Lead Cook

Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay•Virginia Beach, VA

2d•$18 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

Founded in 1982, Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay is a not-for-profit, faith-based Life Plan Community. Located along the southern shore of Chesapeake Bay, our scenic, resort-style campus is home to a vibrant community of residents and staff who share a passion for service, joy, and well-being. Our mission? Enriching lives through the power of purpose, belonging, and wellness. We live our values every day: Respect for every person Passion for what we do Professionalism in all we do Apply today and help us bring wellness, joy, and energy to the heart of our community! Behind every delicious meal and memorable dining experience is our incredible Dining Services Team — a dedicated group of Dining Room, Catering, Culinary and Nutrition Care professionals who bring passion, creativity, and care to every plate they serve. From perfectly prepared dishes to friendly, attentive service, this hardworking team goes above and beyond to make every meal special for our residents, staff and visitors alike. Their teamwork, attention to detail, and genuine love for what they do, creates not just great food, but a true sense of community around the table. The Lead Cook is responsible for preparing hot food items for various dining venues and events at Westminster-Canterbury. Depending on experience, Cooks are graded from Cook I (entry-level) to Rounds Cook (advanced). The role involves following recipes, ensuring quality and safety standards, and working collaboratively within the culinary team. Flexibility to work weekends and holidays is required.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must have prior food service experience.
Knowledge of food safety, handling, and preparation.
Ability to follow recipes, lift 25+ lbs, and stand for extended periods.
Team player attitude with great communication skills.
Able to work weekends, holidays, and special events.
General knowledge of safety and sanitation rules and practices.
Ability to cooperate with staff of other departments in performing job duties.
Must take necessary precautions and follow correct procedures for lifting and bending.
Able to work well independently given proper direction.
Provide a clean, safe, and neat environment for residents, self and staff.
Flu Vaccinated.

Nice To Haves

COVID-19 Vaccinated.
As of now, the 2025–2026 COVID-19 vaccine formulation is being distributed to providers and pharmacies; however, it has not yet received official approval from the CDC. In Virginia, pharmacists may administer COVID-19 vaccines under the Virginia Board of Pharmacy’s statewide protocols or with a direct order from a licensed medical provider. We encourage all new hires to consult with their healthcare provider regarding the most current vaccination recommendations. Please be aware that, depending on future CDC guidance or regulatory updates, we may require proof of the most recent COVID-19 vaccination as part of our ongoing commitment to health and safety.

Responsibilities

Prepare hot food items including entrees, soups, vegetables, and accompaniments.
Follow recipes and prep sheets for multiple dining venues.
Ensure food quality, temperature, and presentation meet standards.
Maintain cleanliness, safety, and sanitation protocols.
Support special functions and work across various kitchen stations.
Collaborate with and mentor fellow culinary team members.
Confer with Sous Chef regarding unusual problems.
Responsible for hot food preparation, including accompaniments and garnishes.
Correctly prepares hot entrees, soups and vegetables following preparation sheets and provided recipes for main dining room, healthcare, resident café, employee dining room and any special functions.
Correctly prepares and creatively assembles cold appetizers, salads, cold entrees following preparation sheets and provided recipes for main dining room, healthcare, resident café, employee dining room and any special functions.
Does advance preparation as indicated.
Serves tasteful and eye appealing food items following provided recipes.
Complete food temperature checks at each meal. Record these in the temperature log book.
Complete preparation and productivity records as specified by the production system and stores food items properly at the close of meal service.
Clean work area and equipment used in food preparation.
Follow safety and sanitation rules and practices.
Ensure that all hot food preparation and assembling is done in accordance with established procedures.
Demonstrate knowledge of fire safety procedures and assists with evacuation of kitchen areas to safe locations in event of fire or other emergency.
Perform other duties as assigned.