Cook – Gables Lodge

Location: Amherst, Nova Scotia
Department: Dietary Services
Position: Cook

Become a Member of the GEM Family!

At GEM Health Care Group, we are committed to providing exceptional care, service, and quality of life for our residents in a safe, welcoming, and home-like environment.

We offer an inclusive and supportive work environment, competitive benefits, and opportunities for learning and professional development. Our employees are the foundation of our organization, and every team member plays an important role in creating a positive experience for our residents.

If you take pride in preparing delicious, nutritious meals and enjoy working as part of a team, we invite you to consider joining the dietary team at Gables Lodge!

Position Summary

Reporting to the designated manager, the Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, attractive, and appealing meals and snacks for residents, as well as food for special functions and catered activities as required.

The Cook plays an important role in residents' daily lives by ensuring meals meet established menus, therapeutic diet requirements, portion standards, and food safety regulations. The successful candidate will maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized kitchen while working collaboratively with Dietary Aides and other team members to provide quality food service in a long-term care environment.

Key ResponsibilitiesFood Preparation and Quality

- Prepare and cook nutritious, flavourful, and visually appealing meals and snacks in accordance with approved menus, recipes, and established portion sizes.
- Follow Canada’s Food Guide principles and applicable nutritional guidelines when preparing meals.
- Ensure meals meet residents' individual dietary requirements, including therapeutic diets, food textures, and consistency requirements as directed.
- Prepare food for special events, celebrations, and catered functions as required.
- Monitor food quality, temperature, presentation, and portion control to ensure consistent standards.
- Communicate with the dietary team regarding menu substitutions, ingredient availability, and any concerns affecting meal service.

Food Safety and Sanitation

- Follow all applicable food safety regulations, infection prevention and control practices, and organizational policies and procedures.
- Maintain a clean, sanitary,



and organized kitchen and food preparation area.
- Safely operate kitchen equipment and ensure equipment is cleaned, maintained, and used appropriately.
- Follow proper food storage, labelling, rotation, temperature monitoring, and handling procedures.
- Identify and report food safety concerns, equipment issues, and potential hazards promptly.

Inventory and Cost Control

- Use food, supplies, and other materials responsibly to minimize waste and remain within established budgets.
- Assist with monitoring food inventory and communicating supply needs to the appropriate manager.
- Follow established procedures for receiving, storing, and rotating food products.
- Maintain appropriate portion sizes and follow approved recipes to support consistent quality and cost control.

Teamwork and Resident Service

- Work cooperatively with Dietary Aides, other dietary staff, and members of the interdisciplinary care team.
- Contribute to a positive, respectful, and supportive working environment.
- Support resident choice, dignity, satisfaction, and quality of life through thoughtful meal preparation and service.
- Assist with the orientation and training of new employees when required.
- Respond appropriately to direction and supervision and seek clarification when necessary.
- Communicate effectively with team members to ensure meals are prepared and ready for scheduled service.

Professional Responsibilities

- Report to work as scheduled and be ready to begin duties at the start of the assigned shift and following breaks.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding residents, employees, organizational information, and facility operations.
- Follow organizational policies, procedures, safety requirements, and infection control practices.
- Participate in staff meetings, performance evaluations, and relevant training and continuing education as required.
- Identify opportunities for professional development and apply new knowledge and skills to daily work.




- Understand and follow emergency procedures, including fire safety and the organization's All Hazards Emergency Plan.
- Recognize the limits of personal knowledge and abilities and seek assistance or direction when required.
- Maintain a professional, respectful, and positive attitude when interacting with residents, families, visitors, and colleagues.
- Participate in organizational goals and quality improvement initiatives.
- Perform other related duties as assigned by the appropriate manager or designate.

Working Conditions and Scheduling

Gables Lodge operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The successful candidate must be available to work assigned shifts, which may include days, evenings, weekends, and holidays, in accordance with the applicable collective agreement.

Overtime may be required based on operational needs. Employees may also be required to respond to emergency staffing situations in accordance with established organizational procedures and applicable policies.

Qualifications and Skills

- Previous cooking experience, preferably in a healthcare, long-term care, institutional, or high-volume food service environment.
- Food Handler certification
- Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, safe food handling, and infection prevention and control practices.
- Ability to prepare meals according to established menus, recipes, portion standards, and special dietary requirements.
- Strong organizational, time-management, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a team.
- Demonstrated reliability, flexibility, professionalism, and a commitment to quality service.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities.
- A genuine commitment to resident-centred care, dignity, and quality of life.

Join Our Team!

At GEM, every meal is an opportunity to make someone's day better. If you are passionate about food, take pride in your work, and want to contribute to the well-being of residents in a long-term care setting, we encourage you to apply.

GEM Health Care Group is committed to an inclusive and welcoming workplace.

#INDAOJ

Job Type: Full time

Pay: $23.96-$26.19 per hour

Benefits:

- On-site parking

Licence/Certification:

- Food Handler Certification (required)

Work Location: In person

📌 Cook (Amherst)
🏢 GEM Health Care Group
📍 Amherst