Pantry Cook
Company : Post Acute Partners
Location : Fairfax, VT, 05454
Job Type : Full Time, Part Time
Date Posted : 22 December 2025
Salary
$19.81 - $24.64 / hourOverview
CookPay Range: $18.72 – $21.97 per hour (earn more with experience)
NEW – Weekly Pay ScheduleGas Allowance Stipend for eligible full-time and part-time positions
At Elderwood, our Mission is People Caring for People. Our values of Integrity, Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence guide everything we do. We are committed to being the partner of choice not only for our residents and their families, but also for our dedicated employees.
Cook – Position Overview
Cooks at Elderwood play a key role in supporting the health and well-being of our residents by preparing nutritious, appealing meals in accordance with established recipes, menus, and dietary needs. Mealtimes are a highlight of each resident’s day, and our culinary team ensures a positive dining experience that promotes comfort, dignity, and enjoyment.
This position requires strong attention to detail, a commitment to cleanliness and safety, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
Why Work at Elderwood?
Competitive pay rates
Weekly pay schedule
Gas Allowance Stipend (for eligible full-time and part-time employees)
Shift differentials
Ferry reimbursement
Tuition Assistance Program for nursing career advancement
Robust Employee Referral Program
401(k) with employer match
Full suite of health benefits including Medical, Dental, and Vision
Paid Time Off
Responsibilities
Cook Responsibilities
Review menus and production sheets to determine appropriate food quantities for regular, mechanically altered, and special diets.
Prepare assigned food items following established recipes and standards.
Taste and assess food quality to ensure flavor, texture, and appearance meet expectations.
Maintain sanitation and safety standards during food preparation, cooking, and throughout the production line.
Ensure food is served and held at proper temperatures.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, equipment, and work areas.
Assist with food preparation and distribution as needed.
From
Up to
Qualifications
Cook Qualifications
Must be at least 18 years of age; high school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Previous food preparation experience required.
Ability to understand and coordinate food preparation activities.
Ability to perform cooking tasks safely, efficiently, and to quality standards.
Knowledge of food production processes and kitchen safety.
Strong personal cleanliness, hygiene, and professional presentation required.
Commitment to respectful, dignified treatment of residents.
This position requires regular interaction with residents, coworkers, visitors, and/or supervisors. In order to ensure a safe work environment for residents, coworkers, visitors, and/or supervisors of the Company, and to permit unfettered communication between the employee and those residents, coworkers, visitors, and supervisors, this position requires that the employee be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language at an intermediate or more advanced level.
EOE Statement
WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. Applicants and employees are considered for positions and are evaluated without regard to mental or physical disability, race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status or any other protected Federal, State/Province or Local status unrelated to the performance of the work involved.Related Jobs
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Frequently asked questions
Fairfax, VT, sees moderate demand for pantry cooks, especially in healthcare and eldercare facilities. Local employers like Post Acute Partners provide steady opportunities, reflecting the region's focus on quality food service for vulnerable populations. Job seekers often find openings through community job boards and healthcare networks.
Fairfax’s pantry cook roles are moderately competitive due to its smaller population but strong eldercare presence. Compared to larger Vermont cities, Fairfax offers fewer but more stable positions, often with benefits like weekly pay and stipends, making it attractive to candidates aiming for a balanced work environment.
Emphasizing food safety knowledge, ability to prepare diverse diets, and maintaining hygiene are crucial. Fairfax kitchens value cooks who can handle fast-paced environments while ensuring meal quality, especially for special dietary needs. Communication skills and teamwork also stand out in this role.
Daily duties include prepping ingredients, following recipes for various diets, monitoring food temperatures, and keeping the kitchen clean. Pantry cooks also assist in distributing meals and ensuring every dish meets quality standards, making their role vital to smooth dining operations.
At Post Acute Partners, pantry cooks support resident well-being with tailored nutrition plans, emphasizing dignity and comfort. Unlike some restaurant roles, this position integrates dietary adherence and resident interaction, reflecting a healthcare-focused culinary environment.
Beyond competitive wages, Post Acute Partners provides weekly pay schedules, gas allowances, tuition assistance for nursing career growth, and comprehensive health benefits. These perks underscore their commitment to employee development and work-life balance.
Pantry cooks in Fairfax typically earn between $19.81 and $24.64 hourly, which aligns well with Vermont’s standards for food service positions. This range reflects experience levels and includes additional compensation like shift differentials, making it attractive locally.
Absolutely, pantry cook experience builds foundational skills in nutrition and food safety, useful for roles like dietary cook or catering chef. In healthcare-focused companies, this role can be a stepping stone toward specialized culinary careers or nursing assistance positions.
While a high school diploma is preferred, certifications like ServSafe or food handler permits boost employability. Fairfax employers appreciate candidates familiar with dietary restrictions and kitchen safety protocols, enhancing their fit for eldercare food service roles.