Summary:
We are seeking a dependable and compassionate School Cook to prepare nutritious meals for students with a variety of dietary, medical, sensory, and feeding needs. The ideal candidate has experience working in a special needs school, assisted living facility, healthcare setting, or another environment requiring modified diets and careful food preparation. This role requires strong attention to food safety, allergens, portioning, food textures, and individualized meal plans. What You’ll Do: - Prepare and serve nutritious meals and snacks according to established menus and student-specific dietary plans.
- Accommodate food allergies, intolerances, medical diets, religious restrictions, and other specialized dietary needs.
- Prepare texture-modified meals, including soft, minced, pureed, or thickened items, based on written feeding guidelines.
- Prevent cross-contact and cross-contamination when preparing allergen-sensitive meals.
- Measure ingredients, follow recipes, and maintain appropriate portion sizes.
- Monitor food temperatures and follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection-control procedures.
- Clean and sanitize kitchen equipment, utensils, food-preparation areas, and serving areas.
- Maintain inventory and notify the appropriate staff when food or supplies need to be reordered.
- Collaborate with school nurses, classroom staff, therapists, and administrators regarding students’ dietary and feeding requirements.
- Report any concerns involving meal preparation, food safety, allergies, or feeding instructions immediately.
Experience You’ll Need: - Previous cooking or food-service experience in a special needs school, assisted living facility, nursing home, healthcare facility, daycare, or similar setting.
- Experience preparing meals for individuals with dietary restrictions, food allergies, swallowing difficulties, or specialized feeding needs.
- Understanding of texture-modified foods, portion control, allergen awareness, and cross-contact prevention.
- Knowledge of proper food handling, sanitation, storage, and temperature-control practices.
- Ability to follow written menus, recipes, dietary plans, and feeding instructions carefully.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to communicate professionally and work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Food Handler or ServSafe certification preferred or required within a specified period after hire.
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and safely lift and carry kitchen supplies and equipment.
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