Dietary Cook

Optalis Healthcare; Canton (CO); On-site; USD 19,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Optalis Healthcare is seeking a Cook to prepare and serve nutritious meals for residents in a compliant kitchen. You will follow planned menus, meet dietary needs, and ensure food safety.

The role emphasizes sanitation, teamwork, and attention to detail, with standing for long periods and lifting up to 40 lbs. Prefer 1+ year institutional food service experience; high school diploma preferred; healthcare dietary experience a plus.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• 1+ year institutional food service experience as a cook.
• Knowledge of food preparation, nutrition, and sanitation standards.
• Experience in healthcare dietary department preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare meals according to planned menus and standardized recipes.
• Ensure food is prepared and served at the proper temperature and time.
• Follow physician-ordered therapeutic diets and resident preferences.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen, equipment, and utensils.
• Monitor food storage, rotate stock, and minimize waste.
• Support survey readiness and food safety compliance.

Skills

Food preparation

Dietary knowledge

Time management

Teamwork & communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position Summary:

The Cook prepares and serves palatable, nutritious meals that meet residents' dietary needs and preferences in accordance with state and federal regulations. This role ensures food safety, sanitation, and quality standards while contributing to resident satisfaction and quality of life.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare meals according to planned menus and standardized recipes.
• Ensure food is prepared and served at the proper temperature and time.
• Follow physician-ordered therapeutic diets and resident preferences.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen, equipment, and utensils.
• Monitor food storage, rotate stock, and minimize waste.
• Support survey readiness and food safety compliance.

Skills & Competencies

• Knowledge of food preparation, nutrition, and sanitation standards.
• Ability to follow recipes and diet orders accurately.
• Time management and organizational skills.
• Teamwork and communication abilities.

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• 1+ year institutional food service experience as a cook.

Preferred:

• Experience in healthcare dietary department.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Standing/walking most of the shift.
• Ability to lift 5--40 lbs and push carts up to 300 lbs with assistance.
• Work in hot, humid kitchen environment with exposure to cleaning chemicals.

Personal Attributes:

• Dependability
• Respect for residents
• Integrity
• Attention to detail