Cook (Full-Time)

Mercy Hospital St. Louis | St. Louis, MO

Overview

Mercy Hospital St. Louis is seeking a skilled and dependable Cook to join our Nutrition Services team. This position is responsible for food production throughout the department, preparing high-quality meals for patients, visitors, and co-workers while maintaining exceptional standards of food safety, sanitation, and customer service.

The ideal candidate will possess knowledge of a variety of cooking methods and techniques and have the ability to prepare visually appealing, nutritious meals in a fast-paced healthcare environment. This role is essential to supporting the healing and well-being of those we serve.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook food items according to approved recipes, production schedules, and quality standards.
• Demonstrate proficiency in a variety of cooking techniques, including chopping, slicing, grilling, steaming, reheating, and short-order cooking.
• Ensure food products and displays are presented in a visually appealing and appetizing manner.
• Maintain proper portion control and food presentation standards.
• Accurately measure, weigh, and prepare ingredients according to established recipes.
• Operate and maintain kitchen equipment safely, including ovens, grills, slicers, mixers, steamers, blenders, and choppers.
• Clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, and food preparation surfaces according to department and regulatory standards.
• Maintain accurate production and food safety records as required by policy.
• Assist with the setup and breakdown of catering events and special functions.
• Communicate inventory and product needs in a timely manner.
• Follow all Mercy Service Standards when interacting with patients, visitors, and fellow co-workers.
• Adhere to all food safety, infection prevention, and workplace safety policies.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support department operations and Mercy's Mission, Vision, and Values.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• Ability to successfully obtain and maintain ServSafe Certification within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to meet attendance, punctuality, and scheduling expectations.
• Ability to work safely and efficiently in a fast-paced food service environment.

Preferred Education

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred.

Certifications

• Food Handler Certification within 90 days of hire, where applicable.
• ServSafe Certification within six months of hire and maintained thereafter.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of food preparation techniques and commercial kitchen operations.
• Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Basic math skills for measuring, weighing, and portioning ingredients.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Ability to follow written recipes and production instructions.
• Demonstrates initiative, integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, and grip up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions, including grasping and pinching.
• Ability to work around hot equipment, sharp utensils, and food preparation equipment.

Why Mercy?

At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of unique people. Join a team that is dedicated to providing compassionate service, exceptional quality, and a positive experience for every patient and guest we serve.

Position Details

• Job Title: Cook
• Department: Food/Nutrition/Dietary
• Employment Type: Regular
• Status: Full-Time
• Location: Mercy Hospital St. Louis
• Scheduled Hours: 40 hours per week
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Join Mercy Hospital St. Louis and help create exceptional dining experiences that support healing and wellness every day.