Cook III

About the role

The Cook III position at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) involves performing complex technical food service production tasks. This role is integral to the quality of life and safety of patients.

Responsibilities

• Prepares, seasons, cooks, and assembles food for regular and modified diets using proper equipment and utensils.
• Follows Central Kitchen Operation Manual Procedures and ensures others follow proper food handling in accordance with food service procedures, state, and federal guidelines.
• Maintains a supply of snack items and follows Central Kitchen Operation Manual Procedures.
• Operates and maintains all food service equipment in a safe manner.
• Provides guidance, training, and oversight to others to operate and maintain food service equipment in a safe manner.
• Calculates proper amounts of food to prepare and deliver to the designated food service areas by using a standardized menu and recipe.
• Prepares and participates in the distribution of food in a safe and sanitary manner according to the food service policies, including driving a delivery vehicle when needed.
• Serves food, including for special diets, following food service procedures.
• Maintains and inspects assigned areas for sanitation to include cleaning equipment, utilizing proper food handling and preparation techniques and assembly and service procedures, and storing and utilizing leftovers properly.
• Guides, trains, and oversees others in food preparation, equipment uses and sanitization.
• Completes required records and reports such as equipment work orders, document notes on the subordinate cooks.
• Reports kitchen equipment in need of repair or replacement, or supplies needed using the designated protocol.
• Aids in making recommendations to improve operational efficiency to the designed supervisor.

Requirements

Twenty-four (24) months of work experience in a food service operation is required. Certification in Food Safety (ServSafe, Learn to Serve, or Food Protection Manager) is preferred, or the ability to obtain certification within six (6) months of hire is required.

Qualifications

• Valid Texas driver license or obtain one within 90 days of hire.
• Pass a fingerprint criminal background check.
• Pass a pre-employment drug screen.
• Pass registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct, List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE).
• Eligible driving record required based on HHSC Fleet Management policy.
• Must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility.
• Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position.

Skills

• Knowledge of food preparation methods.
• Knowledge of specialized diets and textures.
• Knowledge of food storage standards and sanitation regulations.
• Knowledge of cooking and baking methods.
• Knowledge of the use and care of food preparation appliances and equipment.
• Ability to interpret and follow recipes.
• Ability to serve food, clean dining, serving, and food preparation areas, and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to speak and read English.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
• Ability to complete basic math used in cooking/preparation.
• Ability to lift minimum of 25 pounds.
• Ability to bend and reach, stand/walk on hard floors for extended periods of time.
• Ability to work in hot and/or cold conditions.
• Ability to smell, taste, and see.
• Ability to work harmoniously and productively with co-workers and residents.
• Ability to guide, train, and oversee the work of others in food preparation, equipment uses and sanitization.

Benefits

The comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more.