Cook, Senior

St Petersburg, FL, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Part-time

Hourly

Compensation

Hourly

Exact $17.25

Work Schedule

Weekend Shifts

Night Shifts

Benefits

free park admission

Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends

Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.

Scholarship Opportunities

Exclusive employee events and giveaways

Job Description

Busch Gardens is a world-renowned theme park known for its thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and exceptional guest experiences. As a premier amusement destination, Busch Gardens attracts millions of visitors annually, offering a blend of excitement, adventure, and entertainment for families and guests of all ages. The park’s commitment to creating joyful and memorable experiences extends beyond its rides and shows; it is also reflected in its vibrant and positive workplace culture. Working at Busch Gardens means being part of a dedicated team that values enthusiasm, dependability, and a commitment to excellence in guest service. The company provides a dynamic work environment where employees can thrive, grow professionally, and contribute to the happiness of park visitors from around the globe.

This particular role at Busch Gardens offers an exciting opportunity to join the culinary team as a key player in the preparation and delivery of food services for the park and its special events. The position offers a competitive compensation rate of $17.25 per hour and is eligible for the tipped pool program, making it rewarding both financially and professionally. The chosen candidate will be entrusted with a variety of culinary responsibilities, including managing food production for special events, ensuring quality control, and helping lead team operations when senior management is unavailable. This role demands not only culinary skills but also strong organizational abilities, leadership potential, and a positive, energetic attitude that aligns with Busch Gardens’ guest-focused ethos.

As part of the culinary team, the individual will be responsible for coordinating menu item production, adjusting food quantities based on attendance, and representing the company with enthusiasm and professionalism. The role often requires multitasking in a fast-paced environment, maintaining food safety standards, and interacting positively with guests and coworkers alike. This position also emphasizes physical stamina, as it involves standing for extended periods and handling tasks in various weather conditions. Overall, the role is ideal for someone passionate about food preparation, committed to excellent customer service, and eager to contribute to a thrilling and fun workplace environment.

Job Requirements

Two years related experience and/or training or equivalent combination of education and experience
strong written/verbal communication skills
strong basic math skills
ability to lift/move up to 55 pounds
ability to stand for prolonged periods in hot and/or cold environments
ability to regularly use hands and fingers, reach with hands and arms, handle, feel, stoop, crawl or kneel
ability to handle multiple tasks and work in a fast-paced environment
ability to work indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions
ability to interact positively with diverse guests and coworkers, including individuals with special needs
successful completion of relevant food handler exams
high school diploma or equivalent preferred
culinary certificate preferred
resume submission
availability for up to 28 hours per week including weekends, holidays, early mornings, late evenings, and night shifts

Job Qualifications

Must have two years related experience and/or training
must have strong written/verbal communication skills
must have strong basic math skills
must be able to lift/move up to 55 pounds
must be able to stand for prolonged periods of time in hot and/or cold environments
must regularly use hands and fingers, reach with hands and arms, handle, feel, stoop, crawl or kneel
must be able to handle multiple tasks and work in a fast-paced environment
must be able to work indoors and in outside weather conditions (i.e., sunny, wet and/or humid conditions)
must be able to positively interact with park guests and coworkers of all ages, different ethnic/cultural backgrounds and/or language, and individuals with special needs
must be able to successfully pass relevant food handler exams
high school diploma or equivalent preferred
culinary certificate preferred
resume required
availability to include up to 28 hours per week, 3-4 days a week to include weekends, holidays, early mornings, late evenings, and night shifts

Job Duties

Coordinate production of menu items for special events
adjust food quantity to accommodate park guest attendance
enthusiastically represent the company by displaying a positive attitude, maintaining a high level of energy and commitment to quality throughout all aspects of the job
assist in leading the team in daily operations, as well as special events, whenever head chef or other management as assigned are not present
read menu to estimate food requirements and order food from supplier or procure food from storage
oversee delivery and coordination of food delivery to event sites
adjust thermostat controls to regulate temperature of ovens, broilers, grills, roasters and steam kettles
measure and mix ingredients according to recipe to prepare quantity of foods for special events
bake, roast, broil and steam meats, fish, vegetables and other foods
add seasoning to foods during mixing or cooking
observe and test foods being cooked by tasting, smelling
determine if item is cooked within standards
portion food on serving plates, add gravies, sauces and garnishes to fulfill orders
ensure excellent customer service by responding to customer requirements, expectations and needs
other duties as assigned