Lead Cook
The Village at Orchard Ridge – Lead Cook: Join Our Culture of Care and Culinary Excellence!
Job Title: Lead Cook
Job Type: PRN (As Needed)
Shift: Flexible Scheduling – Work When You’re Available!
Salary Range: $16.50 - $21.00/hour (Final offer per hour will reflect the candidate's demonstrated skills and relevant experience)
At The Village at Orchard Ridge, every meal is an opportunity to enrich lives and create memorable experiences. We are seeking a dedicated and talented Lead Cook to join our compassionate culinary team on a PRN basis. If you are passionate about preparing delicious, nutritious meals and thrive in a collaborative, resident-focused environment, we invite you to bring your expertise to our community.
Why You’ll Love Working with Us
- Lead with Purpose: Your culinary leadership will nourish and delight residents, making a meaningful impact every day.
- Team Collaboration: Work with a supportive kitchen and dining team that values your creativity and ideas.
- Professional Growth: Expand your culinary and leadership skills in a positive, encouraging setting.
- Rewarding Environment: Experience the satisfaction of cooking for a community that appreciates your talent and dedication.
What You’ll Do
- Oversee meal preparation and cooking in accordance with planned menus, dietary guidelines, and resident preferences.
- Ensure all food is prepared, cooked, and served safely, adhering to food safety and sanitation standards.
- Lead meal service and presentation to create an enjoyable dining experience for residents.
- Accommodate special diets and menu changes as needed, including therapeutic and texture-modified diets.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, including equipment, supplies, and work areas.
- Assist with inventory management, storage, and proper labeling of food and supplies.
- Communicate effectively with dietary staff and other team members to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
- Support special events, parties, or themed meals as needed.
- Ensure compliance with all policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements for food service in a healthcare setting.
- Provide guidance and support to kitchen staff as needed.
What We’re Looking For
- Maintains high standards for kitchen operations, including food preparation, plating, and cleanliness.
- Prepares meals from standardized recipes, ensuring proper portioning, safe handling, and quality presentation.
- Oversees total kitchen operations, leads cooks during shifts, and ensures compliance with policies and health codes.
- Sets up food service lines, coordinates prep for upcoming menus, and assists with ordering and menu creation.
- Manages inventory, rotates and labels perishables, and minimizes food waste.
- Ensures accurate documentation, food temperature checks, and proper storage after meal service.
- Expedites the hot food line, resolves issues as appropriate, and collaborates with team members across departments.
- Provides a clean, safe environment and performs other duties as assigned.
As part of National Lutheran Communities and Services, we offer great PERKS and BENEFITS to promote a better quality of life for our team members.
Our Comprehensive Benefits Include:
- Earn up to 5 weeks of PTO in your first year!
- 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Employer-paid life and disability insurance
- Pet insurance to keep your furry friends happy
- Team member recognition programs and discounted meals
- Up to $4,000 annual tuition reimbursement for continued education
At The Village at Orchard Ridge, you’re not just a cook—you’re a vital leader in a community that values exceptional food, joyful moments, and teamwork.
Apply today and help us make every meal memorable!
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