Cook – Dietary Department

Oak Creek Terrace

Job Type: Full-Time

Location: Oak Creek Terrace

Department: Dietary

Reports To: Food Service Manager

About Oak Creek Terrace

At Oak Creek Terrace, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and creating a warm, supportive environment for our residents. Our Dietary Team plays a vital role in ensuring our residents receive nutritious, high-quality meals every day. We are seeking a skilled and dependable Cook to join our team and help support our mission.

Position Summary

The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving meals that meet nutritional standards, follow established menus, and comply with dietary needs. This role ensures that food service operations run smoothly, safely, and with a commitment to quality.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Meal Service

·        Prepare meals according to standardized recipes, planned menus, and special diet orders.

·        Ensure meals are appetizing, properly portioned, and served at correct temperatures.

·        Review menus before preparation to ensure accuracy and readiness.

·        Maintain timeliness and quality in meal preparation and service.

Safety, Sanitation & Compliance

·        Follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection-control procedures.

·        Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen area.

·        Report equipment issues, incidents, or hazards promptly.

Inventory & Kitchen Operations

·        Ensure adequate food and supply levels are maintained.

·        Assist with receiving, labeling, storing, and rotating incoming products.

·        Prepare ingredients needed for upcoming meals.

Teamwork & Support

·        Work collaboratively with the Food Service Manager and Dietitian.

·        Provide direction or support to dietary staff when needed.

·        Participate in training, in-service education, and orientation of new team members.

Resident Rights & Conduct

·        Maintain confidentiality of resident information at all times.

·        Demonstrate professionalism, empathy, and a positive attitude.

Qualifications

Education

Minimum of a 10th-grade education.

Experience

Previous cooking experience in a healthcare, institutional, or restaurant setting required.

Physical Requirements

·        Ability to lift and move items over 50 lbs.

·        Ability to stand, bend, and move throughout the shift.

·        Must be in good physical and emotional health.

·        Must be able to read, write, and communicate in English.

Professional Requirements

·        Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

·        Strong decision-making skills and ability to work independently when needed.

·        Ability to handle the physical, mental, and emotional demands of the role.

·        Positive, team-focused attitude.

Working Conditions

·        Warm kitchen environment with intermittent exposure to hot and cold temperatures.

·        Exposure to standard kitchen hazards (burns, spills, equipment, etc.).

·        Possible contact with cleaning chemicals or infectious materials.

·        Frequent standing, lifting, bending, and moving throughout the workday.

·        Occasional interruptions and fast-paced environment.