assisted living cook job description
An assisted living cook prepares and serves meals for residents according to a planned menu, while accommodating special dietary needs and maintaining a sanitary kitchen. The role requires both culinary skill and compassion for working with seniors.
Core responsibilities
Meal preparation: Follow a pre-planned menu to prepare and cook nutritious and appealing meals for all residents.
Dietary modifications: Adapt menu items for therapeutic diets, including low-sodium, diabetic, allergen-free, and other physician-ordered restrictions.
Safety and sanitation: Adhere to all federal, state, and local food safety regulations, including proper food handling, storage, labeling, and temperature logs.
Kitchen maintenance: Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, including washing dishes, sanitizing workstations, and emptying trash.
Inventory management: Monitor food and supply levels and report shortages to the culinary or dining services director.
Equipment operation: Safely and correctly operate all kitchen equipment, promptly reporting any malfunctions.
Documentation: Maintain accurate records, such as daily and weekly cleaning logs and food production quantities.
Qualifications and skills
Experience: A high school diploma or GED is typically required, along with prior experience in food preparation in a restaurant or institutional setting.
Food safety certification: A valid Food Handler's or ServSafe certification is often required.
Culinary skills: Must have the ability to follow standardized recipes, understand production methods, and have a good sense of food quality and presentation.
Communication skills: Effective written and verbal communication is necessary for interacting with residents, staff, and supervisors.
Time management: The ability to manage time efficiently is crucial to serve meals promptly, especially during peak dining hours.
Empathy and patience: Assisted living cooks should be compassionate and diplomatic when working with elderly residents, some of whom may have specific eating habits or health needs.
Teamwork: A team player spirit is essential for collaborating effectively with other dining services and care staff.
Typical work environment
Assisted living cooks work in a fast-paced kitchen environment, which requires stamina for prolonged standing and repetitive physical tasks.
The role involves lifting up to 40 pounds and exposure to various kitchen conditions, such as temperature extremes, noise, and cleaning chemicals.
Flexibility in scheduling is often necessary, including the ability to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.