Cooking Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Cook

Reports To: Dietary Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

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Position Summary

This position is responsible for preparing and cooking meals according to posted menus and recipes, ensuring food safety and sanitation standards are met, supporting kitchen operations, and contributing to a positive dining experience for residents.

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Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Core duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Meal Preparation & Cooking

• Prepare, cook, and serve meals according to posted menus, recipes, and portion standards
• Ensure meals are nutritious, visually appealing, and served at proper temperatures
• Prepare special diets as directed, including therapeutic and modified diets
• Assist with meal service and plating

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Follow proper food handling, storage, labeling, and rotation procedures
• Maintain clean and sanitary kitchen, prep, and cooking areas
• Monitor and document food and equipment temperatures
• Ensure compliance with all health department and food safety regulations

Kitchen Operations & Team Support

• Coordinate meal preparation with prep cooks and kitchen staff
• Assist with inventory control, stocking, and rotating supplies
• Report equipment issues or supply shortages promptly
• Support smooth kitchen workflow during meal periods

Resident Satisfaction & Customer Service

• Support a positive dining atmosphere for residents and guests
• Respond professionally to food-related concerns and communicate feedback to leadership
• Maintain respectful interactions with residents, families, and coworkers

Compliance & Professional Standards

• Follow all company policies, procedures, and Employee Handbook guidelines
• Maintain compliance with DHS 83 and DHS 89 regulations as applicable
• Attend required meetings, trainings, and in-service programs
• Maintain professional appearance, punctuality, and dependability

General Responsibilities

• Respond appropriately to emergencies within scope of practice
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Dietary Manager or leadership team

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Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not have formal supervisory responsibilities.

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Qualifications

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required
• Previous cooking or food service experience required
• Experience in senior living, healthcare, or institutional dining preferred

Certificates, Licenses, and Training

• Food safety certification preferred
• CBRF training in First Aid/Choking, Fire Safety, and Standard Precautions training preferred

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Skills and Competencies

• Strong cooking and food preparation skills
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
• Ability to follow recipes and dietary requirements
• Time management and organizational skills
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Dependability, professionalism, and attention to detail

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Schedule and Availability

• Flexible schedule including weekends and holidays as required
• Hours based on community meal service needs

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Physical Demands

The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made.

• Regular standing, walking, bending, and reaching
• Frequent lifting, carrying, and moving kitchen equipment and supplies
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50–100 pounds

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Work Environment

• Moderate to high noise level typical of a senior living kitchen and dining environment

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Acknowledgment

I acknowledge that I have received and reviewed this job description during orientation. I understand that it outlines the general responsibilities and expectations of the Cook role and that duties may be adjusted based on community needs, regulatory requirements, or management direction.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required for the position.