Cook Job at WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital: Join Our Culinary Team

Role Overview

WVU Medicine is seeking a dedicated and skilled Cook to join our team at Princeton Community Hospital (PCH). In this role, you will be responsible for preparing high-quality food for patients, employees, and the public while adhering to strict sanitation and safety standards. Your contributions will directly impact the well-being and satisfaction of those we serve. You will play a vital role in upholding the standards of food quality, cleanliness, and efficiency that WVU Medicine is known for. The Cook position offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic culinary team within a leading healthcare organization.

A Day in the Life of a Cook at WVU Medicine

Here's a glimpse into a typical day for a Cook at Princeton Community Hospital:

• Early Morning (6:00 AM - 8:00 AM): Start the day by sanitizing the workstation and checking the daily menu. Review recipes and gather necessary ingredients from the coolers and storage areas, ensuring proper labeling and dating following the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Begin prepping breakfast items such as eggs, pancakes, and breakfast meats.
• Mid-Morning (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Focus on preparing lunch items, including entrees, sides, and soups. Follow standardized recipes and adjust portion sizes as needed. Monitor food temperatures and document them regularly. Set up the service line, ensuring plates are hot, food is attractively arranged, and dietary restrictions are followed.
• Lunch Service (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Serve customers during the peak lunch hours, providing friendly and efficient service. Address any customer complaints or concerns professionally, seeking management assistance when necessary. Monitor food levels and communicate with servers to prepare additional items as needed to prevent run-outs.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Clean and sanitize the work area, including equipment and utensils. Properly store and label any leftover food items, following Health Department guidelines for cooling and storage. Begin preparing ingredients for dinner service.
• Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Prepare dinner entrees, sides, and desserts. Set up the service line for dinner, ensuring that all items are presented attractively and at the correct temperature. Communicate with the evening shift cook about any special instructions or needs.

Why Princeton, West Virginia?

Princeton, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to outdoor recreation. Located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Princeton provides residents with stunning natural beauty and a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The cost of living in Princeton is affordable, making it an attractive place to live and work. The community is friendly and welcoming, with a strong sense of local pride. WVU Medicine's presence in Princeton contributes to the town's economic stability and provides residents with access to high-quality healthcare services. Enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with easy access to larger cities like Charleston and Roanoke.

Career Path for Cooks at WVU Medicine

WVU Medicine is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for growth and advancement. A Cook position can lead to various career paths within the organization. Cooks can advance to roles such as:

• Lead Cook: Oversee the work of other cooks and assist with menu planning and inventory management.
• Sous Chef: Assist the Executive Chef in managing the kitchen and preparing meals.
• Executive Chef: Manage the entire kitchen operation, including menu development, food preparation, and staff supervision.
• Food Service Manager: Oversee the food service operations for a specific department or location.

WVU Medicine also offers ongoing training and development programs to help employees enhance their skills and advance their careers.

Salary and Benefits

WVU Medicine offers a competitive salary and benefits package for the Cook position. The salary range for this role is estimated between $27,000 and $38,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition to salary, WVU Medicine provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Retirement Plan: 401k with employer match
• Life Insurance: Basic and supplemental life insurance options
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services
• Tuition Reimbursement: Assistance with continuing education and professional development
• Employee Discounts: Discounts on WVU Medicine services and products
• Wellness Programs: Programs to promote employee health and well-being

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for its employees. We value teamwork, respect, and excellence in everything we do. Our employees are our greatest asset, and we are committed to providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed. WVU Medicine is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.

How to Apply

To apply for the Cook position at Princeton Community Hospital, please click the "Apply" button located at the top of this page and complete the online application. Be sure to include your resume and cover letter, highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the minimum qualifications for this position?

   The minimum qualifications include a valid Food Service Worker Permit (FSWP) or the ability to obtain one. Preferred qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent and one year of experience as a cook.

2. What are the typical hours for this position?

   The typical hours for this position may vary depending on the needs of the department. Cooks may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

3. What is the dress code for this position?

   The dress code for this position typically includes a chef's coat, pants, and non-slip shoes. Specific details will be provided during the onboarding process.

4. What opportunities are there for advancement?

   WVU Medicine is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for growth and advancement. Cooks can advance to roles such as Lead Cook, Sous Chef, Executive Chef, and Food Service Manager.

5. What is the work environment like?

   The work environment is fast-paced and demanding, but also rewarding. Cooks work as part of a team to provide high-quality food to patients, employees, and the public.

6. Is there on-the-job training provided?

   Yes, WVU Medicine provides on-the-job training to help new employees learn the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their roles.

7. What safety measures are in place?

   WVU Medicine takes safety seriously and has implemented a variety of safety measures to protect employees, including regular safety training, proper equipment maintenance, and adherence to Health Department regulations.

8. What is the team dynamic like?

   The team dynamic is collaborative and supportive. Cooks work together to achieve common goals and are encouraged to share ideas and provide feedback.

9. How does WVU Medicine support employee well-being?

   WVU Medicine offers a variety of programs to support employee well-being, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness programs, and employee discounts.

10. What are the key skills required for this role?

    The key skills required for this role include food preparation, cooking, sanitation, food safety, customer service, recipe adherence, and teamwork.