Cook

Columbus, OH, USA|

Job Overview

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee assistance program

Professional Development

meal discounts

Job Description

SUN Behavioral Health is a leading healthcare provider specializing in behavioral health services, committed to delivering compassionate, safe, and high-quality care to its patients. Known for fostering a healing environment and supporting the well-being of both patients and staff, SUN Behavioral Health values teamwork, integrity, and continuous improvement in all aspects of its operations. This healthcare facility emphasizes patient safety and ensures strict adherence to regulatory standards including infection control, confidentiality, and quality initiatives. Equipped with a dedicated Dietary Services department, the hospital prioritizes nutritional support tailored to patient needs to promote recovery and overall health.

The role of Cook at SUN Behavioral Health is a vital position within the Dietary Services team that requires preparing, seasoning, and cooking food in compliance with hospital nutrition guidelines. Under the direct supervision of the Director of Dietary Services, the Cook is responsible not only for food preparation but also for maintaining kitchen cleanliness and following infection control practices that are critical in a healthcare setting. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in food service, particularly in healthcare or similar institutional environments, and will be capable of working collaboratively with dietitians, supervisory staff, and food service workers.

This position demands a high level of technical skill with food preparation equipment such as blenders, mixers, and slicers, along with an ability to cook a variety of meats, vegetables, soups, and desserts while adhering to dietary restrictions and preferences. The Cook is expected to ensure meals are ready on time, oversee food portioning, test for taste and cooking accuracy, and contribute to inventory management. Safety and teamwork are integral aspects of the role, requiring ongoing communication with colleagues about workplace hazards and active participation in safety programs. Furthermore, the Cook must maintain patient confidentiality, demonstrate professionalism, uphold ethical standards, and contribute positively to a culture of safety and quality in the hospital.

This full-time position places a strong emphasis on clinical and technical skills, safety, integrity, teamwork, and compassion with a structured performance review allocating specific percentages of assessment to each domain. The candidate will be involved in tasks ranging from supervising food service workers, consulting with registered dietitians about modified diets, participating in quality improvement projects, and supporting the hospital’s mission and values through dedicated service. Maintaining proper training, including certifications like CPR, ServSafe, and de-escalation techniques, is essential for compliance and effective job performance.

The Cook role offers a rewarding opportunity for those passionate about combining their culinary skills with healthcare service, working in a mission-driven environment that values continuous learning, patient-centered care, and cooperative team dynamics. SUN Behavioral Health provides a supportive atmosphere that encourages career growth and skill development while making a meaningful impact on patient recovery and satisfaction.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or GED
CPR and hospital-selected de-escalation technique certification
A current ServSafe certificate within 3 months of hire
Three years of experience in a food service line or restaurant setting
Ability to work in a healthcare environment following infection control standards
Strong communication skills
Ability to work well in a team
Reliable and punctual
Physical ability to perform kitchen duties including lifting and standing for long periods

Job Qualifications

High school diploma or GED
CPR and hospital-selected de-escalation technique certification
A current ServSafe certificate within 3 months of hire
Some college courses preferred
Maintains education and development appropriate for position
Three years of experience in a food service line or restaurant setting
One year in a hospital dietary department preferred
Previous experience in a behavioral health setting preferred

Job Duties

Determines types and quantities of meats, vegetables and soups to be prepared by reviewing planned menus
Determines amount of foods needed to meet weekly menus and submits order to supervisor
Ensures meals are ready at specified times
Consults with supervisor regarding use of leftovers
Consults Registered Dietitian on modified diets as necessary
Supervises Food Services Workers when washing, trimming or preparing food
Measures and mixes ingredients according to approved recipes using blenders, mixers, grinders, slicers, etc
Makes sauces, soups, stews, casseroles and desserts meeting established dietary guidelines
Cooks meat, fish and fowl in a variety of ways such as baking, roasting, broiling and steaming
Carves meat, fish and fowl into individual servings according to menu combinations and patient diet orders
Tests foods being cooked to ensure proper cooking temperatures and adjusts heat controls as necessary
Tests foods being cooked for balanced seasoning and taste, adjusts heat controls as needed
Improves flavor and texture of food by adding ingredients or seasonings
Observes infection prevention and control practices at all times
Maintains kitchen in a clean, neat and organized manner
Assists in serving patients when necessary
Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical or health care errors
Supports and maintains a culture of safety and quality
Works with the supervisor to ensure all food service staff are trained on fire suppression and other PPE protection as required by the staff’s job duties
Perform other duties as assigned