Cook

About the role

The Cook prepares food in accordance with current applicable federal, state, and local standards, guidelines, and regulations, with established policies and procedures, ensuring resident safety. May be directed by the Executive Chef and/or Director of Culinary Services.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate food preparation and meal service.
• Plan and initiate cooking schedule for food preparation to meet meal schedule.
• Prepare, season, cook, and serve assigned meals; ensure appropriate portioned servings according to portion control standards.
• Prepare nutritional snacks as directed.
• Monitor temperature of hot and cold foods through food preparation and service to ensure that established temperature goals are met prior to steam table transfer and maintained throughout meal service.
• Check and inspect food products and supplies as delivered when needed.
• Oversee and assist in storage of supplies and food products.
• Determine amount and type of food and supplies required for daily menus.
• Notify Director of food, supplies, or equipment needs; report equipment breakdowns and unsafe conditions to Director or Executive Chef.
• Clean equipment and work areas as assigned.
• Wear uniforms in accordance with dress code requirements.
• Maintain regular attendance and punctuality for scheduled shifts.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge through continuing education opportunities, including internal and external educational offerings.
• Utilize assistive devices for lifting as mandatory.
• Adhere to safety protocols at all times.
• Understand the facility's fire and disaster plans; follow established procedures during drills and actual emergencies.
• Follow infection prevention guidance.
• Implement DRH Standards of Behavior and exhibit behaviors consistent with DRH core values.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Preference given to persons with education in quantity cooking and therapeutic diets.
• Minimum one (1) year food service experience in a health care dietary setting is desired.
• General knowledge of quantity food preparation and portioned serving.
• Ability to lead a group of peers with a proven ability to coach and teach within the kitchen.
• Strong team player.
• Basic phone and computer skills.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and facility’s rules, regulations, policies, and procedures as related to culinary services.
• Appreciation of the value of food and dietary equipment and awareness of the requirement for careful handling and economy of serving.

Qualifications

• Communication skills including fluency in oral and written English.
• Basic computer skills including the ability to navigate information technology associated with the position.
• Ability to remain flexible to quickly adapt to urgent situations.
• Ability to adapt procedures, processes, tools, equipment, and techniques to accomplish the requirements of the position.
• Knowledge of proper and safe food preparation, food handling regulations, and best practices.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to learn and use established techniques for the efficient and compliant completion of duties.
• Ability to present self in a highly professional manner and understand that honesty and ethics are essential.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude and communicate with co-workers and other departments with professionalism and respect.
• Ability to maintain a professional relationship with all coworkers, vendor representatives, supervisors, managers, customers, and client representatives.
• Ability to provide clear directions and respond accordingly to team members.
• Ability to work well under pressure, alone, and in a team.
• Ability to use all relevant electronic and communication devices.
• Ability to work independently and complete assignments in a timely manner.

Certifications

• Oklahoma food handler’s permit required.
• Bloodborne pathogen training required.
• For those positions requiring travel, a current valid driver’s license and automobile liability insurance must be maintained.

This is a Safety-Sensitive Position as defined by Oklahoma law. Applicants cannot test positive for the presence of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in pre-employment drug tests or any drug tests administered after employment begins, even with a valid medical marijuana card.

This position requires respirator and fit testing. Required testing will be performed on all team members at risk for exposure to airborne infectious diseases, droplet-producing procedures, or any caustic chemicals. As a condition of employment, vaccinations are required per DRH Policy. Medical and Religious Exemptions are available upon request.