Kitchen, Culinary, Dietary Assistant

Job Description – Dietary Aide 
Reports Directly to: Head of Culinary Services

Description of Position

The Dietary Aide assists with food preparation, meal service, and kitchen cleanup in accordance with facility policies and resident dietary needs. The Dietary Aide plays an important role in maintaining a clean, organized, and respectful dining environment. This individual supports the Cook and the dietary department by ensuring that residents receive meals that are appetizing, timely, and consistent with their care plans. 

Qualifications for the Position

The Dietary Aide shall be at least eighteen (18) years of age, have a criminal clearance prior to presence in the facility, and possess a high school diploma (or equivalent, such as a General Education Development certificate). The Dietary Aide will also have passed a physical and have a chest x-ray (or an intradermal test) performed by a physician within the prior six months of employment. The physician’s report shall indicate physical qualification to perform duties and no health conditions that would create a hazard to self, staff, or residents. The other requirements of the Dietary Aide are: 1. Experience in food service preferred, especially in a healthcare or assisted living setting. 2. Knowledge of basic kitchen sanitation, safe food handling, and infection control procedures. 3. Ability to follow directions and work well as part of a team. 4. Good communication skills and a respectful, patient manner with elderly residents. 5. Ability to manage multiple tasks during meal service times. 6. Good character and continuing reputation for reliability and personal integrity. 

 

Basic First Aid certification is preferred. The individual must have the physical ability to lift up to 30 pounds, stand for extended periods, bend, reach, and safely operate dishwashing equipment and cleaning tools. 

The individual must be able to communicate effectively with residents, families, and staff, and be able to document and report resident changes.

 

The Dietary Aide shall have a criminal record clearance prior to presence in the facility. The Dietary Aide will have a TB test clearance within 7 days of employment and the health screening completed within 7 days of employment. 

• Set up and clean dining room areas before and after meals. • Prepare dining trays, place settings, and serve meals according to resident care plans. • Assist in food preparation under the direction of the Cook. • Deliver and retrieve meal trays to and from resident rooms when needed. • Clean and sanitize dishes, cookware, and kitchen surfaces after each meal. • Store food and supplies properly and help rotate inventory to maintain freshness. • Assist with labeling and dating food items and ensuring compliance with food safety standards. • Ensure residents receive appropriate substitutions for modified diets (e.g., mechanical soft, pureed). • Report any resident concerns (e.g., refusal to eat, allergies, or feedback) to the Cook or Culinary Services Director. • Assist with special event meal setups and refreshments for activities as needed. • Maintain professional conduct and adhere to resident rights and facility policies. • Comply with health department, licensing, and facility standards for sanitation and cleanliness. • Attend in-service training and staff meetings as required. • Perform other duties as assigned by the Culinary Services Director or Cook.

 

Education:

Ability to read, write and speak English.