Lead Cook - Healthcare

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Position:
Lead Cook – Healthcare Setting

We are looking for an experienced Lead Cook to join our healthcare kitchen that serves our Assisted Living, Memory Care and Nursing residents. The Lead Cook is proficient in and performs the tasks needed in the preparation, cooking and plating of all hot and cold food items on the menu for residents in accordance with established recipes, dietary needs, and procedures.

Assuming general leadership responsibilities for all kitchen personnel in the Sous Chef.

• Tue – 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Wed – 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Thu – 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Fri – 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Sat – 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

• Serves as the first point of contact for kitchen operations concerns; provides respectful counsel and guidance to newer line and prep cooks, as well as utility workers.
• Maintains strong communication with Dietary staff as well as with members of the Food & Nutrition Leadership Team.
• Elevates concerns or issues to the appropriate supervisor or manager.
• Prepare and cook menu items according to recipes, portion sizes, and presentation standards.
• Set up and stock workstations with all necessary ingredients, tools, and equipment.
• Ensure that all food is prepared fresh, cooked to order, and presented according to community standards.
• Assist with meal prep for special dietary requirements, including low‑sodium, diabetic, or texture‑modified diets, as required for residents.
• Operate kitchen equipment (grills, fryers, ovens, etc.) safely and efficiently.
• Monitor food quality and make adjustments as necessary to ensure the highest standards of taste and presentation.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace, cleaning and sanitizing tools, equipment, and surfaces regularly.
• Adhere to all local health and safety regulations and guidelines for food handling and kitchen cleanliness.
• Ensure proper labeling, rotation, and storage of food items to minimize waste and maintain freshness.
• Assist in training new staff or apprentices as needed and share best practices for cooking and food preparation.
• Communicate effectively with servers and other kitchen staff to ensure the timely delivery of food.
• Help monitor inventory levels and notify management when supplies need to be replenished.
• Work with the dietary team to ensure all meals meet the specific nutritional needs and preferences of residents.

• At least 2 years of culinary experience with prior healthcare setting experience.
• Previous supervision or leadership experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of culinary fundamentals including food handling & safety, sanitation, station set up, plating and closing.

• 18 days of PTO to start with 8 holidays and 2 personal holidays.
• Affordable health and dental insurance as low as $60/month for a premium plan.
• 401(k) with a match after 1 year.
• Company‑sponsored short- and long‑term disability insurance and life insurance.
• Great team of co‑workers who love what they do, and a resident community who appreciates what you do!

Ability to stand and move for an extended period of time, ability to lift up to 50 pounds independently required.

Piper Shores is dedicated to a policy of compliance with all federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination in employment.

Under Maine law, all employees working in congregate care facilities must be fully vaccinated against Influenza, and required Public Health vaccines such as MMR/TB/etc. A two‑step TB test is required upon hire.