Per Diem Cook - Acute Rehab - Days

UCI Health is the clinical enterprise of the University of California, Irvine, and it stands as the only academic health system located in Orange County. As a comprehensive healthcare provider, UCI Health encompasses the UCI Medical Center, a 459-bed acute care hospital situated in Orange, California. The system extends its reach through four additional hospitals and a network of affiliated physicians within Orange and Los Angeles counties. In addition, UCI Health operates multiple ambulatory care centers throughout the region to cater to the healthcare needs of a vast community.

Recognized for excellence, UCI Medical Center has been listed among America’s Best Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report for 23 consecutive years. It offers highly specialized tertiary and quaternary care and is home to Orange County's only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center. Other key healthcare programs within UCI Medical Center include a high-risk perinatal and neonatal program, American College of Surgeons-verified Level I adult and Level II pediatric trauma centers, a gold level 1 geriatric emergency department, and a regional burn center. The health system serves a broad population of nearly 4 million residents across Orange County, western Riverside County, and southeast Los Angeles County.

The position available is for a Cook within this esteemed academic health system. The incumbent will be responsible for preparing, seasoning, and cooking food using a variety of techniques including steaming, poaching, broiling, and braising. Food preparation occurs according to standardized recipes, using basic ingredients, from scratch preparations, and some convenience items. The food serves multiple settings including patient meal services, the Medical Center Cafeteria, and special catered functions. Emphasizing safety and sanitation, the role requires meticulous adherence to food safety standards within a highly regulated environment.

This role is crucial in delivering quality nutrition and service to patients and staff, supporting the overall mission of UCI Health to provide outstanding healthcare. The ideal candidate will possess a solid background in various cooking techniques, have experience working in a kitchen or cafeteria setting, and demonstrate excellent customer service skills. Flexibility is essential as the role involves working alternate schedules including days, nights, weekends, and holidays.

The position entails working within a dynamic multidisciplinary environment where coordination and teamwork are necessary to meet the dietary needs of diverse patients, including those requiring regular and therapeutic diets. Knowledge of cooking terminology, mathematics for recipe adjustments, and standard weights and measures is important. Clear written and verbal communication skills in English are required to maintain effective working relationships across the health system.

At UCI Health, working conditions are established to foster safety, respect, and professionalism. Employees benefit from access to a broad range of total rewards including medical insurance, sick and vacation time, retirement plans, and various discounts and perks designed to enhance the employee experience. The University of California, Irvine is committed to upholding equal opportunity employment practices and fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. Accommodation for applicants with disabilities is also provided upon request, maintaining a workplace environment that values each individual's unique contributions.