COOK - Residential Treatment Facility (Maples

The Maples is a growing network of physician-driven psychiatric practices with over 25 years of management experience within the behavioral health industry. We guide practices across Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas, leveraging an expansive network of over 400 staff members, including psychiatrists, psychologists, nurse practitioners, mental health therapists, and recreational therapists.

About the role

The Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals that meet the dietary needs of our residents. This role ensures compliance with state nutrition guidelines, food safety regulations, and individual dietary plans while maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook balanced meals for residents and staff, ensuring they meet nutritional guidelines and dietary restrictions.
• Follow pre-established menus while accommodating special dietary needs, including allergies, eating disorders, and therapeutic meal plans.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen, including food storage, prep areas, and equipment.
• Adhere to all food safety and sanitation standards as required by state and local health regulations.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate food orders with the facility administrator.
• Minimize food waste through effective portion control and storage management.
• Assist in meal planning and preparation for special events or holiday celebrations within the facility.
• Work collaboratively with clinical and dietary staff to ensure meals support residents’ treatment plans.
• Maintain proper documentation for food preparation, storage temperatures, and meal distribution.
• Ensure a positive and supportive dining environment that encourages healthy eating habits and social engagement.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Culinary certification, food service training, or experience working in a residential, healthcare, or institutional kitchen preferred.
• Experience preparing meals for individuals with dietary restrictions and special nutritional needs.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, including HACCP, ServSafe, or other food handling certifications (or willingness to obtain certification upon hire).
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high-quality food standards.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to lift, carry, and transport food items and supplies as needed.
• Passion for creating nutritious and delicious meals that contribute to the overall well-being of adolescents.

Physical Demands

• Full range of physical capabilities, including the ability to handle and lift items.
• Manual and finger dexterity, and good eye-hand coordination.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Occasionally lift and carry items up to 40 lbs.
• Corrected vision and hearing within the normal range.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential job functions.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) company matching.
• Short-term disability coverage.
• Paid holidays.
• Accrued paid time off.
• Other valuable offerings.