Cook

Located in Blacksburg, VA

Job Title: Cook — Hospital Food Services
Department: Food and Nutrition Services
Reports To: Food Services Supervisor or Executive Chef
Location: Blacksburg, VA
Schedule: Full-time; shifts may include weekends and holidays

Position Summary

The Cook prepares nutritious, high-quality meals for patients, staff, and visitors. This role follows standardized recipes, approved menus, and prescribed dietary requirements while maintaining food safety, sanitation, and quality standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals according to standardized recipes, production schedules, and portion guidelines.
• Prepare meals for prescribed diets, including texture-modified meals, following approved instructions from the dietary team.
• Follow food allergy procedures and prevent cross-contact during preparation and service.
• Monitor and document food temperatures during cooking, holding, cooling, and storage.
• Coordinate with dietary staff to ensure meals are accurate and ready for scheduled service.
• Maintain clean and sanitary work areas, utensils, and kitchen equipment.
• Label, date, store, and rotate food supplies according to department procedures.
• Assist with receiving deliveries, checking inventory, and identifying supply needs.
• Minimize food waste while maintaining appropriate production levels.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and report equipment problems or safety concerns.
• Follow hospital policies, infection prevention practices, and applicable food safety requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous experience in institutional, healthcare, or high-volume food preparation preferred.
• Knowledge of cooking methods, standardized recipes, portion control, and safe food handling.
• Ability to read recipes, follow written instructions, and perform basic measurements and calculations.
• Ability to work effectively with a team and meet meal service deadlines.
• Food handler certification or food safety training as required by the hospital and applicable local requirements.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

The position involves prolonged standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting or moving food supplies and kitchen equipment. Work takes place in a busy kitchen with exposure to heat, cold, moisture, and noise. Essential duties must be performed safely, with reasonable accommodation as applicable.