Dietary Aide

JOB SUMMARY
- To provide assistance in all dietary functions as directed, in accordance with current Federal, State, and local standards, guidelines and regulations, and facility policies.

QUALIFICATIONS:

- High school education or equivalent.
- One (1) year dietary experience in a hospital, skilled nursing facility, or other related medical facility preferred (but not necessary).
- Must be able to follow oral and written instructions.
- Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language in an understandable manner.
- Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with residents, family members, visitors, personnel, government agencies/personnel and the general public.
- Must possess the ability and willingness to work harmoniously with other personnel.
- Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition, and enthusiasm.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

- Must be able to move intermittently throughout the workday.
- Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position.
- Must possess sight/hearing senses or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately so that the requirements of this position can be fully met.
- Must function independently, have flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with the resident, personnel, and support agencies.
- Must be in good general health and demonstrate emotional stability.
- Must be able to relate to and work with ill, disabled, emotionally upset, and at times hostile people within the facility.
- May be required to lift, push, pull, and move equipment, supplies, etc., in excess of fifty (50) pounds throughout the workday.
- Must be able to taste and smell food to determine quality and palatability.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Assure that all Dietary procedures are followed in accordance with established policies.
- Work with the supervisor/designee as necessary to implement procedures and recommended changes as required.
- Maintain the care and use of supplies, equipment, and appearance of work areas in a clean, sanitary, and orderly fashion.
- Recommend to the supervisor the equipment and supply needs of the department.
- Review menu extensions prior to preparation of foods.
- Assist in preparation and serve meals per schedule.
- Return clean utensils to proper storage areas.
- Wash and clean dishes and utensils as directed.
- Carry out garbage and keep work areas clean, dry, and free of hazardous equipment, supplies, etc.
- Assist in arranging diet cards, serving meals, and loading trays on cart.
- Deliver food carts to designated areas.
- Remove food trays/carts from dining rooms and take to dish washing area.
- Prepare and deliver snacks as instructed.
- Prepare and serve foods that are palatable and appetizing in appearance.
- Serve food in accordance with established portion control procedures.
- Prepare food for therapeutic diets in accordance with planned menu extensions. (As appropriate).
- Prepare food in accordance with standardized recipes and special diet orders.
- Prepare food in accordance with sanitary regulations.
- Report all accidents/incidents to the supervisor.
- Report all hazardous conditions/equipment to the supervisor immediately.
- Assists in maintaining all food and supply storage areas in a clean and orderly manner at all times.
- Dispose of food and waste in accordance with established policies.
- Assists in receiving and storing of incoming food, supplies, etc. as necessary.
- Attend staff meetings, and in-services etc. as scheduled.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.