Job Description

VRS Communities Society is looking for a

Temporary

Cook

to join our team at our site in Nanaimo BC, Lakeside Gardens Seniors Community. If you're looking for a position with great working hours and work-life balance, then this may be the position for you! Continue reading below for more information. We look forward to working with you!

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Executive Chef, the Cook is responsible for the preparation, storage, and service of menu items to the required standard. Using production checks and standardized recipes, the Cook is responsible for ensuring that proper meals are prepared and served on time to residents and guests. Ensures work areas are maintained in a safe and sanitary condition. The Cook ascertains all nutritional and special diet requirements are met and provides support to all departments. All duties are performed in the best interest of the residents and their families, and in accordance with VRS Communities Society vision, mission and values statements.

SCHEDULE:

Days: Saturday to Monday - 11:00am-7:00pm, Tuesday - 6:15am-2:15pm (30 hours/week)

Start Date: October 29, 2025

End Date: Tentatively January 29, 2026

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Cooks and prepares fresh food items accurately according to menu plans and standardized recipes.
2. Participates in the planning and preparation of food for special functions.
3. In the absence of the Food Service Manager/Head Cook, the Cook is responsible for the direction of department staff.
4. Regulates workflow to ensure food items are prepared according to schedule.
5. Checks and prepares weekly food orders as required.
6. Ensures dietary and cooking equipment and supplies are used and stored in a safe and efficient manner. Reports unsafe or faulty equipment to the designated supervisor.
7. Ensures dietary and cooking equipment and designated work areas are kept clean and tidy.

8.Assists the Executive Chef with menu planning and inventory control.

9. Shares responsibility, through in service and education, in safety standards and occupational health, hygiene, infection control and pest control and the Continuous Quality Improvement of the residence. Performs other staff development as required.
10. Maintains a current knowledge of and complies with all department policies and procedures.
11. Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Current Criminal Record Check Must be skilled at problem-solving, including being able to identify issues and resolve them in a timely manner. Must possess strong interpersonal skills. Must be able to prioritize and plan work activities to use time efficiently. Must be dependable, able to follow instructions, respond to management direction, and must be able to provide performance through management feedback. Must have the ability to establish and maintain good interpersonal relations by displaying tact, courtesy and patience with residents and staff. Proven ability to offer outstanding public relations with residents, potential clients, staff and all visitors A person with positive self-projection

EDUCATION/TRAINING:

Certified Chef from accredited school. WHMIS Certificate. Food Safe Level 1.

EXPERIENCE:

2 years experience working in volume food preparation for hospitality industry. 1 year experience in baking is considered an asset. Previous experience leading in the kitchen is considered an asset. Previous experience working with seniors is considered an asset.

PERSONAL:

Must be able to speak English fluently and communicate effectively both verbally and in the composition of written materials. Must pass a Criminal Record Check.
Job Type: Fixed term contract
Contract length: 12 weeks

Pay: $25.61 per hour

Expected hours: 30 per week

Education:

Secondary School (preferred)
Experience:

Cooking: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

Food Safety Certification (required) WHMIS Certification (preferred)
Work Location: In person