Position Title: Cook

Classification: Nonexempt

Reports To: Dietary Manager

Summary/Objective:

The Cook will support the day-to-day operations within the dietary department for our Assisted Living facilities. Role and responsibilities: To prepare and serve appealing, appetizing and nourishing food to residents while maintaining a safe and sanitary dining experience in compliance with Assisted Living regulations and SHO policies.

Essential Functions:

· Prepares and cooks meals in accordance with the dietary menu, and documents any required substitutions

· Prepare and serve meals that are palatable and appetizing in appearance

· May prepare alternate menu selections for residents who require special accommodations

· May assist in the preparation, set-up and cleaning for all meals and snacks including special meals, meetings and parties

· Clear dining room, wash and put away dishes and cookware following each meal and snack

· Complete daily and periodic cleaning duties per schedule ensuring the kitchen is clean in accordance with regulations and SHO policies

· As feasible fulfill resident requests for special food/snacks during and between meals

· Serve food to residents in accordance with portion control procedures

· Assists in inventory, receiving and storage food supplies

· Consistently acts to promote teamwork in providing the best possible dietary service to our residents with a focus on health and wellness

· May provide on the job training and orientation programs for new dietary employees

· Always follows dietary policies and procedures

· All staff in food services must be trained in the following within 30 days:

§ Safe Food Preparation and Storage

§ Food and Culture

§ Promoting Successful Nutrition

§ Proper Handwashing

· Promotes a safe working environment by inspecting all equipment before use

· Reports any accident/incident or hazards for employees or residents that occur in the kitchen or dining, no matter how insignificant

· Follow established infection control and universal precaution policies and procedures, as needed

· Adhere to all resident rights, including, privacy, confidentiality, and treating residents with dignity and respect at all times

· Perform other duties as assigned

Work Environment:

· May be exposed to heat/cold temperatures in kitchen/storage area

· May be required to lift, push, pull and move equipment, supplies in excess of fifty pounds.

· Standing for long periods, sitting and walking intermittently

· Subject to falls, burns, odors, throughout the work day and the risk of injury from physical requirements of the job

· Is subject to exposure to infectious waste, diseases, conditions including HIV and Hepatitis B viruses

Competencies:

· Commitment to fulfilling the mission of Senior Housing Options, Inc. to provide safe, comfortable housing for seniors and people with disabilities

· Maintain a professional demeanor and respond with urgency

· Understanding of discretion needed in handling confidential information

· Self-directed, accountable for results and proactive; independent problem solver

· Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing, including the ability to provide non-

technical assistance in a simple, straightforward manner

· Demonstrate sensitivity to the concerns of residents and a commitment to dealing fairly with all

· Friendly, professional demeanor, positive disposition, tactful, patience and high ethical character even while dealing with difficult or upset residents

· Strong organizational and interpersonal skills; attention to detail

· Driving is not permitted nor required of this position

· Medication administration to residents is strictly prohibited

Education and Experience:

· High school diploma or equivalent required; culinary training preferred

· 2-3 years prior working experience in a kitchen environment required

· Prior working experience cooking and serving meals to an elderly and/or disabled population preferred

· Ability to read, write, speak and understand the English language fluently, and communicate verbally and in writing at a professional level

Expected Hours of Work:

This role may be full-time, part-time or on-call. Shifts are available 24 hours a day, seven (7) days per week. May be called during off hours to respond to emergency or unusual situations.