Dietary Cook

Charlottesville Health & Rehabilitation Center -

Charlottesville Health & Rehabilitation Center in Charlottesville, Virginia is currently seeking a Cook for our Dining Services Department. We know food brings people together, and dining is an important part of the outstanding experience we provide for our patients.

Are you someone who takes pride in making a meaningful difference in the lives of others? Join a team where your passion can shine through in work that truly matters.

At Aramark SeniorLIFE , we serve thousands of seniors living in assisted living, independent living, skilled nursing, and memory care communities. Everything we do helps make each day special for the residents we serve. From providing delicious dining experiences to keeping spaces clean, safe, and welcoming, we create moments that bring joy, promote wellness, and support vibrant, fulfilling lives. With seniors at the heart of what we do, we are dedicated to nurturing lives and creating meaningful connections. Bring your purpose and passion to SeniorLIFE and be part of a team that makes every moment count.

JOB SUMMARY

As a Cook at SeniorLife , you play a critical role in preparing nutritious, flavorful, and well-balanced meals that cater to the dietary needs of our senior residents. You will follow established menus, food safety regulations, and client standards, ensuring the highest quality in every dish served. This role demands a strong knowledge of scratch / batch cooking, the ability to prepare therapeutic diets, and a passion for culinary excellence in a healthcare or senior living setting.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Food Preparation & Cooking o Prepare and cook flavorful, yet visually appealing meals following standardized recipes, nutritional guidelines, and resident dietary needs.

o Demonstrate proficiency in scratch cooking, batch preparation, and therapeutic diet modifications.

o Utilize various cooking methods, including baking, roasting, broiling, steaming, and sautéing.

o Adjust menus as needed to accommodate dietary modifications and resident preferences.

2. Compliance & Food Safety o Follow all state, federal, and local food safety regulations, including proper food handling, sanitation, and storage guidelines. o Maintain clean equipment, utensils, and a sanitary workstation.

o Comply with infection control policies and wear protective equipment as required.

3. Meal Service & Presentation

o Assist with plating, garnishing, and portioning meals to meet presentation standards.

o Serve meals efficiently while accommodating resident preferences within dietary guidelines.

o Offer alternative meal options for residents with special dietary needs.

4. Team Collaboration & Administration

o Coordinate with the Dietary Manager, dietitians, and healthcare staff to meet resident needs.

o Assist with inventory management, food ordering, and proper storage procedures.

o Complete required reports, documentation, and compliance forms accurately.

5. Resident-Centered Approach

Job Title : Cook

Department : Culinary Services

Reports to : Food Service Manager

o Build positive relationships with residents to enhance their dining experience.

o Demonstrate patience, compassion, and professionalism in a senior living environment.

o Provide excellent customer service to residents, guests, and team members.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

1. Experience

o Minimum of one year as a cook in a healthcare, senior living, or related setting.

o Familiarity with therapeutic diets (e.g., diabetic, low-sodium, mechanical soft, pureed).

o Strong knowledge of safe food handling, batch cooking, and scratch cooking.

2. Certifications

o Must obtain and maintain a Food Manager’s Certification and / or SERV Safe Certification (or be willing to acquire upon hire; state-specific).

3. Skills & Abilities

o Strong understanding of food preparation techniques and various cooking methods.

o Ability to convert recipes, measure ingredients accurately, and maintain portion control.

o Familiarity with kitchen equipment such as ovens, slicers, steamers, and mixers.

o Effective time management to ensure meals align with scheduled service times.

o Strong teamwork and communication skills.

4. Physical Requirements o Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs., and perform repetitive tasks such as bending, pushing, and pulling.

o Adhere to all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements.

5. Availability & Scheduling o Flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and varying shifts including early mornings, mid-day and evening shifts as needed o Availability for early morning, midday, and evening shifts as needed.

o Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-demand environment while maintaining quality.

o Strong attendance and reliability to ensure consistent meal service for residents.

WHY JOIN SENIORLIFE ?

At SeniorLife , we believe in investing in our employees and creating an environment where they thrive professionally and personally. As a Cook, you’ll enjoy :

• Competitive Pay & Benefits Package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and more).
• Work-Life Balance with stable hours in a fulfilling and rewarding environment.
• Training & Professional Development to enhance your culinary career.
• Opportunities for Career Growth within SeniorLife and Aramark.
• A Culture of Respect, Support, and Teamwork.