About the Position
We are seeking a dependable, organized, and compassionate Cook/Kitchen Manager for our small 15-bed assisted living community. This is a hands-on, independent position ideal for someone who enjoys cooking homemade-style meals, building relationships with residents, and taking pride in maintaining a clean, organized kitchen.
The ideal candidate will be comfortable managing the kitchen independently while working closely with the community director and caregiving staff to ensure residents receive nutritious, appealing meals and snacks while maintaining compliance with state regulations and food safety standards.
Primary Responsibilities
Prepare and serve daily breakfast and lunch meals for residents
Prepare or pre-stage dinner items for evening staff
Plan and organize simple, nutritious menus
Order food and kitchen supplies within budget guidelines
Maintain kitchen cleanliness, sanitation, and organization
Properly label, date, rotate, and store food items in compliance with food safety requirements and Wisconsin assisted living regulations (HFS 83)
Monitor refrigerator and freezer temperatures and maintain required logs
Ensure compliance with food handling, sanitation, and infection control standards
Maintain organized food inventory and communicate supply needs proactively
Accommodate dietary needs, texture modifications, and resident preferences as directed
Work cooperatively with caregiving staff and management team
Help create a warm, welcoming dining experience for residents
Qualifications
Prior cooking or kitchen management experience preferred
Experience in assisted living, healthcare, senior living, hospitality, school, or restaurant settings is helpful
Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen organization standards
Familiarity with assisted living or healthcare kitchen requirements is preferred
Ability to work independently and stay organized
Dependable attendance and strong time management skills
Positive attitude and team-oriented approach
Ability to multitask in a small, fast-paced environment
What We're Looking For
We are looking for someone who is reliable, calm under pressure, self-motivated, and takes ownership of their kitchen. The right candidate will enjoy creating quality meals while helping support a positive environment for residents and staff.