Position Title: Cook

Classification: Nonexempt

Reports To: Dietary Manager

Summary/Objective:

The Cook will support the day-to-day operations within the dietary department for our Assisted Living facilities. Role and responsibilities: To prepare and serve appealing, appetizing and nourishing food to residents while maintaining a safe and sanitary dining experience in compliance with Assisted Living regulations and SHO policies.

Essential Functions:

• Prepares and cooks meals in accordance with the dietary menu, and documents any required substitutions
• Prepare and serve meals that are palatable and appetizing in appearance
• May prepare alternate menu selections for residents who require special accommodations
• May assist in the preparation, set-up and cleaning for all meals and snacks including special meals, meetings and parties
• Clear dining room, wash and put away dishes and cookware following each meal and snack
• Complete daily and periodic cleaning duties per schedule ensuring the kitchen is clean in accordance with regulations and SHO policies
• As feasible fulfill resident requests for special food/snacks during and between meals
• Serve food to residents in accordance with portion control procedures
• Assists in inventory, receiving and storage food supplies
• Consistently acts to promote teamwork in providing the best possible dietary service to our residents with a focus on health and wellness
• May provide on the job training and orientation programs for new dietary employees
• Always follows dietary policies and procedures
• All staff in food services must be trained in the following within 30 days:

§ Safe Food Preparation and Storage

§ Food and Culture

§ Promoting Successful Nutrition

§ Proper Handwashing

• Promotes a safe working environment by inspecting all equipment before use
• Reports any accident/incident or hazards for employees or residents that occur in the kitchen or dining, no matter how insignificant
• Follow established infection control and universal precaution policies and procedures, as needed
• Adhere to all resident rights, including, privacy, confidentiality, and treating residents with dignity and respect at all times
• Perform other duties as assigned

Work Environment:

• May be exposed to heat/cold temperatures in kitchen/storage area
• May be required to lift, push, pull and move equipment, supplies in excess of fifty pounds.
• Standing for long periods, sitting and walking intermittently
• Subject to falls, burns, odors, throughout the work day and the risk of injury from physical requirements of the job
• Is subject to exposure to infectious waste, diseases, conditions including HIV and Hepatitis B viruses

Competencies:

• Commitment to fulfilling the mission of Senior Housing Options, Inc. to provide safe, comfortable housing for seniors and people with disabilities
• Maintain a professional demeanor and respond with urgency
• Understanding of discretion needed in handling confidential information
• Self-directed, accountable for results and proactive; independent problem solver
• Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing, including the ability to provide non-

technical assistance in a simple, straightforward manner

• Demonstrate sensitivity to the concerns of residents and a commitment to dealing fairly with all
• Friendly, professional demeanor, positive disposition, tactful, patience and high ethical character even while dealing with difficult or upset residents
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills; attention to detail
• Driving is not permitted nor required of this position
• Medication administration to residents is strictly prohibited

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; culinary training preferred
• 2-3 years prior working experience in a kitchen environment required
• Prior working experience cooking and serving meals to an elderly and/or disabled population preferred
• Ability to read, write, speak and understand the English language fluently, and communicate verbally and in writing at a professional level

Expected Hours of Work:

This role may be full-time, part-time or on-call. Shifts are available 24 hours a day, seven (7) days per week. May be called during off hours to respond to emergency or unusual situations.