Cook (Full-time) - $15 to $21 per HOUR
Posted on October 24, 2025
Silver Oaks Behavioral Hospital (SOBH) is a distinguished provider specializing in mental health and substance abuse disorder treatment located in New Lenox, Illinois. Established as a leader in behavioral health services, SOBH operates a state-of-the-art 112-bed facility designed to offer a safe, comfortable, and therapeutic environment aimed at delivering exceptional care. The hospital integrates evidence-based therapy modalities that effectively reduce symptoms of mental illness while supporting sustainable, long-term patient recovery and well-being. SOBH prides itself on its collaborative community approach, combining the strengths of dedicated healthcare professionals and innovative treatment strategies to create a seamless continuum of care. This dynamic and inclusive setting fosters professional growth and offers challenging, rewarding opportunities for employees dedicated to making a positive impact in mental health support.
As part of this compassionate team, Silver Oaks Behavioral Hospital is recruiting a full-time Cook to join their dedicated food service department. Cooks at SOBH play a vital role in ensuring the nutritional needs of patients and staff are expertly met while maintaining strict adherence to quality, safety, and sanitation standards. The position offers an hourly wage between $15.00 and $21.00, reflecting the candidate's experience and skill level. This role is essential not only for meal preparation but also for supporting the hospital's mission of delivering exceptional, patient-centered care through nutritious, appealing meals that align with prescribed dietary guidelines.
The Cook will be responsible for opening the kitchen and organizing daily events to ensure smooth food service operations. Working closely with the Dietary Manager and Dietician, the Cook will follow menus and recipes, preparing meals and beverages according to the hospital’s cyclical menu and daily production sheets. Special attention is given to meal attractiveness and taste, which are crucial for patient satisfaction and nourishment. The Cook must accurately prepare food for modified diets, consulting with the Dietician as needed to meet specific dietary requirements.
Timeliness is a key aspect of this role, requiring meal preparation to strictly adhere to posted meal times. In addition to food preparation, the Cook will maintain cleanliness and organization within the kitchen and dining areas, following a posted cleaning schedule. Documentation and compliance with food temperature standards during cooking, serving, and storage are critical for safety and quality control. Proper maintenance of walk-in freezers and storerooms, including correct dating and labeling of food items, is also part of the responsibilities.
The Cook will lead and provide guidance to other food service staff during shifts, promoting efficiency and teamwork. The position demands a thorough understanding of portion control to prevent overproduction and maintain resourcefulness. Adherence to all sanitation and safety guidelines is mandatory to ensure a healthy environment for both patients and staff.
This Cook opportunity at Silver Oaks Behavioral Hospital offers more than just a job; it is a chance to contribute to a meaningful cause, supporting individuals on their journey toward improved mental health while enhancing your culinary and supervisory skills within a respected healthcare organization. The hospital values diversity, inclusion, and offers equal employment opportunities with accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Join SOBH and make a positive, lasting impact in a supportive, mission-driven environment that acknowledges and rewards your hard work and dedication.
- High school diploma
- minimum two years experience in quantity cooking
- trained in food service sanitation
- possess a food service food handler's permit
- ability to lift 50 pounds
- familiar with industrial kitchen equipment and utensils
- demonstrate leadership skills