Second Cook

Newton, MA, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $18.07 - $25.30

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

Health Insurance

Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Professional Development

Employee assistance program

Uniform allowance

on-site parking

Job Description

Hebrew SeniorLife is a renowned organization dedicated to providing high-quality care and support for senior individuals. With a mission centered on enhancing the quality of life for its residents and patients, Hebrew SeniorLife operates specialized facilities including rehabilitation centers and senior living communities. Known for its compassionate approach and commitment to dignity in senior care, the organization emphasizes a positive and meaningful experience for every resident and patient through professional and attentive service. Hebrew SeniorLife employs a dedicated Culinary and Nutrition Department focused on preparing nutritious, safe, and appetizing meals tailored to meet diverse dietary needs, including specialized and medical diets. The culinary team plays a crucial role in supporting the organization's holistic care philosophy, ensuring food safety, quality, and resident satisfaction.

The Cook position at Hebrew SeniorLife is an essential role within the Culinary and Nutrition Department, dedicated to the safe and sanitary preparation of palatable entrees, vegetables, salads, and desserts. This hands-on role involves executing daily production sheets based on standardized recipes, dietary spreadsheets, and production schedules that accommodate all regular and special diets. The cook ensures that meals are prepared according to portion control guidelines and strict sanitary standards, upholding the integrity of food service practices in a fast-paced environment. The position requires knowledge of various cooking techniques and safety protocols including knife skills, proper temperature handling of meats and reheating procedures, and accurate measurement for recipe adherence. The cook is responsible not only for food preparation and presentation but also for managing food inventory to minimize waste, ensuring proper food labeling and rotation, and maintaining kitchen equipment in accordance with health regulations.

As part of the team, the cook collaborates closely with other culinary staff including First Cooks, Junior Sous Chefs, and Executive Sous Chefs to ensure quality and timely meal service. The role also requires a commitment to professionalism, teamwork, and a supportive attitude, as well as adherence to sanitation and safety policies such as HACCP guidelines, uniform codes, and personal hygiene standards. Hebrew SeniorLife offers an enriching work environment where the culinary staff contributes significantly to the overall well-being and satisfaction of residents through quality meal production. The position is on-site with a salary range of $18.07 to $25.30 per hour, reflecting the responsibilities and expertise required. Candidates with a passion for culinary arts, especially in a healthcare setting, will find this an impactful and rewarding career opportunity.

Job Requirements

High school diploma preferred
Three years of cooking experience
ServSafe Food Handler Certification required or obtained within six months
Ability to lift, pull, and push 50 pounds
Ability to stand for long periods and walk short distances
Frequent bending required
Ability to withstand temperature changes
Ability to read, speak, and understand English
Capability to work in a fast-paced environment

Job Qualifications

High school diploma preferred
Three years of cooking experience required
ServSafe Food Handler Certification required or obtained within six months
Knowledge of knife skills and kitchen safety
Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
Understanding of proper food temperature handling
Good judgment and initiative in food preparation
Ability to read and comprehend food orders
Flexibility and motivation to learn
Professionalism and positive attitude in teamwork

Job Duties

Prepare, cook, and produce meals according to assigned shift production sheets
Ensure all food is cooked and prepared following standards and recipes
Manage food waste to minimum levels
Produce entrees, vegetables, desserts, and salads as per menus and dietary needs
Maintain proper labeling and rotation of food in refrigerators and freezers
Clean, maintain, and store kitchen equipment properly
Assist in developing cooking procedures and recipes
Taste and evaluate food quality and palatability
Ensure timely meal service
Collaborate with culinary team for special menu execution
Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of work areas and equipment
Oversee correct food handling and HACCP procedures
Maintain adherence to sanitation and safety regulations
Log food temperatures and report anomalies
Participate in training to stay updated on nutrition and safety
Demonstrate professional conduct and support team dynamics
Resolve interpersonal conflicts constructively
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing
Follow safety, hygiene, uniform, and policy regulations
Complete assignments with initiative and minimal supervision
Proactively improve kitchen systems and processes