Dietary Cook

Community: The Neighborhoods by TigerPlace Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing
Location: Columbia, MO
Shifts Available: Days
Employment Type: Part-Time
Pay: $17-$18.50 per hour

About the role

The Dietary Cook is responsible for preparing meals, snacks, and beverages in accordance with dietician-approved menus, resident dietary needs, and all applicable health, safety, and sanitation guidelines. This role supports a clean, safe, and welcoming dining environment while collaborating with the dietary and care teams to deliver high-quality service. This role may also be known as Dietary Cook, Cook, Food Service Cook, or Kitchen Cook.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals, snacks, and beverages for residents, visitors, and staff in a timely manner
• Follow dietician-approved menus and accommodate individual resident dietary needs
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen, dining, and food storage areas
• Store, label, and organize food in a safe and sanitary manner
• Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment
• Set and clear tables before and after meals
• Safely operate kitchen appliances and equipment
• Ensure work areas, utensils, and equipment are maintained in a sanitary and safe condition
• Adhere to company policies, procedures, and professional conduct standards
• Maintain resident confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA guidelines

Requirements

• Must be at least 16 years of age
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Continuing education related to dietary services is a plus
• Previous experience in quantity food production preferred, especially in a healthcare or skilled nursing setting
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Knowledge of HIPAA, OSHA, and applicable state and federal regulations
• Familiarity with lock-out/tag-out procedures and use of personal protective equipment

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to follow menus, recipes, and dietary guidelines
• Strong attention to food safety, sanitation, and detail
• Dependable, organized, and service-oriented mindset

Physical Demands

• Stand, sit, walk, and change positions frequently
• Lift or carry up to 50 lbs.; push and pull up to 50 lbs.
• Use hands and arms to reach, balance, kneel, stoop, and bend
• Safely operate kitchen appliances, tools, and equipment

Safety Requirements

• Use carts when transporting food, supplies, and equipment
• Wear appropriate protective equipment when handling knives, sharp objects, and hot surfaces
• Wear skid-resistant, supportive footwear to prevent slips and falls
• Report work-related injuries within 12 hours and complete required documentation
• Participate in company drug testing procedures

Work Environment

This role is performed in a professional kitchen environment that includes the use of stoves, knives, dishwashers, walk-in refrigerators and coolers, trash receptacles, and other job-specific equipment. The environment is indoors with adequate lighting and ventilation.

Benefits

• Recognition and appreciation with meaningful shout outs
• Family atmosphere and close-knit community
• Competitive paid time off (PTO) plan
• Daily access to wages
• Complimentary meals while you work
• Tuition assistance for career development
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability
• Annual wage increases based on performance
• 401(k) plan with company contributions

Why You’ll Love Working Here

Award-winning team with a meaningful impact on seniors' lives every day. Americare communities are certified as a Great Place to Work, ranked on Fortune’s Best Workplaces in Aging Services, and named one of the 2025 Best Senior Living providers by U.S. News & World Report.

• Impactful Work: Make a difference daily, receive plenty of hugs, and bring smiles to residents' faces.
• Supportive Community: Be part of a compassionate team that values teamwork and respect.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional and personal advancement, whether you're new or experienced.
• Fun and Engaging Environment: Work hard and have fun in an inclusive environment with lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy flexible scheduling options that fit your life.

Americare’s RISING Team Values guide everything we do: Respect, Integrity, Servant Heart, Inspire, Nurture, Growth.