Cook / Direct Support Professional

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop, prepare, and serve nutritious, balanced meals that meet the dietary needs and preferences of individuals served, in accordance with OPWDD, ICF, DOH, CMS, and HCBS Waiver requirements.
• Ensure all meals meet required nutritional standards, including appropriate portions from the four food groups, and are consistent with ordered therapeutic or medically prescribed diets.
• Prepare meals in a manner that promotes health, safety, dignity, and individual choice, consistent with person‑centered planning principles.

• Practice proper sanitation, food handling, food storage, and temperature control in compliance with DOH Food requirements, OPWDD sanitation regulations, and CMS infection prevention standards.
• Ensure the kitchen, dining areas, appliances, and food preparation surfaces are maintained in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition at all times.
• Ensure all eating and cooking utensils, cookware, and equipment are cleaned, sanitized, and properly stored.
• Maintain compliance with universal precautions, infection control protocols, and safe food storage guidelines, including prevention of cross‑contamination.

• Collaborate with the Residence Manager, Program Director, and interdisciplinary team (IDT) in the development of grocery lists, menus, and meal planning.
• Post weekly menus in a visible area, ensuring menus receive appropriate administrative approval.
• Ensure alternative meals are available and documented for individuals with food allergies, intolerances, religious restrictions, cultural preferences, or special dietary needs.
• Provide and display educational materials related to nutrition, food groups, and healthy eating practices as appropriate.

• Order and maintain adequate food, supplies, and equipment to ensure meals are prepared and served as scheduled.
• Participate in scheduled meetings related to food services, menus, nutrition, and meal preparation, as required.
• Attend residence events and activities when requested, supporting community inclusion and quality of life initiatives.
• Maintain assigned dress code, including required personal protective equipment (PPE) and food‑service attire in accordance with sanitation standards.
• Perform all additional duties as assigned to support the health, safety, and well‑being of individuals served.

• Work collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team in the delivery of services.
• Promote and support an environment consistent with Positive Behavior Support plans & principles.
• Encourage pro‑social behaviors and respectful interactions between individuals and staff.
• Support and participate in behavioral support plans as directed and within scope of role.
• Assist with daily care and cleanliness of individuals, as needed and appropriate, while maintaining dignity and respect.

• Attend and participate in mandatory in-service trainings, staff meetings, and professional development seminars as required by OPWDD, CMS, and agency policy.
• Maintain compliance with all agency policies, OPWDD regulations, HCBS Waiver requirements, Justice Center standards, and CMS conditions of participation.
• All duties and responsibilities as requested by program administration.
• Provide Direct Support Professional coverage as deemed necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• New York State Driver’s License required.
• Obtain and Maintain Food Handling certification.
• Lift up to 25-50 Pounds.
• Stand on your feet for several hours.
• High School Diploma and experience in food service.
• Must be able to read and write English.
• Acceptable clearance checks for State Central Register, Driver license and fingerprinting as required by the program.
• Compliance with health regulations of PPD.
• Ability to cook for large number of people.
• Minimum of one-year professional experience.
• Obtain and Maintain SCIP-R and First Aid CPR & AED training.