Presbyterian Homes & Services
Chanhassen, Minnesota
Min Max Overview Presbyterian Homes & Services - SummerWood of Chanhassen seeking a Nutrition & Culinary Services Director to join our team. The Nutrition & Culinary Services Director is responsible for planning, organizing, developing, evaluating and effectively directing the Nutrition & Culinary Services staff and program in order to ensure the delivery of high quality customer meals and dining services consistent with regulations and established best practices. This is a fulltime exempt benefit eligible position. Presbyterian Homes offers comparable pay and benefits including health and Dental insurance, company matched retirement plan, Education Assistance, and opportunities for career growth within the organization, among other great benefits. REPORTING STRUCTURE: The Nutrition & Culinary Services Director reports to the Site Leader. The Nutrition & Culinary Services Director directly supervises Nutrition & Culinary Services staff including Cooks/Chefs, Servers and Lead Servers. The Nutrition & Culinary Services Director oversees the use of contracted services for the Nutrition & Culinary Services program. ABOUT THIS COMMUNITY SummerWood of Chanhassen525 Lake DriveChanhassen, MN 55317Located across from the renowned Chanhassen Dinner Theater, with convenient access to Highways 5 and 101, SummerWood of Chanhassen brings city life irresistibly close to home. With outdoor walking trails and a pedestrian-friendly retail area, it's a setting you'll find ideal.As an employee you can take advantage of a variety of amenities such as:- Southwest Transit line access- Off-street parking- Discounted employee meals- Free fitness centerThis community offers the following care options: Assisted Living, Assisted Living Memory Care Responsibilities The Nutrition & Culinary Services Director has responsibility as a member of the site leadership team to participate in the planning and implementation of strategies and programming that assure high quality customer meals while achieving short and long-term operational goals and objectives for the site. Customer Meals Oversee the meal preparation and service based on established menus, regulations, established policies, procedures and best practices. Assist with the meal process as necessary. Regularly solicit customer feedback and incorporate solutions regarding the quality and satisfaction with meals served into meal and service planning. Develop menus and recipes that are attractive, nutritious and palatable with a focus on customer requests/satisfaction. Maintain and monitor accurate meal documentation records per established procedures. Establish and maintain effective communication systems with all customers. Customer Dining Create a positive dining experience for customers that promotes their independence, choice and overall well being. Encourage resident participation in the dining program, and meal activities. Oversee the entire dining process for all customers. Nutrition Program - Care Centers Oversee the meal preparation and service based on established menus, regulations, established policies, procedures and best practices. Assist with the meal process as necessary. Regularly solicit customer feedback and incorporate solutions regarding the quality and satisfaction with meals served into meal and service planning. Develop menus and recipes that are attractive, nutritious and palatable with a focus on customer requests/satisfaction. Maintain and monitor accurate meal documentation records per established procedures. Establish and maintain effective communication systems with all customers. Qualifications Care Center: Enrolled in or a graduate of a dietary manager course with current state certification. Housing and Assisted Living: Current Food Safety Certification. Three to five (3 - 5) years' leadership experience in food service. Demonstrated competencies in food service management and operations, quality management, staff development, cooking, clinical nutrition for the elderly, and community outreach. Must have flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with residents, coworkers, family members, visitors, and the general public. Demonstrated compatibility with PHS's mission and operating philosophies. Demonstrated ability to read, write, speak and understand the English language to communicate with all customers. About PHS Presbyterian Homes & Services (PHS), based in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a non-profit, faith-based organization providing a broad array of high quality housing choices, and care and service options for older adults. Over 7,100 employees serve more than 26,000 older adults through 59 PHS-affiliated senior living communities in Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin, and through Optage home and community services. PHS is also co-owner of Genevive, the largest geriatric primary care practice in Minnesota, providing comprehensive care for over 15,000 older adults. Established in 1955, PHS has earned the reputation as an innovative leader dedicated to promoting independence, purposeful living, and overall well-being for those they serve. Today, PHS is one of the largest nonprofit providers of senior housing and services in the nation. We believe employees are the most important resource in our ministry and we are committed to an environment where employees are valued and empowered to make a difference. With a strong commitment to grow our employees from within, the development opportunities with us are virtually unlimited. We offer competitive wages, opportunities for advancement, ongoing training, and incredible benefits like education assistance and nursing loan forgiveness. If you have a desire to honor God by enriching the lives and touching the hearts of older adults, consider answering the call and join our team. PHS is an EEO/AA employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance.
Apr 21, 2024
Full time
Min Max Overview Presbyterian Homes & Services - SummerWood of Chanhassen seeking a Nutrition & Culinary Services Director to join our team. The Nutrition & Culinary Services Director is responsible for planning, organizing, developing, evaluating and effectively directing the Nutrition & Culinary Services staff and program in order to ensure the delivery of high quality customer meals and dining services consistent with regulations and established best practices. This is a fulltime exempt benefit eligible position. Presbyterian Homes offers comparable pay and benefits including health and Dental insurance, company matched retirement plan, Education Assistance, and opportunities for career growth within the organization, among other great benefits. REPORTING STRUCTURE: The Nutrition & Culinary Services Director reports to the Site Leader. The Nutrition & Culinary Services Director directly supervises Nutrition & Culinary Services staff including Cooks/Chefs, Servers and Lead Servers. The Nutrition & Culinary Services Director oversees the use of contracted services for the Nutrition & Culinary Services program. ABOUT THIS COMMUNITY SummerWood of Chanhassen525 Lake DriveChanhassen, MN 55317Located across from the renowned Chanhassen Dinner Theater, with convenient access to Highways 5 and 101, SummerWood of Chanhassen brings city life irresistibly close to home. With outdoor walking trails and a pedestrian-friendly retail area, it's a setting you'll find ideal.As an employee you can take advantage of a variety of amenities such as:- Southwest Transit line access- Off-street parking- Discounted employee meals- Free fitness centerThis community offers the following care options: Assisted Living, Assisted Living Memory Care Responsibilities The Nutrition & Culinary Services Director has responsibility as a member of the site leadership team to participate in the planning and implementation of strategies and programming that assure high quality customer meals while achieving short and long-term operational goals and objectives for the site. Customer Meals Oversee the meal preparation and service based on established menus, regulations, established policies, procedures and best practices. Assist with the meal process as necessary. Regularly solicit customer feedback and incorporate solutions regarding the quality and satisfaction with meals served into meal and service planning. Develop menus and recipes that are attractive, nutritious and palatable with a focus on customer requests/satisfaction. Maintain and monitor accurate meal documentation records per established procedures. Establish and maintain effective communication systems with all customers. Customer Dining Create a positive dining experience for customers that promotes their independence, choice and overall well being. Encourage resident participation in the dining program, and meal activities. Oversee the entire dining process for all customers. Nutrition Program - Care Centers Oversee the meal preparation and service based on established menus, regulations, established policies, procedures and best practices. Assist with the meal process as necessary. Regularly solicit customer feedback and incorporate solutions regarding the quality and satisfaction with meals served into meal and service planning. Develop menus and recipes that are attractive, nutritious and palatable with a focus on customer requests/satisfaction. Maintain and monitor accurate meal documentation records per established procedures. Establish and maintain effective communication systems with all customers. Qualifications Care Center: Enrolled in or a graduate of a dietary manager course with current state certification. Housing and Assisted Living: Current Food Safety Certification. Three to five (3 - 5) years' leadership experience in food service. Demonstrated competencies in food service management and operations, quality management, staff development, cooking, clinical nutrition for the elderly, and community outreach. Must have flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with residents, coworkers, family members, visitors, and the general public. Demonstrated compatibility with PHS's mission and operating philosophies. Demonstrated ability to read, write, speak and understand the English language to communicate with all customers. About PHS Presbyterian Homes & Services (PHS), based in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a non-profit, faith-based organization providing a broad array of high quality housing choices, and care and service options for older adults. Over 7,100 employees serve more than 26,000 older adults through 59 PHS-affiliated senior living communities in Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin, and through Optage home and community services. PHS is also co-owner of Genevive, the largest geriatric primary care practice in Minnesota, providing comprehensive care for over 15,000 older adults. Established in 1955, PHS has earned the reputation as an innovative leader dedicated to promoting independence, purposeful living, and overall well-being for those they serve. Today, PHS is one of the largest nonprofit providers of senior housing and services in the nation. We believe employees are the most important resource in our ministry and we are committed to an environment where employees are valued and empowered to make a difference. With a strong commitment to grow our employees from within, the development opportunities with us are virtually unlimited. We offer competitive wages, opportunities for advancement, ongoing training, and incredible benefits like education assistance and nursing loan forgiveness. If you have a desire to honor God by enriching the lives and touching the hearts of older adults, consider answering the call and join our team. PHS is an EEO/AA employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance.
ARAMARK Refreshment Services, Inc.
Dearborn, Michigan
Job Description Do you love to cook? Are you passionate about food? As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes beyond food preparation - experimenting with different cuisines, flavors, and cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your passion, and pursue what matters by cooking with us! Job Responsibilities Essential functions and responsibilities of the position may vary by Aramark location based on client requirements and business needs. Cooks and prepare a variety of food according to production guidelines and standardized recipes Sets up workstation with all needed ingredients and equipment Prepares ingredients by measuring, weighing, mixing, chopping, trimming, and peeling food items Safely uses a variety of utensils including knives Operates equipment such as ovens, stoves, slicers, mixers, etc. Bakes, roasts, broils, steams, and uses a variety of cooking methods on meat, vegetables, and other foods Arranges, garnishes, and portions food according to established guidelines Properly stores food by adhering to food safety policies and procedures Cleans and sanitizes work areas, equipment, and utensils Maintains excellent customer service and positive demeanor towards guests, customers, clients, co-workers, etc. Adheres to Aramark safety policies and procedures including accurate food safety and sanitation Ensures security of company assets At Aramark, developing new skills and doing what it takes to get the job done make a positive impact for our employees and for our customers. In order to meet our commitments, job duties may change or new ones may be assigned without formal notice. Qualifications Experience as a cook or in a related role required Validated knowledge of the basic principles of food preparation, various cooking methods, and food safety regulations such as accurate food handling, sanitation, and storage Must be able to acquire food safety certification Demonstrate basic math and counting skills Demonstrates interpersonal communication skills, both written and verbal This role may have physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling and/or extended walking and standing. This role may also require uniforms and/or usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Education About Aramark Our Mission Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law. About Aramark The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food, facilities, and uniform services in 19 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Apr 17, 2024
Full time
Job Description Do you love to cook? Are you passionate about food? As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes beyond food preparation - experimenting with different cuisines, flavors, and cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your passion, and pursue what matters by cooking with us! Job Responsibilities Essential functions and responsibilities of the position may vary by Aramark location based on client requirements and business needs. Cooks and prepare a variety of food according to production guidelines and standardized recipes Sets up workstation with all needed ingredients and equipment Prepares ingredients by measuring, weighing, mixing, chopping, trimming, and peeling food items Safely uses a variety of utensils including knives Operates equipment such as ovens, stoves, slicers, mixers, etc. Bakes, roasts, broils, steams, and uses a variety of cooking methods on meat, vegetables, and other foods Arranges, garnishes, and portions food according to established guidelines Properly stores food by adhering to food safety policies and procedures Cleans and sanitizes work areas, equipment, and utensils Maintains excellent customer service and positive demeanor towards guests, customers, clients, co-workers, etc. Adheres to Aramark safety policies and procedures including accurate food safety and sanitation Ensures security of company assets At Aramark, developing new skills and doing what it takes to get the job done make a positive impact for our employees and for our customers. In order to meet our commitments, job duties may change or new ones may be assigned without formal notice. Qualifications Experience as a cook or in a related role required Validated knowledge of the basic principles of food preparation, various cooking methods, and food safety regulations such as accurate food handling, sanitation, and storage Must be able to acquire food safety certification Demonstrate basic math and counting skills Demonstrates interpersonal communication skills, both written and verbal This role may have physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling and/or extended walking and standing. This role may also require uniforms and/or usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Education About Aramark Our Mission Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law. About Aramark The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food, facilities, and uniform services in 19 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Job Description Do you love to cook? Are you passionate about food? As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes beyond food preparation - experimenting with different cuisines, flavors, and cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your passion, and pursue what matters by cooking with us! Job Responsibilities Essential functions and responsibilities of the position may vary by Aramark location based on client requirements and business needs. Cooks and prepare a variety of food according to production guidelines and standardized recipes Sets up workstation with all needed ingredients and equipment Prepares ingredients by measuring, weighing, mixing, chopping, trimming, and peeling food items Safely uses a variety of utensils including knives Operates equipment such as ovens, stoves, slicers, mixers, etc. Bakes, roasts, broils, steams, and uses a variety of cooking methods on meat, vegetables, and other foods Arranges, garnishes, and portions food according to established guidelines Properly stores food by adhering to food safety policies and procedures Cleans and sanitizes work areas, equipment, and utensils Maintains excellent customer service and positive demeanor towards guests, customers, clients, co-workers, etc. Adheres to Aramark safety policies and procedures including accurate food safety and sanitation Ensures security of company assets At Aramark, developing new skills and doing what it takes to get the job done make a positive impact for our employees and for our customers. In order to meet our commitments, job duties may change or new ones may be assigned without formal notice. Qualifications Experience as a cook or in a related role required Validated knowledge of the basic principles of food preparation, various cooking methods, and food safety regulations such as accurate food handling, sanitation, and storage Must be able to acquire food safety certification Demonstrate basic math and counting skills Demonstrates interpersonal communication skills, both written and verbal This role may have physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling and/or extended walking and standing. This role may also require uniforms and/or usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Education About Aramark Our Mission Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law. About Aramark The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food, facilities, and uniform services in 19 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Nearest Major Market: Dearborn Nearest Secondary Market: Detroit
Apr 17, 2024
Full time
Job Description Do you love to cook? Are you passionate about food? As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes beyond food preparation - experimenting with different cuisines, flavors, and cooking styles. At Aramark, we care about your health, so we have production guidelines and safety procedures in place to help you do what you love. Get ready to reach new heights, ignite your passion, and pursue what matters by cooking with us! Job Responsibilities Essential functions and responsibilities of the position may vary by Aramark location based on client requirements and business needs. Cooks and prepare a variety of food according to production guidelines and standardized recipes Sets up workstation with all needed ingredients and equipment Prepares ingredients by measuring, weighing, mixing, chopping, trimming, and peeling food items Safely uses a variety of utensils including knives Operates equipment such as ovens, stoves, slicers, mixers, etc. Bakes, roasts, broils, steams, and uses a variety of cooking methods on meat, vegetables, and other foods Arranges, garnishes, and portions food according to established guidelines Properly stores food by adhering to food safety policies and procedures Cleans and sanitizes work areas, equipment, and utensils Maintains excellent customer service and positive demeanor towards guests, customers, clients, co-workers, etc. Adheres to Aramark safety policies and procedures including accurate food safety and sanitation Ensures security of company assets At Aramark, developing new skills and doing what it takes to get the job done make a positive impact for our employees and for our customers. In order to meet our commitments, job duties may change or new ones may be assigned without formal notice. Qualifications Experience as a cook or in a related role required Validated knowledge of the basic principles of food preparation, various cooking methods, and food safety regulations such as accurate food handling, sanitation, and storage Must be able to acquire food safety certification Demonstrate basic math and counting skills Demonstrates interpersonal communication skills, both written and verbal This role may have physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling and/or extended walking and standing. This role may also require uniforms and/or usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Education About Aramark Our Mission Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law. About Aramark The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food, facilities, and uniform services in 19 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Nearest Major Market: Dearborn Nearest Secondary Market: Detroit
We are seeking enthusiastic Dietary Aides who are passionate and eager to grow alongside an outstanding team! The Fast Track Apprenticeship Program - Culinary Track gives employees an opportunity to grow within the position, and with each step, you'll gain more expertise, more earning potential, and college credit toward an Associate Degree! The end goal is for you to become a Certified Lead Cook! If you qualify, Trilogy will pay for your certification. What's in it for you: Free Apprenticeship program allowing Dietary Aides to advance their career with training and earn more money along the way Quarterly wage increases; receive an increase in pay every 90 days! Weekly Pay Student loan repayment, scholarships & tuition reimbursement to help you reach your career goals through continued education Bonuses for referrals, attendance, gas and more! Monthly Employee Celebrations Innovative Training Programs to advance your career What you'll be doing: Growing your career through our Culinary Apprenticeship Program Serving meals to the residents of our health care campus Assisting in daily and/or scheduled cleaning duties (to include work tables, meat blocks, refrigerators/freezers, sweeping and mopping floors as directed, performing dishwashing/cleaning procedures) Setting up the dining room, as well as meal trays, food carts, etc. as instructed Assisting our Cooks in preparing meals Join our growing company that has been recognizes as a Best Places to Work throughout our four states! We would love to welcome you to the Trilogy family! High School Diploma or equivalent preferred Experience working in a restaurant setting is a plus Ability to serve food and beverage in a fine dining setting US-MI-Howell Howard Careers close to home and your heart Since our founding in 1997, we've been making long-term care better for our residents and more rewarding for our team members. We're a Fortune Best Places to Work in Aging Services, a certified Great Place to Work, and one of Glassdoor's Top 100 Best Companies to Work. If you're looking for a place that embraces you for who you are, helps you achieve your full potential, and makes working hard feel less like hard work, then look no further than Trilogy. As one of Fortune's Best Places to Work in Aging Services, a certified Great Place to Work, and one of Glassdoor's Top 100 Best Companies to Work, Trilogy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to helping you reach your full potential and to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
Apr 03, 2024
Full time
We are seeking enthusiastic Dietary Aides who are passionate and eager to grow alongside an outstanding team! The Fast Track Apprenticeship Program - Culinary Track gives employees an opportunity to grow within the position, and with each step, you'll gain more expertise, more earning potential, and college credit toward an Associate Degree! The end goal is for you to become a Certified Lead Cook! If you qualify, Trilogy will pay for your certification. What's in it for you: Free Apprenticeship program allowing Dietary Aides to advance their career with training and earn more money along the way Quarterly wage increases; receive an increase in pay every 90 days! Weekly Pay Student loan repayment, scholarships & tuition reimbursement to help you reach your career goals through continued education Bonuses for referrals, attendance, gas and more! Monthly Employee Celebrations Innovative Training Programs to advance your career What you'll be doing: Growing your career through our Culinary Apprenticeship Program Serving meals to the residents of our health care campus Assisting in daily and/or scheduled cleaning duties (to include work tables, meat blocks, refrigerators/freezers, sweeping and mopping floors as directed, performing dishwashing/cleaning procedures) Setting up the dining room, as well as meal trays, food carts, etc. as instructed Assisting our Cooks in preparing meals Join our growing company that has been recognizes as a Best Places to Work throughout our four states! We would love to welcome you to the Trilogy family! High School Diploma or equivalent preferred Experience working in a restaurant setting is a plus Ability to serve food and beverage in a fine dining setting US-MI-Howell Howard Careers close to home and your heart Since our founding in 1997, we've been making long-term care better for our residents and more rewarding for our team members. We're a Fortune Best Places to Work in Aging Services, a certified Great Place to Work, and one of Glassdoor's Top 100 Best Companies to Work. If you're looking for a place that embraces you for who you are, helps you achieve your full potential, and makes working hard feel less like hard work, then look no further than Trilogy. As one of Fortune's Best Places to Work in Aging Services, a certified Great Place to Work, and one of Glassdoor's Top 100 Best Companies to Work, Trilogy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to helping you reach your full potential and to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.