Cook

Position Summary:

The Cook is responsible for the quality preparation of meals and snacks, as well as ensuring food prepared meets nutritional and USDA requirements. The Cook also maintains clean, functioning, and safe kitchen equipment. Essential Job Functions include those listed below.

Essential Job Functions:

• Prepares meals, drinks, and snacks for program participants in accordance with approved menus, meeting all meal schedules;
• Maintains high (Health Department-approved) standards of cleanliness and sanitation, including wearing hair nets and/or caps at all times within food preparation and serving areas;
• Maintains 100% compliance with the State Health Codes relating to the operations of a Grade A kitchen;
• Prepares requisitions for food, drinks, supplies, and other commodities as needed;
• Receives and properly stores all deliveries, and maintains the kitchen inventory;
• Ensures kitchen equipment remains in good operating condition, is clean, and temperatures are kept within proper standards;
• Labels, dates, and stores food, leftovers, and ingredients in accordance with proper health and safety standards;
• Maintains a current and up-to-date inventory of all food, commodities, and supplies;
• Ensures that healthy and nutritious meals are provided to program residents;
• Documents food costs and State requirements for dietary, safety, and cleanliness;
• Provides holidays meals for parties as required;
• Assists other WestCare staff as needed to promote cooperation and portray a professional image to the community;
• Embraces and embodies the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision and goals of WestCare Foundation;
• Performs any other duties as assigned.

Certifications/Licensures:

• ServSafe or similar certification and/or licensure is preferred; preference will be given to certified candidates;
• Valid drivers license and the ability to obtain and maintain WestCares vehicle insurance is required.

Education:

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college with a degree in Culinary Arts or other field related to the position is preferred;
• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.

Experience and Competencies:

• Two (2) years experience working in a culinary, food, or kitchen environment is required;
• Ability to form and maintain effective, professional, and positive relationships with staff, volunteers, and program participants required;
• Ability to work well, both individually and as part of a team required;
• Ability to maintain excellent personal hygiene required;
• Adherence to the highest standards of ethical conduct required;
• Ability to exercise good judgement and discretion required;
• Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor required;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills required;
• Experience leading, supervising, and motivating a team is preferred;

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in an office or kitchen setting;
• Occasional outdoor work and travel between multiple locations may be required;
• Regular and prompt attendance is required throughout employment;