Cook

Cardinal Senior Living•Grand Rapids, MI

4d•$18 - $20

About The Position

The Cook provides advanced food preparation for the population served by each entity, following special dietary guidelines. The position informally directs and guides Dietary Aides to support efficient kitchen operations and helps ensure residents receive food that is nutritious, appealing, palatable, safely prepared, and served at the appropriate temperature. The Cook works collaboratively with coworkers and may serve as the designated person in charge when managers are absent. The role includes organizing food preparation and staff assignments, maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen and dining room, monitoring food safety practices, and assisting with meal service, catering, food ordering and receiving, and staff training as needed. The position description also notes that other duties may be assigned and that staff must perform job functions safely.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
One year of experience demonstrating the ability to cook a variety of foods in quantity, including knowledge of seasoning and required cooking times.
One year of experience demonstrating knowledge of the care and use of cooking utensils and equipment.
Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and move it 3 to 4 feet; assistance may be requested.
Ability to stand for extended periods and bend, stoop, and reach frequently.
Ability to perform all job functions safely.

Nice To Haves

Three years of experience preparing food in an institutional setting.
Two years of experience providing leadership through instruction and by example.
Vocational training.
ServSafe certification.

Responsibilities

Work with coworkers in a team environment that promotes positive service qualities and respect for residents.
Review production information with staff daily; monitor production quantities and portioning; and record production and waste data when the Executive Chef is absent.
Prepare food according to department standards, preserving nutritional value, appearance, palatability, appropriate serving temperature, and special-diet requirements.
Maintain overall kitchen cleanliness, including washing and storing dishes, cleaning floors and counters, disinfecting equipment and work areas, and keeping mats clean.
Maintain overall dining room cleanliness, including changing tablecloths according to policy, vacuuming after meals, and cleaning the salad bar area.
Ensure staff follow food safety and sanitation standards, and maintain a safe, clean, and orderly work environment.
Guide, assist, and instruct staff; organize work schedules so food is prepared on time; and support orderly completion of assignments.
Serve as the designated person in charge when managers are absent and perform additional resident-service tasks as directed, which may include finding coverage for call-offs, monitoring employee breaks, and notifying the director of behavioral or performance issues.
Assist with serving or delivering meals when needed.
Prepare and serve special events and catering as needed.
Provide direction and assistance with dishwashing and cleanup operations.
Monitor compliance with cleaning schedules.
Assist with ordering and receiving food, and ensure food is received and stored properly.
Assist with training and orienting new employees as needed.
Attend and participate in staff meetings, projects, special events, committees, and mandatory training as appropriate; complete required competency evaluations.
Follow applicable state regulations.
Perform other duties as assigned.