Cook

The Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Waco, Texas, is part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, a federal agency dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare services to U.S. veterans. This Medical Center operates with a deep commitment to honoring the sacrifices and service of veterans by delivering comprehensive medical care, including specialized nutrition and food services tailored to meet the unique dietary requirements of its patients. The Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Waco serves a critical role in the community by ensuring veterans receive not only medical treatments but also nutritious and wholesome meals that contribute significantly to their overall health and recovery process.

The Nutrition and Food Service department within this facility is responsible for preparing meals that adhere to various therapeutic diets, including diabetic, low sodium, low protein, and gluten-free options. This department ensures that the meals meet rigorous standards for quality, nutrition, and safety, recognizing the vital role that proper nutrition plays in patient health outcomes. The staff is committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene, food safety, and service excellence, working under conditions that require attention to detail and flexibility to manage a variety of dietary needs.

The Cook position at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Waco is a full-time, permanent role with a promotion potential at the WG-6 pay scale grade, offering an hourly wage range of $21.89 to $25.54. The work schedule includes rotating shifts from 4:00 am to 12:30 pm or 10:00 am to 6:30 pm, with days off rotating every 28 days. This role does not offer telework or relocation expenses. The cook position plays a pivotal part in the food service team, responsible for preparing and cooking meals that comply with prescribed eating plans tailored to the rehabilitation and dietary needs of veterans.

As a cook here, you will independently prepare a wide variety of items, including entrees and desserts suitable for both regular and therapeutic diets. The role demands expertise in following menus, production sheets, and recipes precisely to prepare meals in the required quantities. You will apply a range of cooking techniques such as broiling, roasting, baking, frying, boiling, steaming, stewing, braising, and grilling to diversify meal preparation. Attention to detail is critical when slicing meat and preparing vegetables or baking desserts, ensuring that all food items meet size, weight, and consistency specifications, including adjustments for pureed foods.

The position requires maintaining strict sanitary and safety standards while operating various kitchen equipment and performing cleaning and deep sanitizing tasks regularly. Physical demands include sustained standing, walking, frequent bending, lifting objects up to 40 pounds, and safely handling kitchen tools. The work environment includes dealing with temperature extremes, exposure to cooking odors, steam, and noise, as well as working collaboratively with other kitchen staff and supervisors. Employees must adhere to health and safety protocols, including wearing hair coverings, gloves, and protective equipment when necessary.

This job offers the opportunity to be part of a mission-driven organization that values commitment to veterans and their health. The successful candidate will demonstrate a passion for food service excellence and efficiency, contributing to a vital component of patient care at a federal health care institution. Employees also benefit from comprehensive federal employment benefits and the satisfaction of supporting those who have served the nation.