The Position

The Cook, under the direction of designated management and supervisors, prepares, presents, stores, and dispatches food products for the Dining Room, Bistro where available, marketing and catering events, and resident tray service where required. The role includes preparing food to preset menu specifications within established time limits and according to the standards set by the Dining Services Director and Commonwealth Senior Living. The Cook follows health and safety regulations and sanitary, safe food-handling practices at all times. The Cook ensures meals meet menu, presentation, quality, nutritional, and individual dietary requirements; prepares appropriate quantities and portions; and maintains food safety and kitchen cleanliness. The role also includes maintaining inventory, assisting with training new employees, reporting incidents and policy infractions, and supporting the company’s core values and sales culture.

Requirements

At least 1 year of cooking experience.
Knowledge of food and catering trends, quality, production, sanitation, food cost controls, and presentation.
Knowledge of food-service methods and procedures, sanitation principles, and safe food handling.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Effective communication skills.
Flexibility and interpersonal skills to work effectively in a diverse environment.
Effective teamwork skills.
Computer literacy, including working knowledge of MS Word, Excel, and email.
Attention to detail.
Strong time management and multitasking skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks with minimal supervision.
Problem identification and resolution skills.
Strong work ethic and positive team attitude.

Nice To Haves

Working experience in the retirement home industry.

Responsibilities

Prepare and serve menu items according to departmental policies and procedures.
Ensure menu items meet established presentation standards.
Prepare meals according to menus, nutritional programs, and individual plans.
Ensure meal quality in taste, presentation, and dietary compliance.
Maintain food quality and safety through sanitary practices, cleaning floors and surfaces, and properly covering and storing food.
Work at an efficient and consistent pace and prepare meals on time.
Ensure residents receive meals that meet their dietary requirements.
Prepare quantities sufficient for daily needs.
Use kitchen equipment during food preparation.
Remain productive and prepare for future needs as time allows.
Demonstrate flexibility and volunteer to fill open shifts when staffing varies.
Follow reporting procedures for accidents and incidents to support follow-up and prevention.
Follow regulations concerning blood-borne pathogens, infection control, hazardous materials, and fire safety.
Ensure food and departmental supplies are ordered and received promptly and that inventory levels support actual or anticipated volume.
Assist in training new employees.
Serve food in the correct portions and at the proper temperature.
Report violations of food services department policies and procedures.
Arrive at work at the scheduled time.
Perform other related duties as required.
Model the company’s core values and ensure personnel exemplify those values.
Create and drive the sales culture.