Cook

Commonwealth Senior Living at South Boston•South Boston, VA

13d

About The Position

The Cook, under the direction of designated management and supervisors, prepares, presents, stores, and dispatches food for the dining room, bistro where available, marketing and catering events, and resident tray service where required. The Cook prepares food to preset menu specifications and within time limits established by the Dining Services Director and guest, following Commonwealth Senior Living standards and applicable health and safety regulations. The role includes maintaining sanitary and safe food-handling practices, preparing meals according to nutritional programs and individual dietary plans, and ensuring meals are served on time, in appropriate portions, and at the proper temperature. The Cook maintains food quality, presentation, inventory, and kitchen cleanliness; uses kitchen equipment; supports efficient operations and future meal preparation; assists with training new employees; and follows reporting and safety procedures. The position also includes demonstrating the company’s core values, supporting a sales culture, and helping ensure personnel exemplify those values.

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.
Strong problem-identification and problem-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 food presentation meets established standards.
Prepare meals according to menus, nutritional programs, and individual plans.
Ensure meal quality in taste, presentation, and compliance with dietary requirements established by the Dining Services Director.
Maintain food quality and safety through sanitation, sweeping floors, cleaning 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 correct quantities of food 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 as staffing needs vary.
Follow reporting procedures for accidents and incidents to support follow-up and prevention.
Comply with regulations covering blood-borne pathogens, infection control, hazardous materials, and fire safety.
Ensure food and departmental supplies are ordered and received in a timely manner to maintain adequate inventory.
Assist with training new employees.
Serve food in proper 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 them.
Create and drive the sales culture.