COOK

Responsible to:  Director of Dining Services

General Description:  Prepare food in accordance with current applicable federal, state, and local standards, guidelines, and regulations, with our established policies and procedures, and as may be directed by the Director of Dining Services and the Production Manager, to assure that safety and quality food service is provided at all times.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review menus prior to preparation of food.
• Inspect special diet trays to assure that the correct diet is served to the resident.
• Ensure that all food procedures are followed in accordance with established policies.
• Prepare meals in accordance with planned menus.
• Assist in establishing food service production line, etc., to assure that meals are prepared on time.
• Process diet changes and new diets as received from Nursing Services.
• Prepare and serve meals that are palatable and appetizing in appearance.
• Serve food in accordance with established portion control procedures.
• Prepare food for therapeutic diets in accordance with planned menus.
• Prepare food in accordance with standardized recipes and special diet orders.
• Prepare and serve substitute foods to residents who refuse foods served.
• Prepare food in accordance with sanitary regulations as well as our established policies and procedures.
• Ensure that safety regulations and precautions are always followed by all personnel.
• Follow established Infection Control Precautions policies and procedures when performing daily tasks.
• Assist/direct daily or scheduled cleaning duties in accordance with established policies 
• Ensure the department is maintained in a clean and safe manner by assuring that necessary equipment and supplies are maintained.
• Dispose of food and waste in accordance with established policies.
• Report missing/illegible labels or MSDSs to the Director of Food Services.
• Report all hazardous conditions/equipment to the Director of Food Services immediately.
• Ensure that food and supplies for the next meal are readily available.
• Assist in inventorying and storing in-coming food, supplies, etc., as necessary.
• Assist in serving meals as necessary and on a timely basis.
• Make only authorized food substitutions.
• Assist in food preparation for special meals, for parties, etc.
• All other duties as assigned by Director of Dining Services.

Qualifications:

• Must have a high school graduate education.
• Must have current food service manager’s certificate. 
• Must have an understanding of special diets in accordance with State and ADA regulatory guidelines.
• One (1) year food experience in a capacity in a hospital, nursing care facility, or other related medical facility preferred (but not necessary).
• Must be able to cook a variety of foods in large quantities.
• Must be knowledgeable of food procedures and read and understand recipes.
• Must be able to taste and smell food to determine quality and palatability.
• Must be able to follow oral and written instructions.
• Must maintain the care and use of supplies, equipment, the appearance of work areas, and perform regular inspections of Dining Service areas for sanitation, order, safety, and proper performance of assigned duties.
• Must be able to relate to and work with ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally upset, and, at times, hostile people within the facility.
• Must be able to push, pull, move, and/or lift a minimum of 40 pounds. 
• May be necessary to assist in the evacuation of residents during emergency situations.

Authority:  Does not supervise anyone.

Working Relationships:  

• The Cook is selected by Director of Dining Services and is responsible to him/her.
• Establish and maintain functional relationships immediate staff, supervisors and residents. 

Requirements: 

• Must be able to speak, read and understand verbal and written instructions in English; and must be able to be understood clearly and easily by residents as English is the prevailing language at Holly Hall Retirement Community.
• Must be able to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
• Must be able to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel and the public.
• Must be able to work harmoniously with other personnel.
• Works beyond normal working hours, on weekends, and in other positions temporarily, when necessary.
• Sits, stands, bends, lifts, and moves intermittently during working hours.
• Is subject to frequent interruptions.
• Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position.
• Must possess sight/hearing senses or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately so that the requirements of this position can be fully met.
• Must function independently and have flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with other staff.
• Must be in good general heath and demonstrate emotional stability.
• Must be able to lift, push, pull, move and manipulate at least 50 pounds.
• Must be able to assist in the evacuation of residents.

General Statement:  It is understood that this document may be changed in the future in the best interest of Holly Hall and/or those served.  Any changes will be discussed with the incumbent.