Cook

Tuscaloosa, AL, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee wellness programs

Professional development opportunities

Job Description

DCH Health System is a reputable healthcare organization committed to providing high-quality nutritional services as part of its comprehensive patient care. With a focus on maintaining patient wellness through proper dietary management, DCH integrates a range of culinary and food service functions within its operational framework. The system emphasizes safety, hygiene, and consistency in food preparation to meet the unique dietary needs of patients and other customers while adhering to strict health standards. The organization supports its team with ongoing compliance to federal and internal standards, facilitating a supportive and professional environment.\n\nWe are looking to hire a dedicated Cook who will be responsible for the preparation of a variety of cooked and baked products, including regular and modified items tailored for patients and customers. This role requires proficiency in a range of cooking techniques, equipment operation, and the ability to adhere to standardized recipes ensuring the highest quality in taste, appearance, and nutritional value. The cook performs essential duties, including managing food requisitions, maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of the work area and equipment, promoting customer service, and complying with the HACCP program and other food safety standards. The position includes hands-on administration and resource tracking to reconcile food usage effectively. The candidate must be flexible with work shifts and adhere strictly to DCH Health System and Nutritional Services policies. This role is crucial to supporting the nutritional health of patients and fulfilling organizational standards to ensure overall satisfaction and safety. This is a full-time role requiring physical presence onsite with an expectation of standing, walking, kneeling, and lifting heavy objects routinely, and working in varied environmental conditions including high heat and occasional cold. The cook must also be capable of clear communication with staff members and work effectively both independently and as part of a cohesive team. The candidate is expected to be compliant with necessary behavioral and safety standards, contributing positively to the workplace culture and patient experience. This role is suited for individuals with a background in food service who are committed to excellence and have a passion for supporting health through nutrition.

Job Requirements

high school diploma or equivalent
two years experience in cooking or food preparation preferred
ability to operate food service equipment including fryers, choppers, steamers
adequate English communication skills
ability to follow detailed instructions
ability to work variable shifts
physical capability to stand, walk, kneel, sit or stoop for extended periods
ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally and 35 lbs regularly
willingness to work in hot, humid, and variable temperature environments
compliance with food safety and HACCP standards
ability to use electronic mail, time attendance, learning management software and intranet
adherence to all DCH Health System policies and procedures

Job Qualifications

high school graduate or equivalent preferred
able to read, write, speak and comprehend English
two years experience as a cook preferred
able to operate a variety of food service equipment such as fryers, choppers, steamers
ServSafe certification with a minimum score of 75% preferred but not required
able to understand and interpret detailed written and oral instructions

Job Duties

performs all duties of an assistant cook
promotes and coordinates standard and special set up and layout of buffets and stations of food items as set out by manager or supervisor
manages requisitions for food and supplies, menu and recipe maintenance of specific food stations
proficient in use and set-up of all equipment related to food production and superior customer service for specific stations
prepares and cooks a wide variety of foods following standardized recipes to achieve required taste, appearance and nutritional standards
quickly and accurately adjusts recipes using basic cooking principles and elementary mathematical skills
maintains work area and equipment in clean, sanitary condition
promotes customer service through completing assignments according to schedule and timelines
understands and follows oral and written directions
maintains, promotes and enforces HACCP program including proper storage, temperature maintenance, schedules and cleaning protocols
performs duties of cook's assistant, server, janitor, and limited bakery and pastry tasks
reconciles food usage through administration and tracking
adheres to all DCH Health System and Nutritional Services policies and procedures
works variable shifts as required
performs electronic tasks including email and software use
performs other duties as assigned