Cook (16) Ws- Ck03

**Division**:
Long Term Care Homes

**Important Notices & Amendments**:
As an employer of choice, Niagara Region offers competitive salaries and benefits, a defined benefit pension plan, a corporate wellness centre, access to the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP), mentorship and training programs, employee recognition programs, and more. In addition, the Region recognizes the value of having flexible work arrangements to support better work-life balance for our employees

**About Us**:
Serving a diverse urban and rural population of more than 475,000, Niagara Region is focused on building a strong and prosperous Niagara. Working collaboratively with 12 local area municipalities and numerous community partners, the Region delivers a range of high quality programs and services to support and advance the well-being of individuals, families and communities within its boundaries. Nestled between the great lakes of Erie and Ontario, the Niagara peninsula features some of Canada’s most fertile agricultural land, the majesty of Niagara Falls and communities that are rich in both history and recreational and cultural opportunities. Niagara boasts dynamic modern cities, Canada’s most developed wine industry, a temperate climate, extraordinary theatre, and some of Ontario’s most breathtaking countryside. An international destination with easy access to its binational U.S. neighbour New York State, Niagara attracts over 14 million visitors annually, as well as a steady stream of new residents and businesses.

Please note that effective February 12, 2023 mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations are no longer required as per the Niagara Region’s amended COVID-19 Vaccination Policy. As a result, you will not be required to submit verification of your vaccination status before starting employment with the Niagara Region. However, the Niagara Region continues to reserve the right to reintroduce vaccination requirements in the future if necessary to respond to changing public health advice and\or government direction. The Niagara Region continues to strongly encourage everyone to remain up-to-date with vaccinations.

**JOB SUMMARY**:
Provides resident-focused service in the Long Term Care Home by preparing, cooking and portioning resident meals and snacks in compliance with therapeutic diet needs and restrictions. With the use of recipes and menus, performs general and specialized cooking at the Long Term Care Home, maintaining high standards of quality production that meets the nutritional needs of the residents under the direction of the Food Services Manager. Works according to and maintains all applicable standards, acts and governing bodies.

**QUALIFICATIONS**:
EDUCATION
- Completion Grade 12 or equivalent, plus completion of an Institutional Cook (415D) or Cook (415A) certification program, Chef Training, Culinary Management, Food & Nutrition Management diploma, degree or certificate, or, an equivalent combination of education and/or experience as permitted by the applicable legislation/Act;
- For Cooks, Red Seal certification is an asset but not required
- A current Safe Food Handling Certificate as required by legislation/Act
- Additional related training or education such as gerontology, nutrition, sanitation, etc. are assets

KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE
- Minimum of 1 month of current direct institutional cooking experience
- Good knowledge of kitchen operating procedures, food storage and safekeeping
- Should have knowledge of safety and fire regulation awareness
- Must have a clear understanding of relevant policies, procedures, legislation, regulations, guidelines and best practices applicable to the long-term care and food service sectors, such as Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating, Fixing Long Term Care Act, Public Health regulations, etc.
- Experience providing functional guidance, training and/or overseeing the work of others is an asset
- Must possess the ability to read, write, and communicate in English

SKILLS
- Ability to work co-operatively with staff and residents
- High standards of cleanliness, quality and order
- Well organized and have acceptable pace to meet time schedules
- Strong attention to detail
- Must be able to exercise judgement and initiative
- Willingness to train and upgrade knowledge/skills
- Ability to provide functional guidance to other kitchen staff

SPECIAL CONDITIONS
- In accordance with the Corporate Policy and applicable Legislation/Regulation(s), the position requires the incumbent to undergo a Police Record Check and submit a satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Check, as well as complete any subsequent declaration or check as required by legislation/Act, regulation, and/or policy
- Compliance with any requirements, including immunization and screening measures, of the infection prevention and control program as required by applicable legislation/Act, regulation or policy; some measures are only recommendations (not requirements)
- Staff are required to be screened for Tu