Cook

Overview: As a Cook, you will be an integral part of our kitchen team, responsible for preparing and cooking high-quality food items according to standardized recipes and specifications. Your role is crucial in ensuring efficient kitchen operations and delivering delicious dishes that meet our guests' expectations. Attention to detail, culinary skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment are essential for success in this role.

Responsibilities:

1. Food Preparation and Cooking:
   • Prepare and cook menu items, including appetizers, entrees, and side dishes, following established recipes and portion sizes.
   • Ensure all food products are cooked to the correct temperature and meet quality standards for taste, texture, and appearance.
   • Coordinate cooking times with other kitchen staff to ensure timely and efficient service.
   • Monitor food inventory levels and assist with ordering and receiving supplies as needed.
2. Station Management:
   • Manage a specific station in the kitchen, such as grill, sauté, or fry, ensuring all required ingredients and equipment are readily available.
   • Maintain cleanliness and organization in your assigned station, including proper storage of ingredients, utensils, and cooking equipment.
   • Adhere to food safety and sanitation guidelines, including proper handling and storage of perishable items and cleaning procedures.
3. Teamwork and Communication:
   • Collaborate with other kitchen staff, including chefs, sous chefs, and prep cooks, to coordinate food preparation and service.
   • Communicate effectively with team members and management to ensure smooth kitchen operations and timely completion of orders.
   • Assist with training and mentoring new kitchen staff as needed, sharing culinary knowledge and best practices.
4. Quality Control:
   • Conduct regular quality checks on food items to ensure they meet our standards for taste, presentation, and portion size.
   • Address any issues or concerns with food quality or consistency promptly, escalating to management as necessary.
   • Assist with developing and refining recipes and cooking techniques to enhance the menu offerings and guest satisfaction.
   • Assist with regular cleaning of kitchen and restaurant area.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience as a cook or in a similar culinary role preferred.
• Culinary degree or certificate from an accredited institution is a plus.
• Strong understanding of food preparation techniques, cooking methods, and kitchen equipment.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and handle high-pressure situations.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods and work in a hot and fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Capacity to lift and carry heavy pots, pans, and trays.
• Dexterity to use kitchen tools and equipment effectively.

Benefits:

• Eligibility to enroll in the 401(k) after 6 months of service.
• 100% match at 3% contributions, 50% up to 5%.
• Paid Time Off – Sick & Vacation
• Holiday Pay
• Growth and development opportunities with us as a company, potentially at the same property or transferring to another one of our properties. Currently have properties in Wisconsin, South Dakota, North Dakota and Iowa.
• Travel discounts available through Choice Brand Hotels, Hilton, IHG and Marriott as well as at our independent properties.