Kitchen Service, Cook, Dietary, Culinary

Argento Westchester•Los Angeles, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, high-quality meals for residents in accordance with posted menus, dietary needs, and facility policies. The Cook ensures food safety, cleanliness, and sanitation standards are consistently met and maintained. This individual plays a vital role in promoting resident health, comfort, and satisfaction by providing well-prepared meals in a respectful and timely manner.

Requirements

At least eighteen (18) years of age
Criminal clearance prior to presence in the facility
High school diploma (or equivalent, such as a General Education Development certificate)
Passed a physical and have a chest x-ray (or an intradermal test) performed by a physician within the prior six months of employment
Physician’s report indicating physical qualification to perform duties and no health conditions that would create a hazard to self, staff, or residents
Previous experience in food preparation, preferably in an assisted living or healthcare environment
Understanding of safe food handling, sanitation, and infection control practices
Ability to read and follow standardized recipes and portion guidelines
Knowledge of special diets, textures, and dietary restrictions common to elderly residents
Ability to work efficiently under time constraints and adjust meals as needed
Good character, reliability, and a strong work ethic
Physical ability to perform housekeeping tasks, including lifting up to 30 lbs., bending, stooping, standing for long periods, and operating cleaning equipment
Ability to communicate effectively with residents, staff, and supervisors
TB test clearance within 7 days of employment
Health screening completed within 7 days of employment
Ability to Speak English
Wait staff experience required
Ability to count
Knows and understands facility fire plan, disaster plan, and safety procedures
Ability to follow written and oral directions
Ability to interact tactfully with residents and family members, staff and general public
Be mobile and able to perform physical requirements of the job
Good physical health verified by a health screening, including a chest x-ray or an intradermal test not more than six (6) months prior or seven (7) days after employment
Demonstrates genuine concern for the physical and emotional needs of older people and their families
Maintains a positive attitude in all situations
Demonstrates an awareness and concern for resident safety at all times

Nice To Haves

Basic First Aid certification is preferred

Responsibilities

Prepare breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner meals according to the facility menu and posted schedule.
Follow dietary guidelines for residents with special needs, including diabetic, low-sodium, and mechanically altered diets.
Maintain kitchen cleanliness and sanitation, including work surfaces, appliances, utensils, and food storage areas.
Ensure all food is stored, labeled, and rotated according to food safety regulations.
Cook meals in a timely manner and ensure proper food temperatures are maintained and recorded.
Assist with portioning and plating of meals to ensure consistency and compliance with menu plans.
Help manage kitchen inventory, track food usage, and notify the Culinary Services Director or designated staff when supplies need to be ordered.
Minimize food waste and ensure cost-effective meal preparation.
Assist with cleaning dishes, trays, and kitchen equipment as needed.
Coordinate with caregivers and med techs to meet individual resident needs during mealtimes.
Maintain a positive and professional attitude in interactions with residents and staff.
Support meal service for special occasions or events as requested.
Comply with all local, state, and federal regulations regarding food service in a licensed care setting.
Attend in-service training and staff meetings as required.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Culinary Services Director.