Culinary Services Associate

At Mahaska Health, the **Culinary Services Associate** supports the daily operations of the hospital's culinary services department by preparing, assembling, and delivering meals that meet patient dietary needs. This role helps maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming food service environment for patients, visitors, and staff. In a rural hospital setting, the Culinary Services Associate often works as part of a small, collaborative team where flexibility and reliability are essential. **Hours:** Full-time (10:15am - 6:30pm) ##### **Essential job responsibilities include but are not limited to** * Prepare, portion, and assemble patient meals according to prescribed diets, allergies, and texture modifications. * Complete tray set-up, salad/sandwich preparation, and procuring food from refrigerator, freezer or other storage location. * Set-up cafeteria serving line and salad bar. * Deliver and pick up trays to patient rooms and retrieve them in a timely, courteous manner. * Patient trays and snacks will be prepared in accordance with physician's diet order and the dietician-approved menu. Selective menus will also be prepared with the diet order and the menu. * Assist with food preparation tasks such as washing, chopping, mixing, and measuring ingredients. * Operate dishwashing equipment and maintain cleanliness of kitchen tools, workstations, and service areas. * Stock supplies in the kitchen and throughout hospital; store groceries in proper locations upon delivery. * All food items must be dated and labeled with the month and day. Food will be rotated on first-in-first-out rotation. This position is responsible to check food and supplies for spoilage. * Follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection‑control procedures in compliance with hospital and regulatory standards. * Maintain cleanliness and organization in food preparation and serving areas. * Assist with cafeteria service, including simple cooking, serving, and cashiering as needed. * Participate in cross‑training to support multiple functions within the culinary services department. * Adhere to health and safety regulations to ensure food safety and sanitation. ##### **Job Requirements include but are not limited to,** * High school diploma or equivalent * Prior food service experience is helpful, especially in healthcare or institutional settings, but not required. * Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, including diet orders and safety guidelines. * Knowledge of food safety standards and sanitation practices * Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment * Positive attitude and a genuine passion for serving others through food. * Strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with kitchen staff and healthcare teams. * Flexible hours to meet the needs of the department. Flexibility to work various shifts, including weekends and holidays.