Position Summary

The role of the Chef/Cook is the preparation of meal for the participants of the (Shrivings) Adult Day Centre. This important role supports the frail, aged or permanently disabled consumer group who are eligible under Commonwealth Home Support Program and Home and Community Care Young People funding guidelines. Whilst the majority of participants are residents of the Barkly Street high rise building, the Adult Day Centre is also used by other residents of the City of Moreland.

The Chef/Cook is a member of a team of five workers: the Team Leader and three Social Support Group (SSG) Workers are responsible for operation of the Adult Day Centre. This program also works closely with the Volunteer Program based on site, including the Volunteer Coordinator and appointed volunteers. The team also liaises with the Older Persons’ High Rise Support Program based at Barkly Street and any other support services in the provision of holistic support to consumers.

There are a diverse range of activities offered through the Adult Day Centre. These include craft activities, opportunities for celebration and social interaction, (gentle) physical activity, excursions and community participation. A core function is the provision of a cooked, nutritionally balanced quality meal each day prepared by the Cook. The SSG Workers help facilitate mealtimes. Emphasis is placed on activities which connect consumers to what is happening in the broader community through activities like footy tipping, celebrating Mothers/Fathers Day, Melbourne Cup Day, Grand Final Day, Show Day, Christmas and so on as well as marking personal celebrations such as birthdays. The Cook plays a role in celebrating these events through catering which reflects the respective occasion.

The Chef/Cook is required at all times to work within the policies and philosophical framework of Merri Outreach Support Service, the guidelines and standards of the funding body and to adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards in performing their duties and responsibilities associated with the position. It is imperative that the Chef/Cook meets all relevant local and state Health Department regulations with respect to storage, preparation and service of food and maintaining a commercial kitchen. The Chef/Cook will be required to have or undergo Safe Food Handling and Food Supervisors training.

MOSS is seeking a Chef/Cook who is vibrant, engaging, creative and will take on the kitchen as an extension of their own home. An ability to cook diverse, culturally specific meals will be an advantage. There are provisions for a kitchen garden program to be developed and we look upon a candidate who will bring energy and ideas to the program.

Agency catering upon requests for meetings and functions will also be required in the role.

For more information about the position please contact: Rita Lawrence 0417 507 458. Additional information about Merri Outreach Support Service can be found on the website: www.merri.org.au.

A position description is attached.