Cook (Full-time)

Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay & Senior Options, LLC; Virginia Beach (VA); On-site; USD 22,592 - 26,560; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Tuition Assistance

Job summary

Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay & Senior Options, LLC is seeking a dedicated Cook located in Virginia Beach, VA. In this role, you will prepare fresh, high-quality meals according to established standards, ensuring the best dining experience for residents and guests. Responsibilities include hot food preparation, maintaining cleanliness and safety in the kitchen, and adhering to health regulations. The ideal candidate should possess strong communication skills and a comprehensive knowledge of food safety and preparation techniques. This position offers competitive compensation with full-time benefits including medical insurance.

Qualifications

• Must be at least eighteen years old.
• Comprehensive knowledge of food preparation and handling techniques.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for hot food preparation, including accompaniments and garnishes.
• Correctly prepare hot entrees, soups, and vegetables following recipes.
• Serve tastily prepared food items according to provided recipes.

Skills

Food preparation knowledge

Communication skills

Safety and sanitation practices

Job description

Location: 3100 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA Reports To: Sous Chef FLSA: Non‑Exempt (Hourly) Schedule: Day Shifts (Our dining rooms close at 7pm) - Must be available to work rotating weekends

Behind every delicious meal and memorable dining experience is our incredible Dining Services Team — a dedicated group of Dining Room, Catering, Culinary and Nutrition Care professionals who bring passion, creativity, and care to every plate they serve. From perfectly prepared dishes to friendly, attentive service, this hardworking team goes above and beyond to make every meal special for our residents, staff and visitors alike. Their teamwork, attention to detail, and genuine love for what they do, creates not just great food, but a true sense of community around the table.

About Us

Founded in 1982, Westminster‑Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay is a not‑for‑profit, faith‑based Life Plan Community. Located along the southern shore of Chesapeake Bay, our scenic, resort‑style campus is home to a vibrant community of residents and staff who share a passion for service, joy, and well‑being.

We Live Our Values Every Day

• Respect for every person
• Passion for what we do
• Professionalism in all we do

Apply today and help us bring wellness, joy, and energy to the heart of our community!

The Cook will prepare food in accordance with current applicable federal, state and local standards, guidelines and regulations, with our established policies and procedures, and as may be directed by the Lead Cook, Sous Chef and/or Executive Chef to ensure that quality food service is provided at all times. Responsibilities include but are not limited to hot food preparation, including accompaniment and garnishes.

What You Will Do

• Responsible for hot food preparation, including accompaniments and garnishes.
• Correctly prepare hot entrees, soups and vegetables following preparation sheets and provided recipes for main dining room, healthcare, resident café, employee dining room and any special functions.
• Correctly prepare and creatively assemble cold appetizers, salads, cold entrees following preparation sheets and provided recipes for main dining room, healthcare, resident café, employee dining room and any special functions.
• Does advance preparation as indicated.
• Serve tasteful and eye appealing food items following provided recipes.
• Complete food temperature checks at each meal. Record these in the temperature log book.
• Complete preparation and productivity records as specified by the production system and stores food items properly at the close of meal service.
• Clean work area and equipment used in food preparation.
• Follow safety and sanitation rules and practices.
• Ensure that all hot food preparation and assembling is done in accordance with established procedures.
• Demonstrate knowledge of fire safety procedures and assists with evacuation of kitchen areas to safe locations in event of fire or other emergency.
• Cooperate with staff of other departments in performing job duties.
• Must take necessary precautions and follow correct procedures for lifting and bending.
• Provide a clean, safe, and neat environment for residents, self and staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Core Competencies

• Demonstrate clear, professional, and respectful verbal and written communication.
• Build positive relationships and show sensitivity, patience, and genuine interest in others, particularly older adults.
• Able to work well independently given proper direction.
• Apply simple math concepts accurately in daily tasks.

Required

• Must be a minimum of eighteen (18) years of age.
• Comprehensive knowledge of food preparation and handling techniques.
• General knowledge of safety and sanitation rules and practices.
• Has the ability to cope with some problems. Confers with Lead Cook/Sous Chef regarding unusual problems.
• Ability to read, write, speak and understand English.
• Will be available to work weekends, holidays, nights, and special events.
• Flu Vaccinated.

Preferred

• Prior cooking experience in food.
• COVID‑19 Vaccinated. As of now, the 2025–2026 COVID‑19 vaccine formulation is being distributed to providers and pharmacies; however, it has not yet received official approval from the CDC. In Virginia, pharmacists may administer COVID‑19 vaccines under the Virginia Board of Pharmacy’s statewide protocols or with a direct order from a licensed medical provider. We encourage all new hires to consult with their healthcare provider regarding the most current vaccination recommendations. Please be aware that, depending on future CDC guidance or regulatory updates, we may require proof of the most recent COVID‑19 vaccination as part of our ongoing commitment to health and safety.

Physical Requirements

• Capable of lifting up to twenty‑five (25) pounds or more.
• Capable of standing and maneuvering independently and safely around the work area.
• Capable of standing on a tile floor for an eight‑hour shift.
• Ability to see and hear, or to use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately to assure that position requirements can be fully met.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to operate a fire extinguisher and to manipulate kitchen equipment, including slicer, chopper, processor, knives, etc.

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation Range: $16.40 to $19.28 (based on relevant experience)
• Full‑Time Employee (and eligible Part‑Time Employee) Benefits Include:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance (Available Day One!)
  • Life & Disability Insurance (Short‑and Long‑Term)
  • Retirement Plan with Employer Match
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & 6 Paid Holidays (+ 2 Floating Holidays)
  • Tuition Assistance + Scholarships for You & Your Family
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Legal/Identity Theft Protection Plans
  • Team Member Discounts
  • Career Growth & Leadership Development Opportunities

At‑Will Employment Statement: Employment with our organization is “at‑will,” meaning that either the employee or the employer may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, and for any reason not prohibited by law.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by applicable laws.