Cook II

BayCare Health System is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area, known for its extensive network that includes 16 community-based hospitals, a long-term acute care facility, home health services, outpatient centers, and thousands of physicians. With the support of over 30,000 team members, BayCare upholds a forward-thinking philosophy emphasizing trust, dignity, respect, responsibility, and clinical excellence. As a leading healthcare provider, BayCare is dedicated to delivering quality care and support to the diverse communities it serves throughout the Tampa Bay region.

The Food and Nutrition Services department at BayCare supports this mission through the preparation and delivery of nutritious, safe, and high-quality food services to patients, staff, and visitors. The role of a Cook within this department is integral to maintaining the standards of food safety and quality that BayCare is known for. This position involves preparing foods according to standardized recipes and production methods, ensuring that every meal meets the organization’s guidelines for nutrition, taste, temperature, and presentation. The Cook will also be responsible for maintaining a sanitary environment by following safe food handling techniques during preparation, service, and storage.

This full-time, non-exempt position is based at the Winter Haven location and offers varying shift hours, including a schedule of two days on and one day off, without any remote work options. The Cook will gain experience working several production stations and conducting daily quality control checks. Along with food preparation duties, the role provides opportunities to train and orient new staff on food production and safety protocols, and to lead production activities in the absence of the Executive Chef according to facility standards.

Candidates are expected to have relevant experience in cooking or food services, with a minimum of four years of experience as a cook or two years with a high school diploma or equivalent. The role requires obtaining a ServSafe Manager food safety certification within one year of hire, reinforcing BayCare's commitment to food safety standards. While completion of a technical program or degree in Culinary Arts is preferred, it is not essential, reflecting BayCare’s openness to candidates with diverse educational backgrounds but strong practical skills and relevant experience.

Working at BayCare offers not only the chance to be part of a respected healthcare network but also the ability to grow professionally in a supportive environment that values clinical excellence and employee development. The Cook position is vital to ensuring patients and staff receive meals that support health and recovery, reflecting the broader mission of BayCare to improve lives through quality care and dedicated service.