This position is responsible for carrying out a wide range of tasks related to food production and meal preparation for the meal services of the residents. They are expected to follow seasonal cycle menus and ensure that the meals are prepared to meet the highest standards of quality and taste. The scope of their responsibilities also extends to preparing other meals as per the administrative approval. In addition to preparing the meals, they are expected to ensure that the kitchen and dining areas are kept clean and hygienic at all times, and that all food handling and storage procedures are followed as per the relevant health and safety regulations. The person in this role should have a good understanding of different cooking techniques and be able to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. They should also be able to communicate effectively with other members of the kitchen and dining staff to ensure that all tasks are completed in a timely and coordinated manner. ESSENTIAL DUTIES and/or RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:
- Based on the seasonal cycle menus and standardized recipes, determine the appropriate amount of food to prepare for each meal and snack.
- Adhere to prescribed diet orders when preparing and serving food, and ensure proper food handling techniques are utilized.
- Maintain high levels of personal hygiene and practice food safety and sanitation measures consistently.
- Participate in receiving, checking, and storing food supplies as required.
- Thoroughly clean dishes, pans, skillets, flatware, glasses, trays, and utensils after each meal.
- Handle kitchen equipment with care, following safety procedures and performing regular cleaning and maintenance.
- Complete assigned cleaning tasks to ensure the kitchen is kept clean and sanitary on a daily basis.
- Take daily food and equipment temperature readings and record them accurately.
- Perform any additional duties related to food production and meal preparation as required and requested.
QUALIFICIATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
- Must possess a High School Diploma or equivalency.
- (6) Months to (1) year experience preferred in quantity cooking and preparing therapeutic diets.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, and/or REGISTRATIONS:
- Must pass background check and pre-employment drug screen.
- Food handler's certification preferred or able to obtain within 90 days.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Able to stand and walk for extended periods of time as required for the job.
- Frequently handles objects weighing up to 10 pounds and occasionally handles objects weighing up to 100 pounds.
- Exposed to potential hazards such as cuts, bruises, burns, and slip-and-fall injuries from wet floors.
- Works in a well-lit, clean kitchen and dishwashing area that may be hot at times.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and/or ABILITIES:
- Ability to read and write English.
- Must possess excellent customer service skills.
Must pass background check, physical, and pre-employment drug screen.