Cook (Casual)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC) is one of the largest public research universities in the United States, providing an extensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Located in the vibrant, diverse metropolitan area of Minneapolis and St. Paul, UMTC is well-connected with notable health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts and nonprofit organizations, offering students and staff an enriching academic and professional environment. Recognized repeatedly by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture, Women, and State from 2022 through 2026, UMTC has established itself as a leader in fostering a supportive, inclusive, and engaging workplace. The university values diversity and inclusion, actively seeking employees from varied backgrounds to enrich its community. This commitment is reflected in its equal opportunity policies, ensuring fair access regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or other identities. The hiring process includes a background check, with a presumption of eligibility to work and fair consideration of candidates with past convictions.

This specific role is a casual, part-time kitchen position (not to exceed 14 hours per week) located onsite at the University of Minnesota's Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, MN. The Arboretum, spanning 1,200 acres across Chaska, Chanhassen, and Victoria, is a community outreach unit of the College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resource Sciences. As an accredited museum and member of the American Public Garden Association, the Arboretum is a prestigious public asset featuring gardens, natural areas, research, education, and events that engage visitors year-round. The kitchen position notably supports the Arboretum’s various dining outlets such as the Farm at the Arb and Eatery Cafe by preparing large quantity food products for university employees, students, and the public, adhering strictly to food safety and sanitation standards.

The role is a lead worker position requiring competence in operating various food production equipment, including both hot and cold food preparation tools. The individual will guide and organize a team to meet production standards and deadlines efficiently while ensuring high quality and presentation standards. Responsibilities include cooking in different kitchen areas depending on events, prepping food products, exercising judgment in menu presentation and food quality, maintaining recipe files, and completing food production reports. The position demands physical stamina such as standing for extended periods and occasional lifting up to 50 pounds. Weekend morning availability is preferred. Candidates must have a foundational knowledge of kitchen operations, safety, and food vocabulary, with experience in fast-paced, professional kitchen environments being essential.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for culinary professionals to contribute in a dynamic, educational setting that embraces sustainable, farm-fresh, plant-forward dining philosophies at Rootstock Cafe, the Arboretum's new cafe. Applicants can expect to work in an environment that supports vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free menu options to accommodate a wide variety of dietary preferences. The role not only bolsters practical culinary skills but also aligns with the Arboretum’s mission of education and community engagement through food service. By joining this team, employees become part of a larger mission focused on agricultural education, natural resource stewardship, and community well-being.