Therapeutic Diet Kitchen Cook

Job Title: Dietary Cook
Employment Type: Full-Time (FT) / Part-Time (PT)
Department: Dietary
Reports To: Dietary Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Supervises: None

The Dietary Cook supports the nutritional needs of residents by preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents, staff, and visitors. This role follows established menus, therapeutic diet orders (such as diabetic or low-sodium diets), and all health and safety guidelines including HACCP and sanitation standards.

Meals include breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and special event meals, all prepared according to Department for the Aging nutritional guidelines while honoring resident preferences. The Dietary Cook is also responsible for maintaining cleanliness and sanitation of the kitchen and food preparation areas.

• Prepare, cook, bake, season, carve, and portion food for all meals using standardized recipes and 4-week rotating menus.
• Prepare therapeutic diets and approved alternative or substitute meals for residents with specific dietary needs such as allergies, diabetes, or heart-healthy requirements.
• Implement recommended changes from the consulting dietitian.
• Ensure food is appetizing in appearance and served on time.
• Prepare special meals for holidays, events, and resident requests.
• Consult with the clinical dietitian regarding modified diets or special resident needs.
• Perform quality assurance tasks including temperature checks for final cooking and holding temperatures.
• Operate kitchen equipment including ovens, mixers, slicers, grills, and related appliances.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment by following established procedures.
• Ensure all equipment is in safe working order and report malfunctions to the Dietary Manager immediately.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of coolers, freezers, storerooms, and kitchen areas.
• Clean and properly store dishes after every meal service.

• Store or dispose of leftover food according to safe food storage and labeling procedures.
• Maintain safe food temperatures at all times in accordance with regulations and HACCP guidelines.
• Monitor inventory levels and report shortages to the Dietary Manager.

• Respond to quality assurance concerns and document issues for future reference.
• Maintain accurate records including production logs, waste records, inventory, food temperatures, and thermometer calibration per Medina policies.
• Work in a constant state of alertness and maintain a safe culinary environment using strict infection control procedures.
• Ensure all opened food items are covered and labeled with date and time in refrigerators and freezers.

• Serve meals to residents, including delivery to resident rooms as needed.
• Communicate with nursing staff and dietitians regarding resident dietary needs and special requests.
• Interact professionally and respectfully with residents, families, and visitors.
• Ensure all safety and infection control regulations are followed by kitchen staff.
• Maintain a clean, organized kitchen and ensure assigned tasks are completed.
• Report all accidents and incidents to the Dietary Manager immediately.
• Ensure food and supplies for upcoming meals are prepared and available.
• Assist with meal service as needed to ensure timely delivery.

• Promote an environment that supports resident privacy, dignity, cleanliness, safety, and well-being.
• Serve as a professional role model for dietary staff.
• Demonstrate accountability, dependability, and professionalism in all responsibilities.
• Safeguard resident privacy and confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA.
• Maintain confidentiality of departmental and staff information.
• Represent Medina Nursing Center positively with residents, families, vendors, volunteers, and visitors.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with nursing staff and other departments.
• Remain calm during emergency situations.
• Complete all required in-services and training in a timely manner.
• Actively contribute as a key member of the dietary team, assisting with problem-solving and process improvements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the…