Cook

About the Role

Mercy Hospital St. Louis is seeking a skilled and dependable Cook to join our Nutrition Services team. This position is responsible for food production throughout the department, preparing high-quality meals for patients, visitors, and co-workers while maintaining exceptional standards of food safety, sanitation, and customer service. The ideal candidate will possess knowledge of a variety of cooking methods and techniques and have the ability to prepare visually appealing, nutritious meals in a fast-paced healthcare environment. This role is essential to supporting the healing and well-being of those we serve.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook food items according to approved recipes, production schedules, and quality standards.
• Demonstrate proficiency in a variety of cooking techniques, including chopping, slicing, grilling, steaming, reheating, and short-order cooking.
• Ensure food products and displays are presented in a visually appealing and appetizing manner.
• Maintain proper portion control and food presentation standards.
• Accurately measure, weigh, and prepare ingredients according to established recipes.
• Operate and maintain kitchen equipment safely, including ovens, grills, slicers, mixers, steamers, blenders, and choppers.
• Clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, and food preparation surfaces according to department and regulatory standards.
• Maintain accurate production and food safety records as required by policy.
• Assist with the setup and breakdown of catering events and special functions.
• Communicate inventory and product needs in a timely manner.
• Follow all Mercy Service Standards when interacting with patients, visitors, and fellow co-workers.
• Adhere to all food safety, infection prevention, and workplace safety policies.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support department operations and Mercy's Mission, Vision, and Values.

Requirements

• Ability to successfully obtain and maintain ServSafe Certification within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to meet attendance, punctuality, and scheduling expectations.
• Ability to work safely and efficiently in a fast-paced food service environment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred.
• Food Handler Certification within 90 days of hire, where applicable.
• ServSafe Certification within six months of hire and maintained thereafter.

Skills

• Knowledge of food preparation techniques and commercial kitchen operations.
• Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Basic math skills for measuring, weighing, and portioning ingredients.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Ability to follow written recipes and production instructions.
• Demonstrates initiative, integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, and grip up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions, including grasping and pinching.
• Ability to work around hot equipment, sharp utensils, and food preparation equipment.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid time off.
• Tuition support.
• Matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Schedule

Full-Time, 40 hours per week.