Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review menus prior to preparation of food and cook food in the manner prescribed by the consulting dietician.
• Ensure that food and supplies are readily available for meal preparation.
• Perform record keeping requirements such as completing necessary forms, reports, etc., to ensure accurate food service records.
• Assist in coordinating dietary services with other departments as necessary.
• Ensure that all food service procedures are followed in accordance with established policies.
• Prepare diet changes as ordered by the physician through instruction of the Food Service Supervisor.
• Assure that meal production is palatable, appetizing in appearance, and served according to the unit serving schedules.
• Service food in accordance with established portion control procedures.
• Prepare food in accordance with standardized recipes and menu schedule.
• Required to meet and maintain TCHS Approved Driver Qualifications per policy number 100.007.52 and transport TCHS person served in any agency vehicle.
• Performs other reasonable and related job duties as requested.

Safety and Sanitation:

• Prepare food in accordance with sanitary regulations as well as our established policies and procedures.
• Assist in maintaining food storage areas in a clean and properly arranged manner at all times.
• Participate daily in scheduled cleaning duties in accordance with the scheduled kitchen chore list. Use the assigned cleaning chemicals at all times in the food service areas in accordance with MSDS requirements.
• Report all hazardous conditions/equipment immediately to the Food Service Supervisor.
• Ensure that safety regulations are followed at all times by all personnel.
• Report all accidents/incidents as established by department policy.
• Fill out and file reports as directed.

Personnel Functions:

• Develop and maintain a good working rapport with inter-department personnel as well as other departments to ensure that food service is properly maintained to meet the needs of the clients.
• Create and maintain an atmosphere of warmth, personal interest, and positive emphasis as well as a calm environment throughout the department.

Working Conditions:

• Stands, bends, sits, lifts and moves intermittently during working hours.
• Subject to frequent interruptions.
• Subject to call in for emergency conditions, e.g., severe weather, evacuations, and/or post disaster.

Specific Requirements:

• Must be able to cook a variety of foods in large quantities.
• Must be able to follow written and oral instructions.
• Must be able to move intermittently throughout the work shift.
• Possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, government agencies/personnel, and the general public.
• Possess the willingness to work harmoniously with supervisors and personnel.
• Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition, and enthusiasm as well as the ability to handle clients on the level of detoxification.

Minimum Training and Experience:

• Food service experience is preferred.
• A high school diploma or GED is preferred.
• Food Handler Certification is required or must be obtained within 30 days of employment.