COOK I

Michigan Dining, a division of the University of Michigan, is a highly regarded food service provider known for its commitment to culinary excellence and exceptional dining experiences. Operating across multiple dining halls and catering services on the Ann Arbor campus, Michigan Dining emphasizes quality, nutrition, and customer satisfaction through a variety of food offerings that meet diverse dietary needs. Established with a mission to provide wholesome, flavorful meals, Michigan Dining also places a strong focus on sustainability, seasonal ingredients, and community engagement, making it a leader among university dining services nationwide.

The Cook I position within Michigan Dining offers an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about food preparation and culinary arts. This full-time, regular, nonexempt role is based onsite at the Ann Arbor campus, specifically within the MI Dining - South Quad Dining Hall department. The position provides a salary range from $42,473.60 to $44,969.60 annually, reflecting the organization's dedication to offering a living wage with consistent annual increases.

As a Cook I, employees will be instrumental in maintaining the high standards Michigan Dining is known for. The role requires preparing food items by following standardized recipes, ensuring each meal meets accurate nutritional standards, great taste, and appealing presentation. Cooks work in both back-of-house production kitchens and front-of-house stations, adapting to the needs of the dining environment. Communication with culinary and management staff is critical to promptly address production problems, sanitation, quality, health, safety, and maintenance issues.

The seasonal nature of some assignments, combined with a seniority-driven bidding process for work assignments, highlights the flexible and dynamic work environment. Employees may be asked to work in various departments throughout the year, ensuring consistent work opportunities for staff members desiring year-round employment. Furthermore, Michigan Dining is committed to supporting work-life balance by offering consistent schedules, paid holidays, and proximity to AATA bus routes along with free bus fare for employees.

This position demands resilience and the ability to maintain physical activity, including standing for extended periods and moving items weighing up to 50 pounds. Prior experience in food production, such as working as a short-order or line cook in a restaurant setting, is necessary to ensure familiarity with cooking methods and kitchen equipment.

Michigan Dining offers unmatched benefits encompassing health, dental, and vision insurance, along with matched retirement contributions. Employees have access to continued education and tuition assistance programs, culinary certifications, and professional growth opportunities, strengthening their careers in hospitality and food service. The institutional backing of the University of Michigan and collective bargaining agreement with the AFSCME union provides a supportive and equitable work environment.

This role is an excellent fit for candidates who value culinary craftsmanship, teamwork, and commitment to quality service within a prestigious university environment. Michigan Dining is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, fostering an inclusive workplace that values mutual respect and diversity, welcoming veterans and individuals with disabilities.