Description:
The Lead Cook at The Vered is responsible for delivering an exceptional, restaurant-style dining experience through outstanding food quality, presentation, and service. Working alongside the Executive Chef, this hands-on leadership role oversees daily food production, supports kitchen operations, mentors culinary team members, and ensures the highest standards of food safety, cleanliness, and execution.
As a member of our opening team, the Lead Cook will help shape a dynamic culinary program in a state-of-the-art kitchen, bringing creativity, consistency, and hospitality to every meal. This position offers an exciting opportunity for professional growth within The Vered and Momentum Senior Living.
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Requirements:
The following duties are representative of this position. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed.
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Lead by example to deliver an exceptional, restaurant-style dining experience with consistently high standards for food quality, presentation, service, and hospitality.
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Supervise, coach, and support culinary team members to ensure efficient kitchen operations and exceptional execution during meal service.
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Assign daily responsibilities and monitor workflow to ensure timely food production and service.
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Prepare, portion, plate, and present menu items according to standardized recipes, dietary requirements, and presentation standards.
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Encourage culinary creativity through seasonal menus, daily specials, and resident-focused dining experiences.
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Maintain the highest standards of sanitation, food safety, organization, and regulatory compliance.
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Ensure deliveries are properly received, labeled, rotated, and stored using FIFO practices.
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Monitor inventory, minimize waste, and support responsible food cost management.
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Train and mentor culinary staff on food preparation, equipment operation, safety procedures, and service expectations.
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Collaborate with Dining Services, Sales & Marketing, and other departments to ensure seamless daily operations and special events.
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Engage with residents to gather feedback and continuously improve the dining experience.
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Support community events, marketing functions, and resident celebrations through outstanding food and hospitality.
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Maintain professionalism, adaptability, and composure in a fast-paced, luxury hospitality environment.
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Attend required meetings and training sessions and perform other related duties as assigned.
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High school diploma or equivalent required; culinary degree or formal culinary training preferred.
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Minimum three (3) years of culinary experience in an upscale restaurant, hotel, resort, private club, or luxury senior living community.
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Previous supervisory or kitchen leadership experience preferred.
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Strong knowledge of food preparation, menu execution, sanitation, food safety, and kitchen operations.
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Demonstrated leadership, organizational, communication, and team-building skills.
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Passion for hospitality and creating memorable dining experiences.
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Current Food Handler and/or Certified Food Protection Manager certification as required by state regulations.
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Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office, preferred.
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Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
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Frequently lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds with assistance when needed.
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Regular bending, reaching, twisting, and repetitive hand movements.
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Ability to safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.
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Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment with exposure to heat, cold, steam, and cleaning chemicals.
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Ability to communicate effectively with residents, families, guests, and team members while maintaining professionalism, patience, and exceptional customer service.
