Dietary Cook

Dietary Cook

Starting at $14.00 / hour – $500 Sign-On Bonus

PURPOSE OF YOUR JOB POSITION

Prepare and serve quality, palatable meals in accordance with planned menus, physician orders, and dietary guidelines; coordinate with the dietitian and Director of Food Services to ensure safe, compliant, and timely service.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum 8th grade education; ability to cook a variety of foods in large quantities.

Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English; follow standardized recipes and diet orders.

Knowledge of food procedures, portion control, and safe food handling practices.

Food Safety Handler certification (or willing to obtain / maintain).

Teamwork and communication skills; tactful with residents, visitors, and staff.

RESIDENT RIGHTS

Maintain confidentiality of PHI; ensure privacy and dignity while providing meal service.

Knock before entering rooms; report grievances and suspected abuse per policy.

Communicate respectfully; honor cultural and dietary preferences as appropriate.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Review menus prior to meal prep; set up production lines to ensure on-time service.

Prepare regular and therapeutic diets per recipes and menus; verify special diet trays for accuracy.

Ensure meals are appetizing in appearance, temperature, and texture; provide approved substitutions.

Coordinate with the dietitian on menu changes; maintain required menu / production records.

Oversee salad, dessert, and bread preparation; plating and service standards.

Maintain a clean, safe kitchen; sanitize equipment per schedule.

Ensure appropriate equipment / utensils accompany trays; prepare and serve snacks as ordered.

Inventory and store incoming food and supplies; rotate stock; recommend equipment / supply needs.

Collaborate with interdepartmental staff to support quality dining experiences and resident satisfaction.

SAFETY AND SANITATION

Follow dress code and food safety standards; maintain hand hygiene and glove use.

Use PPE and safe-lifting techniques; maintain knowledge of SDS / chemical labels.

Adhere to infection prevention policies; clean and sanitize per regulatory standards.

Report incidents, hazards, and equipment issues immediately; participate in safety in-services.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

Stand for extended periods; tolerate kitchen heat / humidity; lift up to 50 lbs.

Work in a fast-paced environment; coordinate multiple tasks and timelines.

Function independently with integrity and teamwork; flexible to meet operational needs.