Culinary staff in the continuing care and retirement living sector play a vital role in ensuring that older adults receive nutritious and delicious meals. They work in kitchens and dining areas, preparing and serving meals to residents and guests.
Culinary staff take into consideration the dietary needs and preferences of each individual, such as those who require modified diets or have food allergies. They work closely with dietitians and healthcare professionals to create menus that are balanced, healthy, and tasty.
In addition to preparing meals, culinary staff also ensure that dining areas are clean and welcoming, and that residents are comfortable and happy. They may also plan and organize special events, such as holiday meals and themed dinners, to create a sense of community and fun for residents.
Through their work, culinary staff contribute to the overall health and well-being of older adults, and help to create a positive and enjoyable living environment. They play an important role in ensuring that seniors receive the nutrition they need to stay healthy and active, and in promoting social interaction and a sense of community among residents.
Quick facts about Culinary Arts positions
- Education: Typically completion of Grade 10 is required for dietary aide and food service positions. A degree in culinary arts or a Red Seal certification may be required for Cook and Chef positions.
- Certifications: May require FOODSAFE Level 1 & 2, Serving it Right, and other food handling certificates.
- Pay: $-$$$
Many cook, food service and dietary positions start between $21 – $24 per hour, with pay increasing with experience. - Job Opportunities: ★★★★★
BC’s Labour Market Outlook projects over 28,000 job openings for these occupations, including in seniors care, in the next 10 years.
- Sample job description: Coming soon.
Culinary Arts Job Opportunities
Chefs and Cooks in the continuing care and retirement living sector are responsible for the preparation and delivery of food for residents and their families. They oversee daily meal preparation, often for specialized and prescribed diets, and ensure effective operation of the kitchen, and that the food quality and presentation meet an organization’s standards.
Dietary Aides are responsible for preparing and serving meals to seniors, and ensuring their nutritional needs are met. This can involve tasks like setting tables, serving food, and cleaning up after meals. This role requires a commitment to person-centred care, and an understanding of basic food preparation and cooking techniques.
Food service workers are responsible for the daily preparation and delivery of meals, inventory control, maintaining a sanitary workplace for staff, and maintaining safe and clean dining facilities for residents and their families.
Helpful Resources
There are many helpful resources to start your career in culinary arts in B.C.’s seniors care sector. Here are just a few:
- Facilitating Access to Skilled Talent (FAST)
FAST Seniors Care is a free program that helps immigrants to launch their careers in Canada’s seniors’ care sector through self-paced, online employment preparation developed in partnership with Canadian employers. Take a FAST occupational assessment today to learn how your skills match up with careers in seniors care.
Frequently Asked Questions
*coming soon*