Chef in Ann Arbor, Michigan at Hillside Terrace

Tired of grueling 4:00am restaurant openings and 2:00am closings? Transition your elite culinary talents into a rewarding Chef career that offers exceptional work-life balance, predictable daytime hours, and a chance to make a prolonged daily impact in the life of seniors. We are seeking an innovative, passionate Chef/Cook to join our diverse dining services including Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Specialized Care neighborhoods. At Hillside Terrace Senior Living, our culinary team does more than prepare meals. They create exceptional appealing meals that provide our residents comfort, connection, and care. If you take pride in consistency, ensuring quality tasteful meals, and teamwork, this is the role for you!

About the Role

You will prepare and plate meals that appeal to all of our residents’ eyes and palates while meeting their dietary needs and preferences. You’ll work closely with our Executive Chef, nursing staff, and life enrichment team to ensure meals support residents’ nutrition and overall quality of life. We are seeking a passionate, creative and organized Chef/Cook to lead our dining room team and elevate our menu offerings. We pride ourselves on using locally sourced, seasonal fresh vegetables/ingredients to create innovative tasty dishes.

What You’ll Do

Ensure exceptional plating and presentation of every dish that leaves the kitchen linePrepare and cook meals according to established menus and dietary guidelinesOversee daily back-of-house (BOH) cooks' line while ensuring the highest standards of culinary executionEnsure all food preparation and storage meet safety, hygiene, and sanitation standardsAccommodate specialized diets, including diabetic, low-sodium, or allergen-sensitive mealsAssist with menu planning ideas, prep, and inventory management alongside the Executive ChefMaintain a clean, organized kitchen and workstationCommunicate effectively with the kitchen and nursing care teams regarding resident needsContribute to a positive, homelike dining experience for residents and guests

Required Qualifications

Proven experience in food preparation and cooking (healthcare, senior living, or institutional experience preferred)Batch cooking experience a plusAbility to read, write, and speak English for clear communication across the lineExperience in following Menu Production sheets and Menu Count sheetsKnowledge of food safety and sanitation practicesPhysical stamina to stand, lift, and work efficiently throughout shiftsDependable, team-oriented approach to work

Preferred Qualifications

Food safety or culinary certificationExperience in Assisted Living or Senior Living environmentsExperience working under a Head Chef and within a structured kitchen team

Pay, Benefits, & Perks

Competitive pay based on experienceMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with company matchGenerous paid time off and holiday payFree meals during shiftsSupportive team environmentOpportunities for growth and advancementNo late nights (out by 7:30pm)Flexible shifts available

Why Hillside?

At Hillside Terrace, cooking is about more than meals. It’s about care. Our senior living chefs are valued members of the team, helping residents feel at home, nourished, and supported. If you’re looking for meaningful work, a consistent work/life balanced schedule, and a team that values what you bring to the table, we’d love to meet you!