Cook, Per Diem

Specific Accountabilities

• Prepares or directs preparation of all foods - in all food preparation stations, indicated on menus, provided for patients, catering and cafeteria food service, using standardized recipes based on standard portion size directed by Executive Chef.
• Prepares food production schedules, meets serving line deadline.
• Estimates food requirements and controls serving portions, minimizing waste and leftovers; yet sufficiently covers amount needed on cafeteria line.
• Collaborates with Executive Chef to standardize and develop new recipes.
• Records temperatures of foods served to patients and records daily temperatures of all refrigerators and freezers.
• Ensures that all foods prepared meets quality standards for freshness, taste, and appearance.
• Uses proper food handling techniques to minimize cross contamination.
• Mixes ingredients according to recipes.
• Checks equipment and cooking area often to make sure safety and sanitation requirements are met.
• Reports repair and maintenance needs to Leadership.
• Cleans equipment, worktables, ranges, utensils, pots and pans, using proper techniques and cleaning solution.
• Ensures that required county, state and federal safe food handling and sanitary levels are maintained throughout the food preparation process.
• Assists customers with checkout transactions and cash handling as necessary.

Position Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Two years of cooking experience in a commercial kitchen.
• Experience in a healthcare setting preferred.
• Knowledge of cooking methods/procedures, including types of preparation and related routines.
• Ability to use the inventory to avoid waste.
• Current Washington State Food Handlers Permit.

Competencies

• Demonstrates competency on equipment listed on department specific checklist.
• Critical thinking skills: Seeks resources for direction, when necessary. Performs independent problem solving.
• Decision-making is logical and deliberate.
• Performs actions that demonstrate accountability. Exercises safe judgment in decision-making.
• Demonstrates competency in ability to care for customers/patients across the age continuum.

Physical Requirements

• Moderate physical effort (lift/carry up to 25 lbs).
• Frequent prolonged standing/walking.
• Pushes/pulls or moves/lifts heavy equipment/supplies.
• Considerable reaching, kneeling, bending, stooping, and crouching.
• Ability to communicate using verbal and/or written skills for accurate exchange of information with physicians, nurses, health care professionals, patients and/or family, and the public.