University of Washington logo

COOK, Housing & Food Services Dining (Multiple Opportunities)

Job Overview

briefcase

Employment Type

Full-time
moneybag

Compensation

Salary
Range $45,288.00 - $54,732.00
diamond

Benefits

Health Insurance
Retirement Plan
Paid Time Off
Professional development opportunities
Employee wellness programs
Union membership
Paid holidays

Job Description

The University of Washington (UW) is a prestigious public research university known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and public service. Established in 1861, UW has grown into one of the premier institutions in the United States, with a distinguished faculty and a diverse community of students, staff, and alumni. The university is deeply devoted to fostering an inclusive environment that promotes creativity, intellectual curiosity, and global impact. It offers a vibrant campus life set against the backdrop of the scenic Pacific Northwest, combining natural beauty with cutting-edge research facilities and cultural resources.

UW employees take pride in their work that reaches beyond the campus to benefit the state, the nation, and the world at large. Staff and faculty members bring boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and an unwavering dedication to building stronger minds and contributing to a healthier world. In exchange, the university provides outstanding benefits, professional development opportunities, and a respectful workplace culture known for its diversity and intellectual excitement.

Housing and Food Services (HFS) at the University of Washington is a vital division supporting over 10,000 student residents and operating more than 40 dining locations across the campus. HFS employs over 1,200 dedicated staff and students who work together to enhance student life with excellent food services and a commitment to teamwork. The department focuses on culinary excellence, sustainable practices, and providing diverse and nutritious dining options for the university community.

This specific opportunity is for a Cook position within UW Housing & Food Services. The role is crucial in planning, preparing, assembling, and serving a variety of cuisines in multiple campus dining venues. Cooking takes place in visible environments where interactions with guests are often part of the daily routine, offering the chance to engage and provide quality service. This position requires versatility in culinary techniques including slicing, carving, roasting, steaming, frying, marinating, grilling, sautéing, and braising to prepare menu items.

The Cook will be required to manage daily production goals and maintain high standards in food safety and quality, ensuring compliance with Washington State health regulations. A key aspect of the role involves mentoring food service staff and assisting culinary leadership with menu planning and dietary accommodations. This 11.5-month position is full-time, with a pay range from $45,288 to $54,732 annually. The role offers the stability of a regular, union-position with WFSE Campuswide and includes a broad package of employee benefits.

Job Requirements

  • Possession of or eligible to obtain a Washington State Food Worker Card within two weeks of employment
  • One year of experience preparing and serving food and maintaining a clean work area
  • Ability to use production kitchen equipment including troubleshooting simple problems
  • Capable of preparing menu items from scratch using recipes and multiple cooking techniques
  • Comfortable working in continuous interaction with guests and staff
  • Ability to explain culinary and cooking techniques to entry-level staff
  • Proficient in reading speaking writing and following written English instructions
  • Maintain reliable attendance and punctuality
  • Successful criminal background check
  • Employment verification and reference check
  • Membership in the Washington Federation of State Employees Union

Job Qualifications

  • Possession of or eligible to obtain a Washington State Food Worker Card
  • One year of experience preparing and serving food and maintaining a clean work area
  • Ability to use production kitchen equipment and troubleshoot simple problems
  • Knowledge of various cooking techniques and ability to prepare menu items from scratch
  • Ability to interact effectively with guests and staff
  • Skill in explaining culinary techniques to entry-level staff
  • Ability to read speak write and follow instructions in English
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality
  • Experience with email menu management systems Microsoft Word and Excel preferred
  • Familiarity with menu management systems preferred

Job Duties

  • Prepare menu items including proteins using various methods such as slicing carving roasting steaming frying marinating grilling sautéing and braising
  • Marinate grill roast griddle and carve proteins steam vegetables and starches
  • Review menus and order lists and consult with culinary leadership on the day’s tasks
  • Perform display cooking to customer order plating food according to standards and answering questions about ingredients recipes and pricing
  • Organize work to meet daily production goals and service needs
  • Guide the work of food service staff
  • Monitor prepared foods for compliance with Washington State health code regulations including taking and recording food temperatures
  • Participate in cleaning the kitchen’s tables and equipment using sanitizing solutions
  • Ensure all foods are properly wrapped dated labeled and stored correctly
  • Ensure proper labeling and rotation of items in storage and work with other staff to maintain standards
  • Maintain records of food produced wasted and recipe adjustments
  • Inspect food service equipment for proper care use and report malfunctions
  • Ensure security and safety requirements are met and follow up on issues
  • Consult with culinary leadership to accommodate dietary restrictions
  • Perform related duties as requested

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


Job Location

Your Profile Is Visible To Hiring Managers Across OysterLink.

We'll match you with best jobs

Get job offers faster

Business woman
Business man
Search For More Opportunities:

How Candidates Get Hired Faster

Apply to 2–3 similar roles

Complete profile & get best matches

Check new opportunities daily

Woman chef
Man chef