Cook - Jeffersontown Rehabilitation - Food

Job Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook flavorful, yet visually appealing meals following standardized recipes, nutritional guidelines, and resident dietary needs.
• Demonstrate proficiency in scratch cooking, batch preparation, and therapeutic diet modifications.
• Utilize various cooking methods, including baking, roasting, broiling, steaming, and sautéing.
• Adjust menus as needed to accommodate dietary modifications and resident preferences.

Compliance & Food Safety

• Follow all state, federal, and local food safety regulations, including proper food handling, sanitation, and storage guidelines.
• Maintain clean equipment, utensils, and a sanitary workstation.
• Comply with infection control policies and wear protective equipment as required.

Meal Service & Presentation

• Assist with plating, garnishing, and portioning meals to meet presentation standards.
• Serve meals efficiently while accommodating resident preferences within dietary guidelines.
• Offer alternative meal options for residents with special dietary needs.

Team Collaboration & Administration

• Cook with the Dietary Manager, dietitians, and healthcare staff to meet resident needs.
• Aid in inventory management, food ordering, and proper storage procedures.
• Complete required reports, documentation, and compliance forms accurately.

Resident-Centered Approach

• Build positive relationships with residents to enhance their dining experience.
• Show patience, compassion, and professionalism in a senior living environment.
• Provide excellent customer service to residents, guests, and team members.

Qualifications

• Minimum of one year as a cook in a healthcare, senior living, or related setting.
• Familiarity with therapeutic diets (e.g., diabetic, low-sodium, mechanical soft, pureed).
• Strong knowledge of safe food handling, batch cooking, and scratch cooking.
• Must obtain and maintain a Food Manager's Certification and/or SERV Safe Certification (or be willing to acquire upon hire; state-specific).

Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of food preparation techniques and various cooking methods.
• Ability to convert recipes, measure ingredients accurately, and maintain portion control.
• Familiarity with kitchen equipment such as ovens, slicers, steamers, and mixers.
• Effective time management to ensure meals align with scheduled service times.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs., and perform repetitive tasks such as bending, pushing, and pulling.
• Adhere to all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements.

Availability & Scheduling

• Flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and varying shifts including early mornings, mid-day and evening shifts as needed.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-demand environment while maintaining quality.
• Strong attendance and reliability to ensure consistent meal service for residents.