Dietary Cook

Cardinal Care Strategies 

Dietary Cook 

The Dietary Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, appealing meals to residents in a long-term care setting. This role ensures meals meet dietary requirements, physician orders, and state and federal regulations, including those set by the Indiana Department of Health and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

• Prepare and cook meals according to standardized recipes and planned menus
• Follow therapeutic diets (e.g., low sodium, diabetic, pureed, mechanical soft)
• Ensure food is prepared, stored, and served in compliance with sanitation guidelines
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness and adhere to food safety standards (HACCP principles)
• Monitor food temperatures and maintain proper documentation
• Assist with food ordering, inventory, and stock rotation (FIFO method)
• Work closely with dietary aides and nursing staff to meet resident needs
• Accommodate special dietary requests and allergies
• Ensure timely meal service for residents

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Previous cooking experience in healthcare, long-term care, or institutional settings preferred
• Knowledge of therapeutic diets and food safety practices
• Ability to read and follow recipes and diet orders
• Strong attention to detail and time management skills

• Food Handler Certification (preferred)
• ServSafe Certification (preferred)
• Knowledge of regulations from the Indiana Department of Health

• Understanding of nutrition and dietary restrictions for elderly populations
• Safe food handling and sanitation practices
• Teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Compassion and respect for elderly residents

• Standing for long periods
• Exposure to hot surfaces, kitchen equipment, and cleaning chemicals
• Weekend, holiday, and shift work may be required

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Frequent bending, lifting, and reaching
• Ability to push/pull carts and kitchen equipment

Job Information