Cook

CH_050 Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca, Inc.; Hayts Corner (NY); On-site; USD 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Cayuga Health is seeking a Production Cook for Cayuga Medical Center's Nutrition & Dining team in Ithaca, NY. You will work under the Executive Chef to produce high-quality meals for patients and staff in a fast-paced, safety-conscious environment.

The role requires 2+ years of food service experience and knowledge of food safety. Onsite shifts, with days/evenings, and a competitive hourly wage are offered along with benefits.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation and large-scale production techniques.
• Ability to follow standardized recipes and production guidelines.
• Experience in a high-volume food service environment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare hot and cold food items according to standardized recipes.
• Scale recipes accurately while maintaining quality and presentation.
• Adhere to local, state, and federal food safety regulations and document accordingly.
• Complete temperature logs and safety checks to ensure patient safety.
• Maintain production and storage areas in inspection-ready condition.

Skills

Food safety knowledge

Large-scale production

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

About Cayuga Health Cayuga Health offers patient-centered, comprehensive health services at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca; Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls; and more than 40 medical offices in the Finger Lakes and Central New York. Cayuga Health employs more than 450 providers from 40+ specialties. Additional services include a neo-natal intensive care unit, a home health care agency, an addiction recovery organization, and a skilled nursing facility. Cayuga Health is a member of Centralus Health, a community-based integrated delivery system. Our mission is to deliver high-quality care, empower our teams to succeed, and improve the wellbeing of the communities we serve. Our commitment to quality personalized care begins with our exceptional team—over 6500 employees strong. At Cayuga Health, you will work in a collaborative environment that values excellence, integrity, compassion and stewardship. Together, we create an environment where empathy, honesty and a dedication to quality thrive, empowering us to make a positive impact on the lives we touch. We offer competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and professional development opportunities to help our employees grow and thrive. Whether you are just starting your career or taking the next step in healthcare, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of care in our communities. Learn more at www.cayugahealth.org.

Position Overview

Cook- Cayuga Medical Center Nutrition & Dining- Full Time- Days/Evenings FLEX. When two established local health systems unite as one collaborative network, healthcare becomes so much more. Centralus Health, an affiliation of Cayuga Health and Arnot Health, is focused on our region's changing needs and your wellbeing. More than a group of experienced caregivers, Centralus Health is a partnership of advocates who strive to eliminate barriers to better health, innovating and evolving services in our communities for enhanced holistic care close to home. Centralus Health is central to wellness-for all of us.

Role Summary

The Production Cook is responsible for large-scale food production to support patient meals and retail dining outlets. Under the direction of the Executive Chef, this role ensures high-quality, nutritious food is prepared and served in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations while delivering person-centered service to patients, visitors, and staff.

Responsibilities

• Prepare hot and cold food items in accordance with standardized recipes and production guidelines
• Scale recipes accurately while maintaining quality, consistency, and presentation standards
• Adhere to all local, state, and federal food safety and sanitation regulations, including proper documentation
• Complete temperature logs and food safety checks to ensure compliance and patient safety
• Maintain food production and storage areas in inspection-ready condition using established cleaning schedules
• Utilize the Food Service Management system daily for production tracking and operational support
• Assist with catering services, menu development, and implementation as needed
• Monitor overproduction and food waste and actively implement strategies to minimize waste
• Demonstrate flexibility by assisting with other related duties as operational needs require

Required Skills and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Minimum of 2 years of food service experience in large-volume or batch cooking environments
• Demonstrated knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and large-scale production techniques

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Associate degree or formal culinary training
• ServSafe certification
• Preferred skills are not required to be considered for this role.

Physical Requirements

• Standing for extended periods of time
• Lifting, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds
• Reaching, bending, and repetitive motions
• Working in environments with exposure to heat, cold, noise, wet or slippery surfaces, and sharp objects
• Ability to safely navigate a fast-paced food production environment
• Valid driver's license may be required based on operational needs

Location, Travel and Shift Requirements

Onsite - Cayuga Medical Center: 101 Dates Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850

Shift: Days/Evenings- Exact shift hours to be discussed during interview

0% travel expected for this role

Pay Range Disclosure

Standard rate of $19.04 - $24.75 per hour, plus benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Centralus and its affiliates are committed to treating all patients, providers, staff and volunteers equitably and with dignity, ensuring the highest levels of safety, care and respect, and striving to recognize and overcome biases and policies that contribute to disparities in healthcare access, equitable care and positive health outcomes for all. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, supporting the growth and health of our employees and community by embracing the rich diversity, needs and circumstances of all peoples and prioritizing opportunities to build a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable protected characteristics.

If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact the Centralus Talent Acquisition team at [e-mail].

We're excited you're considering joining our team. At Centralus Health, we foster a culture of care, trust, and belonging. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to grow and thrive in your career while making meaningful connections with patients, families, colleagues, and communities.