Cook

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Dietary Supervisor, the Cook is responsible for ensuring that all meals and nourishments are prepared and served in a safe, appropriate manner. As a valued member of Long Term Care and Seniors Services, the Cook demonstrates a commitment to Resident Safety by providing quality care in accordance with the organization’s mission and vision.

Full Time, part Time and Casual opportunities available

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (not listed in order of priority)

1. Assist the Dietary Supervisor in ensuring that the requirements of the Long Term Care Homes Act 2007 and other appropriate legislation are implemented in the dietary department.

2. Ensure that established policies, procedures and work assignments are followed and provide direction to Dietary Aides accordingly.

3. Ensure that meals are prepared and adequate portions are served on time and at the proper temperature in accordance with the menu/therapeutic menu or substitutions approved by the Dietary Supervisor.

4. Ensure that menus are posted and dated.

5. Ensure that the approved recipes and production sheets are followed in the preparation of meals.

6. Record and adjust quantities on the production sheet as required.

7. Ensure that cleaning and maintenance schedules, sanitary and safety procedures are carried out; report all equipment failures and breakdowns promptly to the Dietary Supervisor or Administrator. Promptly correct any unsanitary/unsafe conditions.

8. Supervise Dietary Aides in the performance of their duties and assume responsibility for the efficient operation of the dietary department in the absence of the Dietary Supervisor.

9. Ensure that care and services are delivered in environments that support safe resident care. Ensure that processes are maintained to support safe environments for all residents, visitors and staff

10. Ensure that food and equipment is prepared, stored and handled in accordance with infection control policies and procedures.

11. Ensure that equipment is maintained and operated according to the manufacturer’s specifications and directions.

12. Assist the Dietary Supervisor in the purchasing, receiving, checking and storage of foods and other supplies and maintain food records as required.

13. Prepare special diets and ensure that they are provided as required.

14. Undertake inventory of food and supplies as directed by Dietary Supervisor.

15. Assist in the maintenance of optimal safety standards to ensure the safety of residents and other staff.

16. Assist in the orientation of new staff to the department (Dietary Aides and Cooks).

17. Attend in-service education sessions, staff meetings, committee meetings, workshops etc. as directed by the Dietary Supervisor.

18. Assist in the implementation of quality management mechanisms as directed by the Dietary Supervisor.

19. Participates in and demonstrates an understanding of resident safety principles and practices into all day-to-day activities. Follows safe work practices and procedures and immediately communicates any activity or action which may constitute a risk to Resident Safety

20. Acts as a member of the inter-disciplinary team within the Home.

21. Effectively utilizes all electronic systems provided.

22. Perform other related duties as assigned.

23. Works in compliance with the Occupational Health & Safety Act and the Long Term Care Homes Act, and their regulations in performing duties in a safe manner and follows all County of Simcoe Health & Safety policies, procedures and legislation.

24. Maintain confidentiality in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Personal Health Information Protection Act.

EDUCATION, TECHNICAL SKILLS AND CERTIFICATION

• Strong practicing knowledge of culinary practices preferably within a Long Term care setting, that has enabled the candidate to obtain a certificate of completion of 1 of the following; Red Seal Cook 415(A), Assistant Cook 415 ( B) or Institutional Cook 415 (D) from the College of Trades, Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities OR a Culinary Management Diploma or Nutritional Management Diploma that meets the requirements of the MOHLTC under the LTCHA, 2007 and Regulation 79/10 Sec 76 (2).

• Proof of or proof of enrolment as an Apprentice for the Cook trades designated 415 (A or B or D) with the College of trades Ministry of Training Colleges, Universities and Immigration within the first 3 months.

• Meet the requirements of Challenge for the written knowledge based exam for the Cook trades designated 415 (A or B or D) with the College of Trades, Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities within the first 3 months of hire.

• Current proof of Safety Handlers Certificate, or proof of enrolment and successful completion within the first 3 months of hire.

• Understanding of therapeutic diets.

• Knowledgeable of the nutritional needs of the geriatric population.

• Ability to cook and prepare modified textures to meet industry standards for Dysphagia.

• Possess good communication and interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated leadership skills and have the ability to supervise.

• Criminal Records Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening that is less than six (6) months old at time of hire.

• As a condition of employment, candidates are required to submit documented results of TB testing, as per Public Health requirements (can be completed at the home).

Educational Assistance

Candidates are encouraged to apply if they have a minimum of 2 years hands on food cooking/preparation experience and are committed to successfully completing the necessary certification as outlined above.

The County of Simcoe is committed to professional staff development and has an educational reimbursement program to support dedicated individuals in the following Cook certificates and programs; Foodservice Worker Program, Cooks Trades Certificates (415(A,B,D)) and Culinary & Nutritional management programs as set forth by the Ministry of Long-term Care.

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum two (2) years previous cooking experience, preferably in a long-term care home, or retirement, hospital or institutional setting.

• Experience with preparation of cooking a variety of food in large quantities.

EFFORT

• Standing, walking, lifting and moving heavy items on a daily basis.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• This position is located in a long term care facility, exposure to illnesses and germs are possible on a daily basis.

• Work schedule to be determined; shifts may include days, evenings, nights and weekends.

The County of Simcoe thanks all applicants for their interest in this opportunity, but please note that only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Personal information provided is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act (2001) and will be used to determine eligibility for employment.