Position Summary The Cook is responsible for preparing and presenting nutritious, well-balanced meals for approximately 40 residents in accordance with physician-ordered diets, menu plans, and Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Type B assisted living regulations. The Cook works under the direction of the Dining Director to ensure food is prepared safely, on schedule, and within the community's food and supply budget. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Prepare and cook meals, snacks, and beverages for residents according to the planned cycle menu, standardized recipes, and any physician-ordered therapeutic or texture-modified diets (e.g., low sodium, diabetic, pureed, mechanical soft). Read and follow diet orders and dietary restriction lists provided by the Dining Director or nursing staff; notify the Dining Director of any discrepancies. Portion and plate food attractively, maintaining proper serving temperatures for both hot and cold items. Monitor food quality, taste, and appearance, and adjust preparation methods as needed to maintain resident satisfaction. Follow HACCP-based food safety practices, including proper thawing, cooking, holding, and cooling temperatures, and maintain accurate temperature logs. Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen, including dishwashing, equipment cleaning, and daily/weekly cleaning schedules in compliance with state health code and HHSC survey requirements. Assist the Dining Director with receiving, checking in, and properly storing food and supply deliveries (primarily through US Foods), verifying quantities and quality against orders. Practice portion control and minimize food waste to help the community stay within its established food budget of $6.50 per resident per day for fresh food and $0.25 per resident per day for kitchen supplies. Communicate ingredient, supply, or equipment needs to the Dining Director in a timely manner to support accurate ordering. Maintain accurate records, including production logs, temperature logs, and waste logs, as required by community policy and state regulations. Train and provide guidance to dietary aides or other kitchen staff on food preparation techniques, portioning, and sanitation as needed. Participate in resident food committee meetings or taste panels as requested, and respond professionally to resident feedback. Follow all infection control, universal precautions, and safety procedures, including proper use of kitchen equipment and chemicals. Assist with inventory counts and rotation of stock (FIFO) to reduce spoilage and waste. Support emergency preparedness and evacuation procedures as required for Type B licensure, including being available to assist residents as directed during a facility emergency or drill. Perform other duties as assigned by the Dining Director or Executive Director. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Previous cooking experience in a healthcare, senior living, restaurant, or institutional food service setting preferred; experience cooking for large groups or therapeutic diets is a plus. Current Texas Food Handler certification required (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire); Food Manager certification a plus. Working knowledge of therapeutic diets, food safety, and sanitation standards. Ability to read, understand, and follow standardized recipes and diet orders. Basic math skills for measuring, portioning, and scaling recipes. Ability to work as part of a team and communicate effectively with the Dining Director, dietary staff, nursing staff, and residents. Must pass a criminal background check, drug screening, and any health screenings required for Texas assisted living staff (e.g., TB test), consistent with HHSC Type B requirements. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, up to a full shift. Ability to lift and carry up to 40-50 lbs (e.g., food cases, stock pots, supply deliveries). Ability to work in a kitchen environment with exposure to heat, steam, sharp tools, and cleaning chemicals. Ability to bend, reach, and stand at counters and stoves for meal preparation. Ability to assist with resident evacuation procedures if needed, in accordance with the community's emergency plan. Work Environment This position works in a licensed Type B assisted living community serving approximately 40 residents. The Cook works closely with the Dining Director and dietary team to ensure meals meet residents' nutritional needs and personal preferences while complying with Texas HHSC assisted living regulations and community food safety standards. This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required.