Cook

Columbus, GA, USA|

Job Overview

Work Schedule

Flexible

Benefits

Health Insurance

Paid Time Off

Professional Development

Job Description

Forefront is a distinguished healthcare organization specializing in providing exceptional dietary services within health care settings. The company is committed to maintaining the highest standards of food safety, nutrition, and patient satisfaction. Known for its inclusive and diverse workplace culture, Forefront strictly prohibits discrimination based on race, color, sex, height, weight, disability, national origin, religion, marital status, pregnancy, military service, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or any other protected class. The company emphasizes compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, ensuring that all aspects of their food service meet legal and ethical standards.

The available role of Cook at Forefront is a vital position that focuses on preparing food in strict adherence to applicable federal, state, and local standards, alongside the facility's established policies and procedures. This role is centered on ensuring patient safety through meticulous food preparation that aligns with therapeutic diets and nutritional needs. The Cook collaborates closely with the Chef Manager and Director, taking direction while maintaining independence in certain duties such as inspecting food deliveries and managing storage when supervisory staff are absent.

This full-time role requires a hands-on approach to meal preparation for residents, family members, and employees, emphasizing the importance of quality, presentation, and portion control. The Cook is responsible for following standardized recipes, using daily production worksheets and waste logs to maintain efficiency, and monitoring food temperatures rigorously. Food safety and sanitation are paramount, with the Cook expected to adhere to all health regulations and departmental sanitation procedures. The Cook's role includes contributing to departmental meetings, ensuring ongoing professional development and required certifications, and embodying the organization's ethical standards.

Forefront expects its Cook to be versatile, ready to assist in various kitchen duties such as delivering and taking orders and reporting any equipment malfunctions or unsafe conditions promptly. The role demands accountability and a high degree of interpersonal skills, requiring patience and tolerance towards staff, patients, and family members. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals with food service experience, particularly in healthcare settings, who are looking to work in a supportive and regulatory-compliant environment. The position also provides an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to patient care through nutrition and dietary excellence while working within a collaborative team committed to quality and safety.

Job Requirements

Ability to read, write, and speak English
High school graduate or equivalent education preferred
Education in quantity cooking and therapeutic diets preferred
Minimum of one year food service experience in healthcare dietary setting desired
Minimum of two years working in food and beverage operation preferred
General knowledge of quantity food preparation and portioned serving
Ability to read, understand, and follow recipe directions, diet orders, and work assignments
Able and willing to work flexible hours during emergency situations
Must be patient and tolerant toward staff, patients, and family members
ServSafe preferred

Job Qualifications

Ability to read, write, and speak English
High school graduate or equivalent education preferred
Education in quantity cooking and therapeutic diets preferred
Minimum of one year food service experience in healthcare dietary setting desired
Minimum of two years working in food and beverage operation preferred
General knowledge of quantity food preparation and portioned serving
Ability to read, understand, and follow recipe directions, diet orders, and work assignments
Able and willing to work flexible hours during emergency situations
Patience and tolerance toward staff, patients, and family members
ServSafe certification preferred

Job Duties

Prepare food in accordance with federal, state, and local standards and regulations
Assist in preparation of resident, family, and employee meals
Follow standardized recipes, portioning, menu extensions, and presentation standards
Complete and utilize daily production worksheets and waste log sheets
Monitor temperature of hot and cold foods throughout preparation and service
Check and inspect food products and supplies as delivered in absence of supervisory staff
Supervise and assist in storage of supplies and food products
Notify Chef Manager or Director of supplies or equipment needs
Report equipment breakdowns and unsafe conditions
Comply with health and sanitation regulations and department procedures
Perform other department duties as assigned
Attend department meetings as required
Demonstrate accountability for personal and professional growth
Complete mandatory training and competencies
Act in conformance with all facility and departmental policies including Human Resources, Code of Ethics, Compliance, Patient Rights, Confidentiality, and HIPAA requirements