Cook – Assisted Living & Memory Care

SUMMERPLACE in; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Team environment

Skill development opportunities

Consistent dining schedule

Job summary

Columbia Place is seeking a Cook to prepare nutritious meals for residents in a busy, high-volume kitchen. You will follow established menus and dietary guidelines while ensuring food quality and safe handling practices.

Experience in assisted living or healthcare kitchens is preferred, with emphasis on teamwork and consistent meal service. This on-site role supports residents with timely, appetizing dining experiences.

Qualifications

• At least one year of cooking experience preferred in assisted living, senior living, healthcare, or high-volume kitchens.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and proper handling.
• Oregon Food Handler Card or ability to obtain one; ServSafe certification as required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals for residents according to menus, recipes, and portion guidelines.
• Ensure meals are appealing, properly prepared, and served at correct temperatures.
• Monitor temperatures and follow safe food handling practices.

Skills

Cooking experience

Food safety

Follow recipes

Team player

Job description

What You'll Do

• Prepare and cook delicious, nutritious meals for our assisted living and memory care residents.
• Follow established menus, recipes, and portion guidelines while maintaining food quality and consistency.
• Prepare meals for residents with special dietary needs, including modified textures and pureed diets.
• Ensure meals are appealing, properly prepared, and served at appropriate temperatures.
• Monitor and document food temperatures and follow safe food handling practices.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen.
• Follow daily cleaning schedules and food safety procedures.
• Assist with meal service and work closely with dietary aides to ensure residents receive their meals on time.
• Help maintain kitchen supplies, equipment, and food storage areas.
• Communicate with the Dietary Manager and other team members regarding resident preferences, dietary needs, and concerns.
• Assist with training and supporting other dietary staff as needed.
• Help oversee kitchen operations in the absence of the Dietary Manager.

What We're Looking For

• At least one year of cooking experience preferred, ideally in assisted living, senior living, healthcare, or another high-volume kitchen.
• Ability to prepare quality meals in large quantities.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and proper food handling procedures.
• Ability to follow recipes, menus, and special diet instructions accurately.
• Oregon Food Handler Card or ability to obtain one before handling food; ServSafe certification as required for the position.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Dependable, hardworking, and able to stay organized in a busy kitchen.
• A positive attitude and willingness to work as part of a team.
• A genuine desire to provide residents with an excellent dining experience.

Why Work at Columbia Place?

At Columbia Place, we value employees who take pride in their work, support their coworkers, and genuinely care about the residents we serve.

• A supportive, team-oriented work environment.
• The opportunity to build meaningful relationships with residents.
• A consistent dining environment with established menus and meal schedules.
• Opportunities to develop your cooking skills and take on additional responsibilities.
• A workplace where your hard work and contributions are appreciated.

Physical Requirements

This position involves frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Must be comfortable working in a busy kitchen environment and performing the physical responsibilities of food preparation and meal service. Reasonable accommodations may be available.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applicants of every race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, and any other protected characteristic. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.