Food Service Assistant, Long Term Care (LTC) - Rapid City, SD

Role Overview

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of seniors? Do you thrive in a team-oriented environment where you can contribute to a fulfilling dining experience for residents? If so, a career as a Food Service Assistant in Long Term Care (LTC) at Sanford Health in Rapid City, SD, might be the perfect fit for you. This role is crucial in ensuring our residents receive nutritious, delicious, and safe meals while providing a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

As a Food Service Assistant, you will be an integral part of the dietary team, responsible for preparing and serving meals, maintaining a clean and sanitary environment, and interacting with residents to ensure their needs and preferences are met. You'll work closely with other food service staff, nurses, and caregivers to create a holistic approach to resident care.

A Day in the Life

Here's a glimpse into what a typical day might look like:

• 6:00 AM: Arrive for your shift. Review the daily menu and any special dietary requests or restrictions for residents.
• 6:15 AM: Assist with preparing breakfast items, such as toast, cereal, and cooked eggs.
• 7:00 AM: Set up the dining room, ensuring tables are clean and properly set with utensils and condiments.
• 7:30 AM: Serve breakfast to residents, assisting those who need help with feeding.
• 8:30 AM: Clear tables and clean the dining room after breakfast service.
• 9:00 AM: Wash dishes, pots, and pans, and sanitize kitchen equipment and work surfaces.
• 9:30 AM: Restock food areas with necessary supplies for lunch preparation.
• 10:00 AM: Assist with preparing lunch items, such as salads, sandwiches, and soups.
• 11:00 AM: Monitor and record food temperatures to ensure food safety standards are met.
• 11:30 AM: Set up the dining room for lunch service.
• 12:00 PM: Serve lunch to residents, paying attention to individual needs and preferences.
• 1:00 PM: Assist residents who need help with feeding.
• 1:30 PM: Clear tables and clean the dining room after lunch service.
• 2:00 PM: Wash dishes, pots, and pans, and sanitize kitchen equipment and work surfaces.
• 2:30 PM: Prepare snacks and supplements for residents as needed.
• 3:00 PM: Clean and organize the kitchen area.
• 3:30 PM: Document food and fluid intakes for residents as assigned.
• 4:00 PM: Communicate any concerns or observations about residents' conditions to the nursing staff.

Why Rapid City, South Dakota?

Rapid City, South Dakota, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and community spirit. Nestled in the Black Hills, residents enjoy easy access to stunning natural landscapes, including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. The city boasts a vibrant downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With a lower cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States, Rapid City provides an affordable and fulfilling lifestyle. The friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community make it an ideal place to live and work.

Career Path

Sanford Health is committed to employee growth and development. The Food Service Assistant role can serve as a stepping stone to various career paths within the organization. With experience and additional training, you could advance to positions such as:

• Certified Dietary Manager: Oversee the dietary operations of a long-term care facility.
• Registered Dietitian: Provide medical nutrition therapy to patients with various health conditions.
• Food Service Supervisor: Manage and coordinate the activities of food service staff.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is estimated to be between $27,000 and $38,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition to competitive pay, Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Paid holidays
• Retirement plan (401k or similar)
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts
• Wellness programs
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Health savings accounts (HSA)

Sanford Culture

Sanford Health is dedicated to the work of health and healing. We are committed to providing high-quality care to our patients and residents while fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment for our employees. We value teamwork, respect, integrity, and compassion. Joining Sanford Health means becoming part of a family that is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.

How to Apply

If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit your application online through the Sanford Health careers website. Be sure to include a resume and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible, as positions may fill quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the minimum age requirements for this position?

   The minimum age requirement is 16 years old.

2. What experience is required for this role?

   Previous experience in food service is preferred but not always required. We are willing to train individuals who are passionate about providing excellent service and care to our residents.

3. What are the physical requirements of the job?

   This position requires the ability to be on your feet for the majority of the day and walk far distances. You should also be able to lift and carry trays of food and equipment.

4. What kind of training will I receive?

   You will receive comprehensive training on food safety, sanitation, resident care, and the use of kitchen equipment. You will also be required to complete all necessary in-person and electronic trainings as assigned.

5. What opportunities are there for advancement?

   Sanford Health offers numerous opportunities for career advancement. With experience and additional training, you could advance to positions such as Certified Dietary Manager, Registered Dietitian, or Food Service Supervisor.

6. What is the work environment like?

   The work environment is fast-paced and team-oriented. You will be working closely with other food service staff, nurses, and caregivers to provide the best possible care to our residents.

7. What is the dress code?

   The dress code typically involves wearing a uniform, including a hairnet and closed-toe shoes.

8. What are the infection control procedures?

   We follow strict infection control policies and procedures, including handwashing, sanitizing equipment, and wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary.

9. How do I request time off?

   You can request time off through our online scheduling system, following the guidelines outlined in the employee handbook.

10. Who do I contact if I have questions about my job duties or responsibilities?

    You can contact your supervisor or any member of the management team for assistance with your job duties or responsibilities.