Cooks in Spokane, Washington at Magnolia Operations LLC

Core Responsibilities

• Meal preparation: Plan and cook meals according to approved menus, often designed by dietitians.
• Special diets: Prepare food for patients with specific dietary needs (e.g., low sodium, diabetic, allergy-sensitive).
• Food safety: Follow strict sanitation and food handling standards (like HACCP guidelines).
• Portion control: Ensure consistent serving sizes that meet nutritional requirements.
• Kitchen cleanliness: Maintain a clean, organized kitchen and properly store food.

Behavioral Health–Specific Duties

• Safety awareness: Use equipment and utensils carefully; some items may be restricted depending on the facility.
• Structured environment: Follow routine meal schedules that support patient stability.
• Patient interaction: Occasionally interact with patients in a calm, respectful way (though this depends on the facility).
• Observation: Report any unusual patient behavior noticed during meal service to clinical staff.

Collaboration

• Work with:

1. Dietitians or nutritionists
2. Nurses and behavioral health staff
3. Facility management

• Experience in cooking (healthcare or institutional settings preferred)
• Knowledge of nutrition basics
• Food safety certification (often required)
• Ability to follow strict procedures
• Patience and professionalism in a healthcare environment