Cook

Clive, IA, USA|

Job Overview

Benefits

Birthday and anniversary PTO

Tuition Assistance

Double pay on holidays

PTO accrual on DAY 1

Referral Bonus

free meal during shift

Loyalty Incentive

Employee Recognition Program

Discounts through Verizon and AT&T

Pay Advance Program

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Basic Term Life Insurance

401k

Flexible spending account

Job Description

Dial is a compassionate and resident-focused community dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for seniors by fostering a welcoming and supportive environment. This healthcare and senior living establishment is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of its residents by bringing happiness and a sense of family to every interaction. At Dial, caring for the elderly goes beyond routine tasks – it involves truly adding life to years and ensuring that each resident feels valued and loved. The team at Dial is known for its experienced and knowledgeable senior staff members, who provide ample learning opportunities for all team members to grow professionally and personally within the caregiving field.

We are currently seeking a dedicated Food Preparation Specialist to join our team, a crucial role that directly contributes to the health and satisfaction of our residents. This position is ideal for individuals who take pride in preparing nutritious, appealing meals in a safe and hygienic kitchen environment. As a Food Preparation Specialist at Dial, you will be responsible for preparing daily meals according to a pre-planned weekly menu, customizing recipes to meet the unique dietary needs of residents, especially those requiring low sodium or specialized diets. Your role will ensure that every meal served is not only nutritious but also visually appealing and served in appropriate portions to meet budget guidelines.

This role also involves maintaining an orderly and clean kitchen environment, proper handling and storage of all food items in compliance with food safety regulations, and collaborating with the kitchen and service teams to provide a seamless dining experience. Attention to detail and adherence to food handling standards are critical to success in this position. You will also help in planning by identifying food supplies needed for upcoming menus and notifying supervisors of any equipment malfunctions to maintain smooth kitchen operations.

Working at Dial means becoming part of a team that values cooperation, respect, and care – not only for the residents but also among colleagues. Our staff members enjoy numerous perks and benefits designed to recognize their hard work and support their well-being. These benefits include paid time off starting from day one, tuition assistance, holiday double pay, referral bonuses, free meals during shifts, employee recognition programs, loyalty incentives, and appealing discounts through major service providers. Additionally, our comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage, along with basic term life insurance and 401K plans, support the health and financial security of our employees.

Joining Dial as a Food Preparation Specialist means embracing a rewarding career where your efforts directly improve the lives of seniors every day. If you are passionate about food preparation, enjoy working in a team-oriented environment, and are committed to maintaining high standards of quality and safety, we would love to hear from you. This role offers a meaningful opportunity to grow your skills while making a tangible difference in a warm and supportive community.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or GED
Experience with commercial cooking or domestic cooking with large groups

Job Qualifications

High school diploma or GED
Experience with commercial cooking or domestic cooking with large groups
Practice safety in working with and around kitchen equipment
Promote teamwork in providing services to residents
State food-handling and kitchen regulations
Operation of kitchen appliances such as dishwasher, garbage disposal, microwave, coffee maker, ice machine, blender, food processor, meat slicer, mixer, and office equipment such as photocopier and telephone
Certificate in food-preparation training is preferred
Experience in supervision is preferred
Willingness to learn and help others
Enjoyment in working with older adults

Job Duties

Prepare food daily as outlined on the weekly menu plan
Alter or adapt recipes to accommodate special dining needs of residents or to improve recipes with low or no added sodium
Ensure attractive presentation of food on the plate before serving
Maintain portion control to meet budgetary requirements
Identify food and supplies needed for the next week’s menus and report to the supervisor
Maintain a clean, orderly and safe kitchen environment
Ensure proper handling, labeling and storage of food for infection control
Prepare meats for storage and portion control upon delivery
Ensure proper storage of all delivered foods and ingredients
Coordinate and participate in serving food
Notify manager of malfunctioning equipment or appliances
Work with a team to ensure efficient operation of the facility
Report any concerns of the resident’s well-being to the Executive Director or supervisor
Encourage and invite residents to participate in the food service program and activities
Attend scheduled staff and in-service meetings as required
Report any on-the-job injuries to the supervisor before the end of the work shift on the day the injury occurs
Maintain confidentiality of verbal and written information pertaining to residents, community operations and personnel
Other duties as assigned