Dietary Cook

Vibrant Life Senior Living - Kalamazoo; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 21,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Insurance

Vacation pay

Sick time

Referral bonus

401(k) plan

Paychex app benefits

Job summary

Vibrant Life Senior Living - Kalamazoo is seeking a dedicated Dietary Cook to prepare nutritious, delicious, and visually appealing meals for residents. You will help create a warm dining experience every day, following established menus and dietary guidelines.

The role requires at least 1 year of cooking experience, knowledge of food safety, and the ability to read and follow instructions in English. Join a supportive, mission-driven team with competitive benefits and opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year of cooking experience.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation procedures.
• Ability to read, write and follow written and verbal instructions in English.
• Strong teamwork and reliability in fast-paced settings.
• Must meet state and federal health regulations, including background check.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve meals according to established menus and dietary guidelines.
• Ensure all food is prepared safely and hygiene standards are followed.
• Monitor inventory and ensure timely preparation of meals and substitutions.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant kitchen environment.
• Support and train dietary aides; supervise the team in the Director’s absence.

Skills

Cooking

Teamwork

English proficiency

Job description

Vibrant Life Senior Living sets itself apart from other assisted living communities by creating personalized plans that emphasize healthy living. We focus on healthy lifestyles, building meaningful relationships, and providing activities and experiences that people who live in Vibrant Life have always loved to do. Our passionate CareFriends are trained to provide loving, quality care while helping residents create, maintain, and enhance personal relationships. Our residents stay active, safe, and healthy through daily movement programs, physical therapy, and a healthy diet that blends comfort foods with nutrition. Specialized diets for those who require low-salt, low-sugar, or any other dietary need are available. By providing a foundation for good physical, stimulating cognitive, and strong emotional and mental health, Vibrant Life helps residents continue to live their own vibrant life! Make a difference through food and care. We’re looking for a dedicated Dietary Cook to join our team at Vibrant Life Senior Living! In this role, you’ll prepare nutritious, delicious, and visually appealing meals for our residents — helping to create a warm and welcoming dining experience every day.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (BCBSM) - available after 90 days
• Paid Vacation Time (VTO)
• Earned Sick Time
• Referral Bonus - earn up to $750 (paid out over one year)
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• CNA Program ReimbursementAdditional benefits available through our Paychex app, including: Disability Insurance, Employee Loans, Pay-on-Demand Access

What You’ll Do

• Prepare and serve meals according to established menus, recipes, and dietary guidelines.
• Ensure all food is prepared and handled safely, following sanitation and hygiene standards.
• Monitor food and supply inventory, and ensure timely preparation of meals and substitutions.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant kitchen environment.
• Support and train dietary aides when needed; supervise the team in the Director’s absence.
• Build positive relationships with residents and teammates, contributing to a compassionate, person-centered community.
• Participate in meetings and training sessions as assigned.
• Perform additional duties as directed by the Director of Dining Services.

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum of 1 year of cooking experience, preferably in senior living, healthcare, or large-volume food service.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and infection control procedures.
• Ability to read, write, and follow written and verbal instructions in English.
• Strong teamwork, reliability, and a positive attitude — even in fast-paced settings.
• Must meet all state and federal health regulations, including background check and post-offer physical exam.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent bending, lifting, walking, and pushing food carts.
• Use of hands for cutting, peeling, chopping, and other cooking tasks.
• Safe body mechanics and attention to kitchen safety are required at all times.

Why Join Vibrant Life Senior Living?

• Be part of a supportive, mission-driven team that values compassion and connection.
• Enjoy a positive, people-centered workplace where your work truly makes an impact.
• Competitive pay, growth opportunities, and a fulfilling role serving others.

Vibrant Life Senior Living is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.