Cook - Los Angeles, CA

Position Summary

The Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, and serving meals in accordance with facility menus, dietary guidelines, resident preferences, and regulatory requirements. This role ensures meals are nutritious, safe, and appealing while maintaining sanitation and food safety standards. The Cook plays an important part in supporting resident health and quality of life.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals following approved menus, recipes, and portion control guidelines.
• Ensure meals meet dietary requirements, including texture-modified diets and physician-ordered restrictions.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen, including proper storage of food, equipment, and supplies.
• Adhere to infection control and food safety standards (state, federal, and facility regulations).
• Collaborate with Dietary Manager and Dietary Aides to ensure timely meal service.
• Monitor food inventory; report shortages and assist with ordering.
• Assist in receiving and checking food and supply deliveries.
• Follow resident preferences when possible while maintaining dietary compliance.
• Prevent food waste by proper preparation, storage, and use of leftovers.
• Assist with training dietary staff as needed.
• Maintain safe working practices, including proper handling of sharp utensils and hot surfaces.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of therapeutic diets and portion control helpful.
• Ability to follow recipes and menus accurately.
• Must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Strong knowledge of sanitation and food safety practices.

Education & Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent (preferred).
• Prior cooking experience in healthcare, long-term care, or institutional food service (preferred).
• Food Handler's Certification (state requirement).