Job Description

At Mahaska Health, we are looking for a cook to join our friendly and dedicated team. In this vital role, you'll be responsible for preparing nutritious, delicious meals that cater to the diverse dietary needs of our patients and staff. Understanding that food plays a significant role in health and recovery, we seek someone who enjoys cooking and takes pride in providing quality meals in a caring environment.

Hours: Full-time (6:00am – 2:30pm, can rotate with 11:00am – 7:00pm) 

Essential job responsibilities include but are not limited to,

• Prepare and cook meals according to prescribed dietary guidelines and menus.
• Wash and prepare fruits, vegetables; arrange salad ingredients in attractive manner and refrigerate until mealtime.
• Prepare meats and fish in various ways; test food by tasting, smelling or piercing to determine that it is cooked-through; maintain proper temperatures for hot and cold foods.
• Ensure the kitchen maintains high standards of cleanliness and hygiene at all times.
• Collaborate with dietary staff and nutritionists to accommodate patients' dietary needs.
• Plan and prepare special meals for patients with food allergies or specific health concerns.
• Aid with tray set-up, salad preparation, and procuring food from refrigerator, freezer or other storage location.
• Participate in kitchen meetings to discuss menu items, food trends, and nutrition education.
• Responsible to check food and supplies for spoilage.
• Wear proper PPE (personal protective equipment) when performing job duties.
• Flexible and able to multi-task; can work within an ambiguous, fast-moving environment, while also driving toward clarity and solutions; demonstrated resourcefulness in setting priorities and guiding investment in people and systems.
• Must be able to perform the physical demands of the job with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance. Attend meetings, as requested.
• All other duties as assigned or requested.

Job Requirements include but are not limited to,

• High school diploma or equivalent; culinary training preferred.
• Proven experience as a cook in a restaurant or healthcare setting preferred but not required.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices preferred.
• Ability to prepare diverse meals, including vegetarian and specialized diets.
• Excellent time management skills with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with kitchen staff and healthcare teams.
• Positive attitude and a genuine passion for serving others through food.