Cook

The Senior Citizens' Center is a dedicated facility serving the elderly community by providing social, nutritional, and recreational services designed to enhance the quality of life for seniors. The center plays a crucial role in supporting the well-being of older adults through various programs, especially meal services tailored to meet their unique dietary needs. At the heart of this mission is a commitment to delivering nutritious, safe, and appetizing meals that cater to special dietary requirements such as low-sodium, diabetic, or religious diets. This center operates under strict adherence to health regulations and food safety standards to ensure the highest quality food service.

We are currently seeking a skilled individual to join our team as a Dietary Cook I. This is the first of two levels in the Dietary series, focusing on preparing acceptable meals, snacks, and specialized diets for seniors. This role demands a high degree of attention to food safety, sanitation, and compliance with dietary guidelines. The successful candidate will assist with menu planning, bulk cooking, maintaining kitchen hygiene, and ensuring compliance with health regulations in food preparation. This position is full-time and contingent upon the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget approval, ensuring stability and long-term employment prospects within the organization.

The Dietary Cook I will be responsible for cooking, seasoning, and preparing meals following detailed recipes and menus designed to meet the nutritional needs of the senior population. The role involves maintaining a sanitary kitchen environment and appropriately storing food in compliance with local, state, and federal health regulations. The cook will also handle inventory management, notifying the Kitchen Manager when supplies or equipment are needed, and assist with serving meals as well as cleaning the kitchen and dining area after meal service. Maintaining daily logs of food temperature and cleaning tasks is essential to meet safety and quality standards.

Candidates will perform a variety of physically demanding tasks, including moving and lifting up to 50 pounds, balancing on slippery or uneven surfaces, crouching, kneeling, and repetitive motions of the hands and wrists. They must possess excellent communication skills to interact effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and the public, and demonstrate the ability to follow oral and written instructions precisely. Knowledge of nutrition, bulk cooking for large groups, food handling, and food service operations is vital for success in this role.

The ideal applicant will have at least a high school diploma or GED, with two years of experience in a commercial or institutional kitchen or other food service settings. Certification in CPR within one month of hire and a valid driver’s license are also required. This role provides an excellent opportunity for those passionate about culinary arts and community service to contribute meaningfully by supporting senior nutrition and health through dedicated and professional food service.