Cook Lead

Find your calling at Mercy!

Performs general hot and cold production duties within the food service department. Ensures a clean, quiet, and productive environment for all coworkers and visitors. Assures that quality food service is provided at all times. Functions in a lead position and assists with training of all new coworkers. Demonstrates the ability to gain respect and instill trust in the coworkers (i.e., lead by example). Maintains high standard of cleanliness, sanitation, and safety. Will also be available for special catering events and performs all duties and responsibilities in a timely manner.

Position Details:

Lead Cook - Full Time Nights

Mercy Hospital St. Louis | St. Louis, MO

Job Summary

Mercy Hospital St. Louis is seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Cook to join our Nutrition Services team. This full-time leadership role is responsible for coordinating daily food production activities, preparing high-quality hot and cold food items, ensuring food safety and sanitation standards are consistently met, and providing guidance and training to Nutrition Services coworkers. The Lead Cook serves as a role model for the team, promotes a positive work environment, and helps ensure exceptional food service for patients, visitors, and coworkers.

This position is currently supporting the overnight shift and plays a critical role in maintaining efficient operations, quality standards, and excellent customer service throughout the hospital.

Primary Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Support

• Serve as a lead resource for Nutrition Services staff, providing coaching, training, and day-to-day guidance.
• Assist with onboarding and training new coworkers.
• Foster teamwork and collaboration across shifts while promoting a respectful and professional work environment.
• Serve as a liaison between management and frontline staff.
• Monitor productivity and workflow to ensure efficient departmental operations.
• Lead by example through professionalism, accountability, and adherence to departmental standards.

Food Production & Quality

• Prepare hot and cold food items according to standardized recipes and production schedules.
• Demonstrate knowledge of regular and modified diets to support patient nutritional needs.
• Ensure foods are attractively presented and meet quality expectations.
• Monitor production levels and make adjustments to minimize overproduction and waste.
• Assist with recipe development and menu execution as assigned.
• Support special events and catering functions when needed.

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Follow all food safety, infection prevention, and sanitation standards.
• Demonstrate safe handling of food, supplies, and kitchen equipment.
• Monitor and document food and equipment temperatures according to policy.
• Utilize proper food storage and inventory rotation procedures, including FIFO practices.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment using "clean as you go" principles.
• Support departmental readiness for health inspections and quality audits.

Communication & Customer Service

• Maintain professional, courteous, and respectful interactions with patients, visitors, coworkers, and leadership.
• Communicate effectively regarding food quality, production concerns, and equipment issues.
• Accept and provide constructive feedback to support continuous improvement.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with all hospital policies and procedures.

Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to all Mercy safety policies, including fire, severe weather, infection prevention, and environmental safety procedures.
• Follow incident reporting and risk management protocols.
• Maintain compliance with patient rights and confidentiality regulations.
• Demonstrate knowledge of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and safe workplace practices.

Qualifications

Required

• Serve Safe Manager Certification within 90 days of hire (St. Louis market requirement).
• Ability to operate commercial kitchen equipment, including ovens, slicers, and food processors.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

Preferred

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous hospital, healthcare, or institutional food service experience.
• Prior leadership, lead, or training experience in food service.
• Knowledge of therapeutic diets, food production systems, and inventory management.

Why Join Mercy?

At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of each coworker. Our mission-centered culture combines compassionate care with an exceptional workplace environment where coworkers are valued, supported, and empowered to grow professionally while making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families.

Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.