Food Service Cook

Job Summary

The Food Services Worker II is responsible for preparing, assembling, and serving meals while maintaining cleanliness and food safety standards in a healthcare setting. This role ensures the timely delivery of meals to patients, staff, and visitors, following dietary guidelines and organizational policies. The Food Services Worker II may also assist with inventory management, food preparation, and maintaining compliance with health and sanitation regulations.

Essential Functions

• Prepares, portions, and serves food items according to standardized recipes, dietary guidelines, and patient meal plans.
• Assembles meal trays and ensures accurate food delivery to patients, following prescribed dietary restrictions.
• Maintains food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Cleans and sanitizes food preparation areas, equipment, and dining spaces to meet health and safety standards.
• Assists with inventory management, restocking supplies, and monitoring food quality to minimize waste.
• Handles cash register operations or payment processing (if applicable) in retail or cafeteria settings.
• Works collaboratively with kitchen staff, dietitians, and healthcare providers to meet patient dietary needs.
• Ensures proper storage, labeling, and handling of food products to prevent contamination.
• Follows infection control protocols, including the proper use of PPE and hand hygiene procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Other completion of a food service or hospitality training program preferred
• 1-3 years of experience in food service, cafeteria, or healthcare nutrition services required
• Experience in a hospital or long-term care facility preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of food preparation techniques, portion control, and dietary guidelines.
• Ability to operate kitchen equipment, food service tools, and dishwashing machines.
• Strong understanding of infection control, food safety, and sanitation standards.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills to interact with patients and staff.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions, including dietary restrictions and meal orders.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy in meal preparation and service.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining quality and efficiency.

Licenses and Certifications

• SAFE Serve Certification preferred

State Specific Requirements

• Arizona: Arizona Health Department Sanitation Certificate, ServeSafe Certificate, or Arizona Food Handler Certificate required.