Cook

Cook

Location: Pawnee Nation Behavioral Health – Pawnee, Oklahoma

Status: Full-Time or Part-Time | Non-Exempt
Reports To: Culinary Director

Make a Difference in Recovery!

At Pawnee Nation Behavioral Health, we believe that healing happens through compassionate care, meaningful connections, and meeting each individual's basic needs—including nutritious, well-prepared meals. We are seeking a Cook to oversee the daily operation of our kitchen while preparing meals that support the health and recovery of our patients.

If you enjoy cooking, creating a welcoming dining experience, and being part of a mission-driven team, we'd love to meet you.

Position Summary

The Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment. Working under the direction of the Culinary Director, this position helps ensure high-quality meal service, maintains food safety standards, manages inventory, and supports the dietary needs of patients in a recovery-focused setting.

The Dining Coordinator plays an important role in creating a positive recovery experience by providing quality meals in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve nutritious breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks in accordance with approved menus and dietary guidelines.
• Coordinate daily kitchen operations and meal service.
• Plan menus in collaboration with the Culinary Director and any consulting dietitian or nutrition resources.
• Order food, beverages, and kitchen supplies while maintaining appropriate inventory levels.
• Monitor food costs and minimize waste.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, infection control, and applicable regulatory standards.
• Maintain temperature logs for food, refrigerators, freezers, and dishwashing equipment.
• Clean and sanitize kitchen equipment, workstations, dining areas, and storage spaces.
• Properly store food and rotate inventory using First In, First Out (FIFO) practices.
• Accommodate physician-ordered and special dietary needs.
• Assist with receiving, organizing, and storing deliveries.
• Maintain accurate food service documentation as required.
• Observe patients during meal service and communicate concerns to the clinical team when appropriate.
• Promote a welcoming, respectful dining environment.
• Assist with special events and facility activities as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Ability to read recipes, menus, and production schedules.

Preferred

• One (1) year of experience in food service, healthcare, hospitality, or institutional cooking.
• ServeSafe Food Handler or Food Manager Certification (or ability to obtain after hire).
• Experience preparing meals for groups.
• Experience working in behavioral health, healthcare, or residential treatment settings.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Passion for serving others.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to cleanliness and organization.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Dependable and self-motivated.
• Positive attitude and strong teamwork skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing patient census and meal requirements.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently stand, walk, bend, and lift throughout the workday.
• Lift and carry up to 40 pounds regularly and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.
• Ability to tolerate heat, steam, and varying kitchen temperatures.

Benefits

Eligible full-time employees may receive a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Company-Paid Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability
• Long-Term Disability
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Employee Referral Program

Why Join Pawnee Nation Behavioral Health?

At Pawnee Nation Behavioral Health, every role contributes to recovery. As our Dining Coordinator, you'll do more than prepare meals—you'll help create an environment where individuals feel cared for, respected, and supported throughout their healing journey. Join a team committed to compassion, excellence, and making a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve.

Reasonable Accommodation

If you require accommodation to perform the essential functions of this position, please notify Human Resources.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Pawnee Nation Behavioral Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Native American/Tribal Preference applies in accordance with applicable law.