Room Service Cook - NMCP

Eggleston Services is a distinguished nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing education, training, and employment opportunities since 1955. Known for its strong commitment to fostering inclusive work environments, Eggleston Services has established a reputation as a compassionate and responsible employer. Its partnership with esteemed institutions like the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth highlights its dedication to delivering quality services while supporting meaningful employment for individuals facing unique challenges.

This full-time Room Service Cook position, based at the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, offers candidates an opportunity to work in a dynamic healthcare setting. The role is pivotal in meal production and service, focusing on patient-centered care by collaborating closely with the nutrition team and other food service personnel. This position is designed for individuals passionate about culinary arts with a strong understanding of dietary needs and nutrition, especially within a medical context.

The Room Service Cook will be responsible for preparing, cooking, and serving meals tailored to both regular and modified diets, ensuring that every food item meets strict quality and presentation standards. This role requires a high level of attention to detail, quick responsiveness to inpatient food orders, and the ability to coordinate with various kitchen departments to test and refine recipes. The individual must be well-versed in using computerized recipes and meal tickets, balancing food preparation with nutritional requirements to accommodate conditions such as diabetes and renal diets.

Working hours are rotating shifts from 4:00 AM to 6:00 PM, seven days a week, reflecting the commitment needed to maintain seamless service within a hospital environment. This demanding schedule requires flexibility, stamina, and dedication. Additionally, employees must comply with the heightened security protocols typical of military installations, which necessitates possessing a valid REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card.

The physical demands of the role include standing for lengthy periods and frequently lifting up to 50 pounds, as well as engaging in tasks that involve bending, reaching, and squatting. The work environment is a commercial kitchen characterized by noise and potential exposure to typical kitchen hazards, requiring adherence to stringent safety and sanitation standards.

Candidates should bring substantial experience in commercial cooking alongside culinary education or formal training, with a firm grasp of basic nutrition and an ability to interpret specialized dietary instructions. Practical skills include operating and maintaining a variety of kitchen equipment, multitasking efficiently, and following comprehensive cleaning schedules to uphold the highest levels of food safety.

Eggleston Services emphasizes creating a respectful and cooperative workplace where communication skills and professionalism are paramount. Employees interact regularly with coworkers, medical staff, and patients and must therefore maintain courteous and respectful relationships.

This position not only offers the chance to develop culinary expertise within a unique healthcare environment but also contributes meaningfully to community health and wellness. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Eggleston Services welcomes applications from all qualified candidates and supports employees through adherence to corporate policies and a safe working environment.