The Culinary Specialist provides full-scope, hands-on production cooking in a community Culinary program. Is responsible for maintaining a superior level of quality service and cleanliness at all times.

The essential duties and responsibilities described below are representative of those a team member encounters while performing the basic functions of the position. While every effort has been made to identify the essential functions of the position, it in no way states or implies that these are the only duties you will be required to perform. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or is an essential function of the position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Exemplify at all times community standards of cleanliness, sanitation, and operational organization. Responsible for adhering to food quality, appearance, and presentation standards at all times. Produce and serve menu cycle programs that are compliant with required Nutritional/Dietary criteria as required by local regulations and correctly prepare diets provided per policy and procedure. Exhibit cooking standards of speed, accuracy, and efficiency. Demonstrate knowledge in all areas of cooking preparation and production.

Visit residents periodically to evaluate food service such as quality, quantity, temperature, and appearance; and conduct evaluations to make revisions in operations/procedures to promote improved food service. The community embraces a culture of hospitality. To that end, all team members are expected as a condition of employment to practice excellent customer service in all interactions with residents, guests, and coworkers.

Plan, prepare, present, and deliver all meals served within the property. Maintain a sanitary work environment and conform to all local codes and policies regarding proper storage, handling, and serving of food. Inspect food storage rooms, utility/janitorial closets, etc., for upkeep and supply control. Perform administrative duties such as completing necessary forms, reports, evaluations, studies, etc., to assure control of equipment and supplies. Maintain a clean and orderly dining room(s).

Obtain and maintain Serv Safe/Food Handler’s Permit. As applicable, process diet changes and new diets received and cooperate in the therapeutic and regular diet plans and menus to assure they are in compliance with the physician’s orders. Plan and prepare food items for activities, marketing, and special events, as requested. Display tact and friendliness when dealing with residents, families, and visitors. Encourage teamwork through cooperative interactions with co-workers and other departments. Support a positive and professional image through actions and dress. Performs other duties consistent with the position as assigned by the Director of Culinary Experience.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: High school education or equivalent.

Experience: Experience of 1 year restaurant/senior living or equivalent cooking experience.

Mathematical Skills: Ability to make moderately complex mathematical calculations. Ability to make close estimates of quantities of food needed.

Reasoning Skills: Ability to follow approved, standardized recipes and menus for regular and therapeutic diets. Ability to make independent decisions with work without supervision.

Oral/Written Communication Skills: Ability to interact tactfully with residents and family members, team members, and general public. Ability to make decisions in stressful situations. Ability to communicate directions to all levels of team members, both in writing and verbally.

Equipment Used: Standard food production equipment for quantity food preparation. Personal computer.

Physical Effort: Must be mobile. Must be in good health and physically and mentally capable of performing assigned tasks.

Personal Characteristics: Possesses good character and displays a high degree of personal integrity. Displays sincere compassion towards cognitively impaired older adults. Demonstrates genuine concern for the physical and emotional needs of older people and their families.

Working Conditions: Well-lighted, air-conditioned health care environment. Ability to withstand extremes of heat and cold; ability to withstand odors from food preparation.

JOB RELATIONSHIPS

Supervised by: Director of Culinary Experience

• Maintaining a superior level of quality service.
• Opportunity for hands-on production cooking.
• Adherence to community standards of cleanliness and sanitation.
• Exposure to a culture of hospitality.

• High school education or equivalent.
• 1 year of restaurant/senior living or equivalent cooking experience.
• Ability to make moderately complex mathematical calculations.
• Ability to follow approved, standardized recipes and menus.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to interact tactfully with residents and families.
• Experience with standard food production equipment.