Cook - LaSalle County Nursing Home

Whitsons Culinary Group•Ottawa, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Cook prepares fresh meals in a healthcare food service setting to support resident wellness and recovery. The role follows healthcare dietary guidelines and patient menus, including special diets, allergies, and other food restrictions. The Cook works with dietary and clinical staff to address residents’ nutritional and medical needs and helps maintain a safe, clean, and organized kitchen. This is a full-time, non-exempt position aligned with the school district’s food service schedule. It is primarily site-based, with occasional travel to other district locations for substitute coverage or operational support. Occasional extended hours may be needed for special events or operational needs. The position offers paid training, growth opportunities, benefits, and paid time off. The stated pay rate is $22 per hour.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least one year of professional culinary or food service experience.
ServSafe certification, or willingness to obtain it within a defined timeframe upon hire; local food safety certification in the jurisdiction of employment.
Proficiency in recipe procedures and cooking techniques, including batch cooking and recipe execution.
Ability to speak and read English sufficiently to understand and perform assignments, follow recipes, and comply with safety requirements.
Commitment to food safety and sanitation standards, including HACCP and ServSafe requirements.
Dependable, caring, and professional attitude; effective communication and teamwork skills.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced kitchen environment and demonstrate interest in resident nutrition and wellbeing.
Ability to stand for most of the workday; frequently walk, talk, and hear; handle food, tools, and equipment; and reach with hands and arms.
Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, including while turning side to side.

Nice To Haves

Residential, correctional, or institutional food service experience.
Basic cooking knowledge; training is provided for the right person.

Responsibilities

Prepare and cook meals according to healthcare dietary guidelines and patient menus.
Prepare food safely and attractively while following recipe procedures and cooking techniques.
Follow procedures for special diets, allergies, and food restrictions.
Work with dietary and clinical staff to meet patients’ nutritional and medical needs.
Maintain a clean, sanitized, organized, and properly stocked kitchen and work station.
Follow HACCP, ServSafe, food safety, sanitation, and other applicable compliance standards.
Complete temperature logs and production records accurately and on time.
Manage the timing and sequencing of cooking operations to meet meal service deadlines.
Meet portioning, presentation, and nutritional compliance standards.
Work cooperatively with the Chef Manager and other food service workers to support daily service goals.
Maintain a welcoming, orderly station and contribute to resident satisfaction.
Travel occasionally to other school locations within the district for substitute coverage or operational support.