Compassionate Senior Care Cook — Nutritious Meals & Safety

Vista Ridge Senior Care; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Vista Ridge Senior Care in Austin, TX is seeking a dependable Cook to prepare nutritious meals for residents, following prescribed diets and safety standards. The role emphasizes teamwork with dietary staff and nursing personnel while maintaining cleanliness and proper portion control.

The ideal candidate has prior cooking experience, healthcare kitchen exposure is a plus, and Texas Food Handler certification is required or must be obtained.

Qualifications

• Previous cooking experience required; healthcare setting experience preferred.
• Texas Food Handler certification required or must be obtained within the applicable timeframe.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and reliability.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks according to approved menus and resident dietary requirements.
• Follow therapeutic diets, modified textures, and special dietary instructions as directed by dietary staff.
• Ensure proper food portions and meal quantities to minimize food waste.
• Maintain proper food temperatures during preparation, storage, and service.
• Follow all food safety, infection control, and sanitation procedures.
• Label, date, rotate, and store food according to FIFO guidelines.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen and equipment.
• Monitor food inventory and communicate supply shortages to the Dietary Manager.
• Follow established meal schedules to ensure residents receive meals on time.
• Wear PPE and practice proper hand hygiene.
• Assist with cleaning, dishwashing, and other dietary department duties.
• Report food safety concerns and equipment malfunctions to management.
• Comply with Texas Health and Human Services, CMS, and facility standards.
• Work cooperatively with dietary staff, nursing personnel, and facility leadership.

Skills

Cooking

Food safety

Teamwork

Time management

Job description

Vista Ridge Senior Care in Austin, TX is seeking a dependable Cook to prepare nutritious meals for residents, following prescribed diets and safety standards. The role emphasizes teamwork with dietary staff and nursing personnel while maintaining cleanliness and proper portion control.

The ideal candidate has prior cooking experience, healthcare kitchen exposure is a plus, and Texas Food Handler certification is required or must be obtained.