Cook/Dietary Aid PRN in Bellingham, Washington at Bellingham South of Cascadia LLC

About Us

Highland Health & Rehabilitation is a 44-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care to our residents. We take pride in building a workplace where staff feel respected, supported, and empowered to grow — because we know exceptional resident care starts with exceptional people.

About the Role

As a Cook/Dietary Aide, you'll be at the heart of our residents' daily experience — preparing nourishing, well-presented meals that meet both their nutritional needs and personal preferences. You'll work as part of a collaborative culinary team under the guidance of our Culinary Manager, contributing to a kitchen environment built on quality, safety, and teamwork.

Whether you're an experienced cook or looking to grow your skills in a long-term care setting, this role offers meaningful, hands-on work in a facility that genuinely values your contributions.

Why You'll Love Working Here

• Competitive pay starting at $19.13/hr

• Paid vacation and sick time (after introductory period)

• Supportive leadership that listens and invests in your success

• A team-oriented culture grounded in respect, compassion, and accountability

• Real opportunities for growth and advancement within the facility

What You'll Do

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:

• Prepare and serve meals for residents, employees, and special events following the planned menu and therapeutic diet guidelines

• Adapt menu items to meet individual resident needs, preferences, and diet orders

• Follow food safety and handling procedures at every stage of preparation and service

• Monitor and record food and refrigerator/freezer temperatures; report any issues to the Culinary Manager

• Maintain proper portion control and ensure meals are served attractively and on schedule

• Label, date, and store food and supplies according to established policies

• Keep the kitchen clean, organized, and secure throughout your shift

• Wash dishes and kitchen items using manual and/or automatic methods; log sanitizer and water temperatures

• Assist with receiving, storing, and verifying invoices for incoming food and supplies

• Report equipment issues, low stock levels, and any food safety concerns promptly

• Collaborate with team members across departments and interact warmly with residents, families, and visitors

What We're Looking For

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred

Certifications

• Food Handler's Permit (if required by state regulations)

Experience

• Minimum 6 months of experience in large-quantity food preparation

• Experience with therapeutic diet preparation preferred

• Experience in a long-term care or healthcare environment preferred

Skills & Qualities

• Knowledge of safe food preparation, handling, and basic nutrition principles

• Ability to work accurately and attentively in a fast-paced kitchen environment

• Strong communication skills and a patient, team-first attitude

• Basic math skills for portion control and recipe scaling

• Reliable, punctual, and committed to consistent attendance

Ready to Join Our Team?

If you're passionate about food, care about the people you serve, and want to work somewhere your work truly matters — we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and become part of the Highland Health & Rehabilitation family.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Licenses/Certification

Food Handlers permit if required per state regulations.

Experience

Six months’ experience in large quantity food preparation. Experience with therapeutic diet preparation preferred.

Six months experience in a long-term care environment preferred.

NOTE: Federal Child Labor Laws do not permit employees younger than 18 years of age to work with or repair, adjust, or clean power-driven machines such as meat slicers and commercial mixers. Therefore, individuals must be at least 18 years of age to be employed in this position.

Note: All employees of Cascadia Healthcare are required to submit and be cleared to work in the facility per each

state’s specific background check requirements prior to contact with patients/residents.