JOB SUMMARY:

The Cook is responsible for coordinating food service operations for Springside at Seneca Hill. Primary duties include, but are not limited to: providing nutritionally balanced meals, assisting with menu preparation, and ensuring compliance with food establishment regulations and internal policies and procedures.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES (UNIT SPECIFIC):

• Knowledge of how OSHA regulations affect on-the-job tasks, including use of chemicals, equipment, and procedures for the safe handling of chemicals and equipment.
• Knowledge of basic first aid and emergency response procedures.
• Knowledge of fire and safety procedures.
• Knowledge of regulations pertaining to food handling and storage and sanitation standards and procedures.
• Ability to perform conversion of weights and measures.
• Knowledge of major food groups and requirements for a nutritionally balanced meal.
• Safe and proper operation of kitchen equipment and appliances (dishwasher, garbage disposal, microwave, coffee maker, ice machine, blender, food processor, meat slicer, mixer, stove/oven/griddle, ansul hood, etc.). Ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Ability to think, act, and intervene independently in routine and emergency situations.
• Must be self-motivated and able to perform responsibilities and duties satisfactorily with minimal supervision.
• Neat appearance, good personal hygiene.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience in restaurant or food service industry preferred.
• Commercial cooking experience preferred or domestic cooking experience for large groups.

• Prepare food daily as directed by supervisor, and as outlined on the weekly plan.
• Coordinate food service operations for the shift; prepare nutritionally balanced meals; assist with menu preparation; assure compliance with food establishment regulations and internal policies and procedures.
• Alter or adapt recipes to accommodate special dietary needs of residents or to improve recipes. Recipes should be prepared with little or no added sodium.
• Order food and supplies from approved vendors as directed by Food Service Manager.
• Document inventory use of dry goods, refrigerated and frozen foods, non-food supplies, dishes and utensils.
• Monitor and update Dietary Restrictions forms for all residents and assure food dietary restrictions are accommodated during food preparation and serving.
• Coordinate and assign tasks during shift to employees and volunteers involved in the dietary program.
• Encourage and support resident participation in the dietary program.
• Ensure compliance with regulations/laws pertaining to food handling, storage, sanitation and use of chemicals. Ensure safe and proper use of equipment, appliances and utensils.
• Coordinate serving process and participate in serving food.
• Portion control to minimize waste and presentation of food to enhance visual appeal and taste.
• Assure proper handling, storage and labeling of all foods and ingredients, including leftovers, in accordance with NY food establishment regulations and Springside at Seneca Hill policies and procedures.
• Maintain a clean, orderly and safe kitchen environment.
• Maintain an accurate record of chargeable meals (residents, guest and catered meals) and non-chargeable meals (residents, employee and marketing meals).
• Operate food service program within budget.
• Identify and inform supervisor of the need for non-routine supplies, dishes or utensils.
• Notify supervisor of equipment/appliances malfunctions.
• Operate equipment and appliances according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Report equipment malfunctions to supervisor or director.
• Adhere to and carry out Springside at Seneca Hill policies and procedures.
• Report on-the-job injuries to the supervisor before the end of the work shift on the day the injury occurs.
• Practice safety in working with and around kitchen equipment, appliances, and utensils.
• Promptly respond to resident and building emergencies.
• Demonstrate an appreciation of the heritage, values, and wisdom of the residents and an understanding of the aging process.
• Establish and maintain constructive working relationships with co-workers, residents, families and visitors.
• Maintain confidentiality of verbal and written information pertaining to residents, facility operations and personnel.
• Treat residents with dignity, fairness and respect.
• Promote Springside at Seneca Hill in a positive way.
• Promote teamwork in providing services to residents.
• Perform other duties as assigned.