Cook - Assisted Living Community

Comfort Hills Health Care; Blaine (MN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A senior living community is seeking a Cook to prepare and serve nutritious meals for residents, ensuring adherence to dietary requirements and food safety standards. The ideal candidate will be experienced in food service and possess knowledge of basic food safety practices. Responsibilities include meal preparation, maintaining a clean kitchen, and providing a welcoming dining experience. Must have the ability to communicate effectively and lift up to 50 pounds. This position requires collaboration with the culinary team and interaction with residents.

Qualifications

• Experience in food service or a kitchen environment preferred.
• Basic food safety and sanitation practices knowledge.
• Ability to follow recipes and instructions accurately.
• Effective communication with team members and residents.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Prepares and cooks scheduled meals according to menus.
• Ensures meals are ready and served on time.
• Follows food safety and hygiene procedures.
• Interacts with residents in a friendly manner.
• Works collaboratively with team members.

Skills

Experience in food service

Knowledge of food safety practices

Ability to follow recipes

Effective communication

Job description

The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, appealing meals for residents in accordance with planned menus, dietary requirements, and food safety standards. This role supports the community dining program by ensuring meals are prepared on time, follow standardized recipes, and meet resident needs. The Cook contributes to a welcoming, person-centered dining experience that reflects the values of Home, Care, and Comfort.

JOB SUMMARY

The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, appealing meals for residents in accordance with planned menus, dietary requirements, and food safety standards. This role supports the community dining program by ensuring meals are prepared on time, follow standardized recipes, and meet resident needs. The Cook contributes to a welcoming, person-centered dining experience that reflects the values of Home, Care, and Comfort.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Meal Preparation & Service

• Prepares and cooks scheduled meals in accordance with posted menus and standardized recipes.


• Ensures meals are ready and served on time.


• Follows portion control and plating guidelines to ensure consistency and quality.


• Prepares alternate meal options as directed.


• Adjusts meal preparation to accommodate therapeutic or modified diets as instructed.

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Follows all food safety and hygiene procedures at all times.


• Maintains clean and sanitary work areas, equipment, and kitchen spaces.


• Completes daily cleaning tasks and sanitation checklists.


• Records and monitors food temperatures and storage logs as required.


• Assists with maintaining compliance during health inspections.

Resident Experience

• Ensures meals are presented in an appealing and appetizing manner.


• Interacts with residents in a friendly and respectful way during meal service.


• Reports resident feedback or concerns to the Culinary Manager or leadership team.

Team Support

• Works collaboratively with Culinary Assistants and other team members to ensure smooth meal service.


• Follows daily prep lists and task assignments provided by leadership.


• Assists with setup, service, and cleanup as needed.

Inventory & Kitchen Support

• Assists with receiving and storing food and supplies properly.


• Helps monitor inventory levels and communicates shortages to leadership.


• Minimizes food waste by following proper preparation and storage procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS
Required

• Experience in food service or a kitchen environment preferred.


• Knowledge of basic food safety and sanitation practices.


• Ability to follow recipes and instructions accurately.


• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and residents.


• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred

• Experience in senior living, healthcare, or similar setting.


• Experience preparing special or therapeutic diets.


• Food safety certification (or willingness to obtain).

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Works in a senior living community including kitchen and dining areas.


• Exposure to heat, cold, noise, and cleaning chemicals.


• Fast-paced, team-oriented environment with moderate physical activity.


• May require weekends or holidays based on schedule.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting.


• Regular use of kitchen equipment and tools.


• Ability to lift or move items up to 50 pounds.