Skip to Main Content

Job Title


Lead Cook - River Valley I Grand Rapids - 1st Shift Full Time


Company : Hope Network Behavioral Health


Location : Grand Rapids, MI


Created : 2026-02-25


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: This is not intended to be an exhaustive listing of job functions.  This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee.  The employee is required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other duties as assigned by management. 1. Regular and predictable attendance is an essential requirement of this position. 2. Supervise the planning of special events for consumers and staff including, but not limited to the following: Holiday events, family functions/picnics, etc. 3. Participate in all team meetings and staff meetings as assigned 4. Attend and participate in workshops, seminars, etc. as directed (i.e. Proper food handling, sanitation procedures, etc.). Successfully complete all required training 5. Participate in all inspections performed by authorized government agencies as needed.  6. Maintain confidentiality of all resident information. 7. Assure that the preparation, storage and service of food is in accordance with sanitary regulations and established policies and procedures.  Follow established Infection Control and Universal Precautions policies and procedures when performing daily tasks.  Dispose of food and waste in accordance with established policies. Plan and prepare meals for therapeutic diets in accordance with planned menus, utilizing standardized recipes and diet orders.   Document any menu changes and make only authorized substitutions. Assure that food and supplies are readily available for the next meal’s preparation by reviewing the upcoming menus 8. Assure that daily and weekly scheduled cleaning duties in accordance with established policies and procedures. Assure that dietary service work areas, dining rooms, storage rooms, and equipment are maintained in a clean, safe, and sanitary manner, and in compliance with all applicable regulations. 9. Develop and maintain a good working relationship with inter and intra departmental personnel within the facility to assure that food service can be properly maintained to meet the needs of the residents and staff. 10. Other duties as assigned. Addendum for Essential Functions if Applicable for multiple departments:1. Safe Serve Certification required by Senior Meals- Side By Side Program2. Order Meals based on attendance3. Provide those with special diets alternative meals4. Follow guidelines set by Senior Meals on Wheels for a congregate meal site5. Heat food to appropriate temperature 6. Serve participants hot meal once it is at a safe temperature7. Follow participants dietary preferences and restrictions8. Sanitize kitchen area before and after serving9. Check all fridge temps that have food items in them and report any concerns to management10. Document participants and volunteers who receive meals11. Prep afternoon snack and create snack menu12. Complete inventory check supplies monthly Educational / Talent Requirements: Must possess, as a minimum, a High School Diploma or GED. Must be able to cook a variety of foods in large quantities. Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language in an understandable manner. Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such actions. Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel and the general public. One (1) year dietary experience in a hospital, skilled nursing care facility, or other medical facility preferred. Must be knowledgeable of dietary procedures. Must possess leadership ability to coordinate kitchen responsibilities and duties. Must be able to follow oral and written instructions. Must maintain the care and use of supplies, equipment, appearance or work areas, regular inspection of food service areas for sanitation, order, safety, and proper performance of assigned duties. Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition, and enthusiasm, as well as be willing to handle residents based on whatever maturity level they are currently functioning. Required to lift, push, pull and move equipment, supplies, etc., in excess of fifty (50) pounds throughout the workday. Must possess the ability to seek out new methods and principles and be willing to recommend them to supervisor. Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record according to Hope Network Behavioral Health Services insurance carrier definitions. Ability to articulate and actively support the mission of the corporation to various audiences. Work Experience Requirements:  Prefer 1 to 2 years of dietary experience in a hospital, skilled nursing care facility. Excellent Written and verbal communication skills. Previous work experience required   Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such actions. Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel and the general public. Must be knowledgeable of dietary procedures. Must possess leadership ability to coordinate kitchen responsibilities and duties. Must possess a valid driver's license. Ability to articulate and actively support the mission of the corporation to various audiences.  Performance Requirements: Must be able to follow oral and written instructions. Must maintain the care and use of supplies, equipment, appearance or work areas, regular inspection of food service areas for sanitation, order, safety, and proper performance of assigned duties. Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition, and enthusiasm, as well as be willing to handle residents based on whatever maturity level they are currently functioning. Required to lift, push, pull and move equipment, supplies, etc., in excess of fifty (50) pounds throughout the workday. Must possess the ability to seek out new methods and principles and be willing to recommend them to supervisor. Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.