Job Summary:

The Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking nutritious, high-quality meals for patients, staff, and visitors in accordance with physician-ordered diets, food safety regulations, and hospital standards. This role supports patient care by ensuring meals are safe, timely, and meet therapeutic and nutritional requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepare, cook, and portion food items according to standardized recipes and production schedules
• Follow physician-prescribed diets including therapeutic, modified, and texture-altered diets
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and infection control standards (FDA Food Code, HACCP, Joint Commission)
• Maintain proper food temperatures, labeling, and storage practices
• Assist with tray line operations and patient meal service as assigned
• Taste, test, and evaluate food quality before service
• Maintain cleanliness of kitchen equipment, utensils, and work areas
• Operate kitchen equipment such as ovens, steamers, grills, slicers, and kettles safely
• Monitor inventory levels and notify supervisor of shortages
• Follow allergy awareness and special dietary restriction protocols
• Adhere to HIPAA confidentiality standards when interacting with patients

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Previous cooking experience in healthcare, institutional, or commercial kitchens preferred Certifications (Preferred or Required per Facility):
• Food Handler's Permit or ServSafe Certification
• HACCP training

Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety, and sanitation practices
• Ability to follow recipes and dietary guidelines accurately
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Customer service skills with sensitivity to patient needs

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 40-50 pounds
• Ability to work in hot, fast-paced kitchen environments

Work Schedule:

• May include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays

Compliance & Safety:

• Compliance with hospital policies, infection control practices, and OSHA regulations
• Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Adherence to patient confidentiality and privacy standards

Performance Standards:

• Prepares meals that meet quality, safety, and nutritional standards
• Demonstrates consistency, reliability, and professionalism
• Contributes to patient satisfaction and overall hospital service excellence