Cook - As Needed (PRN)

Acadia Healthcare•Columbia, MO

About The Position

CenterPointe Hospital of Columbia is seeking an as-needed (PRN) Cook to prepare fresh, nutritious meals in a healthcare environment and contribute to the patient experience through quality meal preparation and service. The position supports daily kitchen operations and provides coverage for scheduled absences, vacancies, and increased staffing needs. The Cook prepares food according to approved menus, directs workers who assist with meal preparation and service, and works with Food Service leadership or a Dietitian to ensure meals are varied, nutritionally balanced, and appetizing. The role also includes cleaning and inspecting equipment and work areas, managing inventory, coordinating food production and kitchen upkeep, and ensuring compliance with policies, quality standards, cost parameters, and regulatory requirements. Other duties may be assigned as needed. This position offers flexible PRN scheduling and an opportunity to support patient care and satisfaction while gaining experience in a healthcare setting. Weekend and holiday availability may be needed.

Requirements

Food service, restaurant, healthcare, or institutional cooking experience is preferred.
Knowledge of safe food handling, preparation, and storage practices.
Strong teamwork, organization, and time management skills.
Dependable attendance and a positive, customer-focused attitude.
Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays as needed.
High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Two or more years of experience in a food service role preparing food for institutions such as a school, hospital, or cafeteria is preferred.
ServSafe Certification or similar food safety certification where required by the state or facility, or willingness to obtain certification.

Nice To Haves

Additional education or training in the culinary field.
ServSafe Certification or similar food safety certification.
Two or more years of institutional food service experience.

Responsibilities

Cook and prepare food according to approved menus.
Direct activities of workers who assist in preparing and serving meals.
Clean and inspect equipment, kitchen appliances, and work areas to ensure cleanliness and functional operation.
Take inventory of supplies and equipment and maintain kitchen supplies.
Work with Food Service leadership or a Dietitian to ensure menus are varied, nutritionally balanced, and appetizing.
Perform and coordinate food production, cleaning, maintenance, and inventory control activities.
Ensure compliance with established policies and procedures, quality standards, cost parameters, and applicable regulatory requirements.
Perform other functions and tasks as assigned.
Provide coverage for scheduled absences, vacancies, and increased staffing needs.