COOK I

Michigan Dining is a prominent culinary service provider affiliated with the University of Michigan, serving the Ann Arbor Campus community. Known for its commitment to culinary excellence and high-quality food service, Michigan Dining operates across multiple dining locations including residence halls, student unions, and event venues. The department is nationally recognized for its top-notch culinary achievements, which underscores the dedication to delivering nutritious, delicious meals with great visual appeal. Its operations are managed with an emphasis on work-life balance and providing employees with consistent schedules, paid holidays, and growth opportunities in their culinary careers. Michigan Dining values flexibility, whether it be through its seniority-driven bidding system for work assignments or approval of seasonal leave requests, ensuring employment continuity and accommodating staff needs across varying seasons throughout the year.

The role of Cook I at Michigan Dining is a full-time, onsite position based in the South Quad of the Ann Arbor Campus. This position offers an hourly wage ranging between $20.42 and $21.62, translating into an annual salary range of approximately $42,473.60 to $44,969.60. The role is union-affiliated, covered under the collective bargaining agreement with the AFSCME union, which governs wages, benefits, and working conditions. As a Cook I, you will be an integral part of the culinary team responsible for food preparation following standardized recipes in either back-of-house production kitchens or front-of-house service stations. Your duties will involve preparing food items accurately to maintain nutritional standards, taste quality, and appealing presentation, while also ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations.

Effective communication with both culinary and management staff is critical to address production issues, sanitation, quality, and maintenance concerns on a daily basis. This dynamic work environment requires a flexible schedule that may include weekends and holidays, with work hours from Tuesday through Saturday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, leaving Sundays and Mondays off. Eligible employees also benefit from free bus fare on AATA bus routes, making commute easier and more sustainable.

Michigan Dining offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as matched retirement contributions that support employees’ long-term financial security. Additionally, there are ample opportunities for career advancement through continuing education, tuition assistance, and culinary certification programs. The position is designed for individuals experienced in food production, particularly those familiar with short-order or line cooking in similar environments. Physical demands include maintaining a static standing position for extended periods and regularly moving items weighing up to 50 pounds, reflecting the energetic nature of the culinary profession.

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and mutual respect, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Authorization to work in the U.S. is a precondition for employment, and visa sponsorship is not provided for this role.

By joining Michigan Dining as a Cook I, you will be part of a renowned dining service operation that not only values culinary excellence but also supports employees through fair wages, excellent benefits, flexible work arrangements, and growth opportunities in a supportive and inclusive environment. This position represents a unique opportunity for culinary professionals who seek a stable yet challenging role within a respected educational institution's dining program.