Cook
Company : Post Acute Partners
Location : Colchester, VT, 05446
Job Type : Full Time, Part Time
Date Posted : 15 January 2026
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
In Colchester, VT, the demand for cooks remains steady, with local eateries and care facilities frequently recruiting. Applicants should anticipate a focus on food safety knowledge and experience handling various dietary needs, reflecting the community's emphasis on quality dining experiences.
Colchester’s moderate cost of living means cook salaries typically range between $19 and $25 per hour, aligning with regional standards. This balance ensures wages remain competitive while accommodating local economic conditions and living expenses.
While prep cooks focus on ingredient preparation and basic kitchen tasks, skilled cooks manage full cooking processes, menu adherence, and food quality control. Mastery in these areas often leads to higher pay and more advanced responsibilities.
Starting as a line cook, many progress to roles such as sous chef or kitchen manager by developing leadership, recipe mastery, and kitchen safety expertise. Continuous learning and experience in various cooking styles greatly enhance career advancement.
Restaurant cooks handle high-volume, fast-paced meal preparation following strict menus, while personal cooks tailor meals to individual preferences and dietary restrictions, often working in private homes or small settings.
At Post Acute Partners, cooks contribute by preparing nutritious meals that enhance resident well-being, supporting a compassionate environment. This role requires attention to dietary needs and collaboration within a healthcare-focused culinary team.
Cooks at Post Acute Partners enjoy weekly pay schedules, gas stipends, shift differentials, and tuition assistance for nursing advancement, blending culinary work with supportive employee-focused perks uncommon in typical restaurant settings.
Cooks typically earn between $19.81 and $24.64 per hour at Post Acute Partners, with experienced candidates reaching the higher end. The pay scale reflects the balance of skill, responsibility, and regional wage standards.
Certifications in food safety and sanitation, such as ServSafe, are highly valued in eldercare kitchens in Colchester. These credentials ensure adherence to strict hygiene and dietary standards essential for resident health.
Colchester maintains a consistent need for cooks across healthcare and hospitality sectors. Entry-level candidates with basic experience and hygiene awareness find opportunities accessible, especially in facilities prioritizing resident care.