Cook Full-Time

Westgate-Gardens-Care-Center; Visalia (CA); On-site; USD 24,218 - 24,521; Full time

Job summary

Westgate Gardens Care Center in Visalia, CA is seeking a dependable Cook to join our dietary team. This full-time role prepares meals per planned menus, adheres to dietary requirements, and ensures safe, attractive entries for residents in a skilled nursing facility.

The ideal candidate has a high school diploma, 1+ year hospital/long-term care cooking experience, and ServSafe certification (or will obtain). Strong teamwork and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced kitchen are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of one year cooking experience in a hospital or long‑term care setting preferred.
• ServSafe certification required (or obtained upon hire).
• Ability to read and follow recipes, menus, and dietary instructions.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals in large quantities based on approved menus.
• Follow portion control guidelines and accommodate special diets (texture-modified/therapeutic).
• Record and monitor food temperatures to safety standards.
• Maintain a clean, sanitary kitchen and cooking environment.
• Assist with meal service and ensure appealing presentation.
• Maintain sanitation practices including sanitizer levels.
• Assist with inventory and storage of food and supplies.
• Supervise dietary staff in the absence of the Dietary Supervisor.

Skills

Strong communication

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Read recipes

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

ServSafe certification

Job description

Cook (Full-Time)Westgate Gardens Care Center – Visalia, CAPay Range: $17.58 – $17.80 per hour (DOE)Westgate Gardens Care Center is seeking a dependable and experienced Cook to join our dietary team. As a skilled nursing facility, we are committed to providing high-quality care—and that starts with nutritious, well-prepared meals for our residents.General OverviewThe Cook is responsible for preparing and serving meals in accordance with planned menus, dietary requirements, and regulatory standards. This role ensures that all food is prepared safely, served attractively, and meets the individual needs of our residents.Key ResponsibilitiesPrepare and cook meals in large quantities based on approved menus.Follow portion control guidelines and accommodate special diets, including texture-modified and therapeutic diets.Record and monitor food temperatures in compliance with safety regulations.Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary kitchen and cooking environment.Assist with meal service and ensure food is presented in an appealing manner.Maintain proper sanitation practices, including quaternary solution levels in sanitizer buckets.Clean cooking areas, equipment, and serving carts after use.Assist with inventory and ensure proper storage of food and supplies.Supervise dietary staff in the absence of the Dietary Supervisor.Participate in staff orientation, training, and ongoing education.Work collaboratively with dietary staff and other departments to support resident care.QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent required.Minimum of one (1) year cooking experience in a hospital or long-term care setting preferred.ServSafe certification required (or must be obtained upon hire).Ability to read and follow recipes, menus, and dietary instructions.Strong communication and teamwork skills.Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with attention to detail.Physical RequirementsAbility to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods.Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.Ability to perform repetitive kitchen tasks and operate cooking equipment safely.Why Join Us?Supportive and team-oriented work environmentOpportunity to make a meaningful impact on residents’ daily livesStable, rewarding position in healthcareAdditional InformationThis job description is not intended to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities. Management reserves the right to assign or reassign duties as necessary.Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) StatementWestgate Gardens Care Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.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.