Traveling Cook/Culinary Specialist

Tutera Senior Living & Health Care•Kansas City, MO

18h•Onsite

About The Position

The Traveling Culinary Specialist supports culinary operations across multiple senior living and skilled nursing communities by providing consistent, high-quality meal preparation during staffing shortages, special projects, or transitional periods. This role ensures residents receive nutritious, appealing meals while maintaining compliance with food safety standards and supporting a positive dining experience.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Minimum 2 years of cooking experience, preferably in senior living, healthcare, or institutional food service
Knowledge of modified diets and senior nutrition standards
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel between locations
Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
ServSafe/Always Food Safe Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)

Nice To Haves

Experience in assisted living, independent living, or skilled nursing environments
Familiarity with production cooking and high-volume meal service
Strong adaptability and problem-solving skills

Responsibilities

Prepare and cook meals according to standardized recipes, menus, and dietary requirements
Ensure meals meet senior nutrition guidelines, portion standards, and presentation expectations
Accommodate therapeutic diets (e.g., low sodium, diabetic, texture-modified, allergen-sensitive)
Assist with menu execution during peak service periods
Follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection control standards (ServSafe/Always Food Safe, local, state, and federal regulations)
Maintain clean, organized workstations and proper food storage practices
Document temperatures, production records, and other required logs
Step into existing kitchen teams with minimal orientation and adapt quickly to different environments
Support dining services during call-outs, vacancies, or high-volume periods
Communicate effectively with Dining Directors, Dining Department Heads, Dietary Managers and community leadership
Assist with inventory control and proper food handling procedures as directed
Provide courteous, respectful service to residents and staff
Respond professionally to resident preferences, feedback, and special requests
Support a warm, hospitality-focused dining atmosphere

Benefits

Advanced Pay
Financial Literacy Classes
Employee Assistance Program offering Mental Health Resources, Legal Guidance, Financial Information, and more!
Child Care Discount
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
401(k) for Eligible Locations
Tuition Reimbursement
Paid Time Off
Holiday Pay
Exclusive Tutera Perks
Tutera University
Advancement Opportunities