1st Shift Cook

TerraBella Senior Living is a renowned senior living provider that proudly serves thousands of residents and their families across multiple communities. With a comprehensive range of lifestyle and care services including Active Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and short-term Respite, TerraBella is dedicated to fostering vibrant and supportive communities. Rooted deeply in values of purpose, hospitality, and meaningful connection, this establishment creates environments where both residents and team members thrive together. As part of one of the largest senior living organizations in America, TerraBella communities have proudly earned Great Place to Work certifications consecutively from 2022 to 2026, underscoring the company’s commitment to a positive work culture and employee satisfaction.

Working at TerraBella means being part of a culture defined by growth, heart, and a strong commitment to the professional development of every team member. The organization invests heavily in learning and development opportunities, ensuring staff members have the tools and training necessary to build rewarding, meaningful careers within the senior living industry. This ensures not only career growth but also a fulfilling work experience that aligns with the core values of the company.

TerraBella Senior Living is currently seeking a 1st Shift Cook to join the community of HeartFields at Cary. This role operates during the hours of 6 AM to 2 PM, offering candidates the chance to become an essential part of the culinary team in a setting that prioritizes resident satisfaction and quality service. The 1st Shift Cook is responsible for the preparation of both hot and cold menu items, which require skillful work across various stations such as the grill, sauté station, salad bar, and the service line. Attention to detail and adherence to recipes and menu cycles are critical to maintain the high standards TerraBella residents expect.

The role demands ensuring proper portioning and food preparation consistent with standardized recipes, while actively tasting and evaluating food quality and palatability to maintain excellence. Beyond culinary skills, the position requires great organizational capabilities and strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with kitchen and service teams. Experience with food production methods, portion control, and strict adherence to food handling safety protocols are essential to succeed. The role also requires availability for weekend shifts, emphasizing the continuous commitment needed in the hospitality environment within senior living.

Joining TerraBella offers prospective employees a chance to be part of an innovative and inclusive team atmosphere that embraces change and constant improvement. Discovery Senior Living, the parent organization, has earned the prestigious Great Place to Work certification for the years 2025-2026. The company values teamwork, integrity, performance, accountability, compassion, hard work, and creativity as part of its Pillars of Excellence—principles that not only define the organization internally but also enhance the experiences of residents and families served.

Employees at TerraBella enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive pay, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance options, paid time off, holidays, a 401(k) plan with employer match, paid training, career growth opportunities, wellness-related benefits, and additional support through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). TerraBella prides itself on being an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and all team members feel valued and supported.

This job opportunity at TerraBella Senior Living is ideal for individuals passionate about culinary arts, eager to contribute to a caring senior living community, and driven by a purpose to make a positive impact in others’ lives through exceptional food service and hospitality. Candidates looking to develop their careers in a thriving, supportive atmosphere that honors both tradition and innovation will find this role rewarding and fulfilling.