Dietary Cook

Americare Senior Living; Centralia (MO); On-site; USD 22,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Daily pay access

PTO

Healthcare options

401(k) with company match

Tuition assistance

Free meals during shifts

Employee recognition

Job summary

Americare Senior Living is seeking a Dietary Cook to prepare meals and beverages for residents in our Skilled Nursing community in Centralia, MO. You will follow dietary guidelines, maintain a clean kitchen, and work as part of a caring, collaborative team.

Roles may be full-time or part-time, with competitive pay and benefits. Health insurance and meal perks are provided. Join a community focused on respect, compassion, and resident wellbeing.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous experience in quantity food production, especially healthcare, is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals, snacks, and beverages for residents and staff.
• Follow dietician-approved menus and accommodate dietary needs.
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness and sanitation.
• Store, label, and organize food safely.
• Wash dishes and kitchen equipment.
• Set and clear tables for meals.

Skills

Team collaboration

Menu following

Food safety

Attention to detail

HIPAA/OSHA knowledge

Dependable and organized

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

PPE usage protocols

Kitchen equipment handling

Job description

Community: Heritage Hall Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing

Community Type: Skilled Nursing

Location: Centralia, MO

Shifts Available: Days/Evening 1pm-8pm

Employment Type: 1 Full-Time & 1 Part-Time

Pay: $16 hourly $17 after Shift Differentials

Why You’ll Love Working Here

We’re a team that believes in doing meaningful work — the kind that makes a real impact. When you join us, you’re not just stepping into a role; you’re stepping into a community that’s committed to your growth, your ideas, and your success. Here, you’ll collaborate with people who care deeply about what they do and support each other every step of the way. Be part of a great community with strong teamwork, an excellent nurse-to-resident ratio, and real opportunities to grow your career.

Make a Difference Every Day in Senior Living

Looking for a rewarding job in senior care where your work truly matters? At Americare Senior Living, you’ll build relationships, support residents, and be part of a team that feels like family.

Who We Are

• Trusted senior living provider with 40+ years of experience
• Guided by our RISING values: Respect
• Integrity
• Servant Heart
• Inspire
• Nurture
• Growth
• Known for Hometown Hospitality and small, family-like communities
• Recognized as a Great Place to Work and Best Workplaces in Aging Services

Why Join Americare

• Make a daily impact in resident care and quality of life
• Work in a supportive, team-focused environment
• Build meaningful relationships with residents and coworkers
• Join a culture focused on respect, compassion, and connection
• Flexible scheduling options to support your lifestyle

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive pay + annual increases
• Daily pay access (get paid when you need it)
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Tuition assistance and career growth opportunities
• Free meals during shifts
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs

Benefits may vary based on full-time, part-time or PRN status.

Your Role as the Dietary Cook

Skilled Nursing

Summary

The Dietary Cook is responsible for preparing meals, snacks, and beverages in accordance with dietician-approved menus, resident dietary needs, and all applicable health, safety, and sanitation guidelines. This role supports a clean, safe, and welcoming dining environment while collaborating with the dietary and care teams to deliver high-quality service.

This Role May Also Be Known As: Dietary Cook, Cook, Food Service Cook, or Kitchen Cook.

What You’ll Do

• Prepare and cook meals, snacks, and beverages for residents, visitors, and staff in a timely manner
• Follow dietician-approved menus and accommodate individual resident dietary needs
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen, dining, and food storage areas
• Store, label, and organize food in a safe and sanitary manner
• Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment
• Set and clear tables before and after meals
• Safely operate kitchen appliances and equipment
• Ensure work areas, utensils, and equipment are maintained in a sanitary and safe condition
• Adhere to company policies, procedures, and professional conduct standards
• Maintain resident confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA guidelines

What You Bring

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years of age
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Continuing education related to dietary services is a plus
• Previous experience in quantity food production preferred, especially in a healthcare or skilled nursing setting
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Knowledge of HIPAA, OSHA, and applicable state and federal regulations
• Familiarity with lock-out/tag-out procedures and use of personal protective equipment

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to follow menus, recipes, and dietary guidelines
• Strong attention to food safety, sanitation, and detail
• Dependable, organized, and service-oriented mindset

Physical Demands

• Stand, sit, walk, and change positions frequently
• Lift or carry up to 50 lbs.; push and pull up to 50 lbs.
• Use hands and arms to reach, balance, kneel, stoop, and bend
• Safely operate kitchen appliances, tools, and equipment

Safety Requirements

• Use carts when transporting food, supplies, and equipment
• Wear appropriate protective equipment when handling knives, sharp objects, and hot surfaces
• Wear skid-resistant, supportive footwear to prevent slips and falls
• Report work-related injuries within 12 hours and complete required documentation
• Participate in company drug testing procedures

Work Environment

This role is performed in a professional kitchen environment that includes the use of stoves, knives, dishwashers, walk-in refrigerators and coolers, trash receptacles, and other job-specific equipment. The environment is indoors with adequate lighting and ventilation.

Join Americare Senior Living and make a meaningful difference by providing nutritious meals and warm hospitality to residents in our Skilled Nursing community.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Americare Senior Living is committed to equal employment opportunities and welcomes applicants from all walks of life. We value diversity and strive to create a workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging.