Senior Cook

About the role

Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay is a not-for-profit, faith-based Life Plan Community located along the southern shore of Chesapeake Bay. Our mission is to enrich lives through the power of purpose, belonging, and wellness. We are seeking a Senior Cook to prepare hot food items for various dining venues and events.

The Senior Cook is responsible for preparing hot food items, following recipes, ensuring quality and safety standards, and working collaboratively within the culinary team. Flexibility to work weekends and holidays is required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and assemble hot and cold food items, including entrees, soups, vegetables, salads, appetizers, accompaniments, and garnishes, according to recipes and preparation sheets.
• Prepare food for multiple dining venues, including the main dining room, healthcare, resident café, employee dining, and special functions.
• Monitor and document food temperatures and maintain proper food storage and handling procedures.
• Complete required production and productivity records and ensure food is properly stored at the end of meal service.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area while following all food safety, sanitation, and equipment procedures.
• Support special functions and work effectively across various kitchen stations as needed.
• Collaborate with the Sous Chef and culinary team to address unusual or unexpected food preparation issues.
• Assist in training and mentoring fellow culinary team members and promote teamwork and professionalism.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• 1–3 years of experience in a professional, commercial, or institutional kitchen.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, food handling, and preparation.
• Ability to follow recipes and established procedures.
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and special events.
• Ability to maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Culinary Arts from an accredited program (preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in a high-volume food production setting (preferred).
• ServSafe Food Handler certification (preferred).
• Strong cooking and knife skills, with knowledge of seasoning, presentation, and quality control (preferred).

Skills

• Demonstrated team player attitude with great communication skills.
• Ability to engage with others.
• Able to work well independently given proper direction.
• Demonstrate a high level of sensitivity and interest in people.
• Show care and compassion for working with the senior population.
• Ability to work efficiently in a high-pressure environment, managing multiple tasks to meet strict, scheduled mealtimes.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move safely throughout the work area for extended periods, including shifts up to eight hours on hard surfaces.
• Ability to see, hear, and safely perform essential job functions, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to safely operate kitchen equipment, including knives, slicers, choppers, processors, and other food preparation tools.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance (Available Day One!).
• Life & Disability Insurance (Short- and Long-Term).
• Retirement Plan with Employer Match.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) & 6 Paid Holidays (+ 2 Floating Holidays).
• Tuition Assistance + Scholarships for You & Your Family.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Legal/Identity Theft Protection Plans.
• Team Member Discounts.
• Career Growth & Leadership Development Opportunities.

Pay

Compensation Range: $18.62 - $21.88 per hour (based on relevant experience).

Schedule

Full-time: 11:30am - 7:30pm; includes weekends and holidays.