Cook Assistant

UCLA Housing & Hospitality Services (H&HS) is a distinguished division of the University of California, Los Angeles, dedicated to delivering exceptional housing, dining, and hospitality experiences to the campus community, including student residents, faculty, staff, and visitors. As a key provider of these essential services, UCLA H&HS exemplifies commitment to quality, professionalism, and the enhancement of campus life. With over 2,600 team members, the department prides itself on fostering a welcoming atmosphere underscored by its motto "Hospitality First!" which emphasizes warmth, graciousness, and interpersonal connection as foundational to its service philosophy.

Working at UCLA H&HS means being part of a supportive and dynamic environment that values professional growth and personal development alongside competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages. Employees enjoy opportunities to expand their skills and careers through continuous training and development initiatives, contributing to a fulfilling and rewarding workplace experience.

The role of Cook Assistant at UCLA H&HS is critical to maintaining high standards in food preparation and kitchen operations. This position supports the seamless functioning of dining services by assisting in the preparation and cooking of a variety of meals, ensuring all food items meet quality and safety standards. The role requires working with a range of kitchen equipment including mixers, ovens, grills, and fryers, and necessitates precise measurement and preparation of ingredients following established recipes and culinary procedures.

Cook Assistants are expected to exhibit excellent skills in sanitation and safety protocols relevant to food production, storage, and service, ensuring compliance with all health regulations. Time management and organizational abilities are essential to effectively plan and execute daily production tasks within a fast-paced dining environment. Furthermore, this role involves leadership responsibilities, such as guiding small teams of food service workers to accomplish their duties efficiently and collaboratively.

Candidates will need robust interpersonal skills to interact positively with guests and colleagues, integrating communication techniques like active listening and problem-solving. Attention to detail in maintaining temperature logs, production records, and other paperwork is vital for operational accuracy and accountability.

Employment in this role entails varying work hours, including nights and weekends, requiring flexibility and dedication. The position is union-covered under SX-Service, and continued employment is contingent upon successful completion of background checks, physical examinations, and reading assessments. Overall, the Cook Assistant role at UCLA H&HS offers meaningful engagement within a respected institutional setting where hospitality excellence underpins every task, creating a nourishing and inviting dining experience for the UCLA community.