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
