Culinary Specialist II, University Club

Burbank, CA, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Hourly

Compensation

Hourly

Exact $27.22

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Day Shifts

Job Description

USC Hospitality, a key segment of USC Auxiliary Services, stands as a prominent employer and service provider on the University of Southern California campuses. This organization encompasses a diverse range of operations, from fine dining establishments to residential dining settings, catering to thousands of students, athletes, faculty, staff, and visitors. USC Hospitality is acclaimed for its innovation and commitment to quality, driven by talented executive chefs and directors who emphasize fresh, made-to-order meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The brand embodies a mission to provide nourishing, delicious meals in an environment that fosters community and social engagement, making it an essential part of life on the Trojan campuses.

USC Hospitality is currently seeking a Culinary Specialist II to join their expanding culinary team. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about culinary arts and dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service. The Culinary Specialist II will take charge of preparing food items ranging from soups, sauces, and salads to appetizers, entrees involving meat, game, seafood, poultry, and vegetables, as well as desserts for daily and special events. Emphasizing adherence to high standards, the specialist will maintain kitchen cleanliness, organization, and sanitation in compliance with health and safety regulations. They will also be responsible for efficient inventory management and minimizing food waste. Beyond the kitchen, the Culinary Specialist II is expected to engage directly with customers—addressing dietary needs and preferences—while supporting and guiding culinary staff.

The role requires mastery of both classical and modern cooking techniques including grilling, frying, roasting, poaching, blanching, and baking. Applicants must be ready to work in a fast-paced environment and demonstrate a commitment to the University’s core values. The position is compensated at an hourly rate of $27.22, reflecting the responsibilities, experience, and qualifications required. USC Hospitality promotes a strong team culture built on mutual respect, trust, and synergy, striving to offer not only outstanding food services but also an enriching workplace experience. Those selected will find themselves part of a dynamic team that balances tradition with innovative cuisine, all while fostering the spirit of the Trojan family.

Job Requirements

Minimum education specialized/technical training
minimum experience 3 years
culinary school certificate/diploma from a culinary arts and management nationally accredited school
at least six months of prior experience as a USC Culinary Specialist or equivalent culinary experience
successful completion of culinary skills test administered by the Executive Chef
knowledge of all kitchen equipment
knowledge of both restaurant and catering/special event cooking
demonstrated customer service experience
experience working in a fast paced environment
knowledge of classical and modern cooking techniques
ability to communicate effectively in English
knowledge of standard food handling and sanitation procedures
ability to lift up to 50 lbs
strong commitment to USC's unifying values
preferred education high school diploma
preferred associate's degree from a culinary arts and management school
preferred 4 years experience in restaurant, hotel, or high-volume banquet and catering environment
preferred ability to oversee student, temporary, and resource workers

Job Qualifications

Specialized or technical training
culinary school certificate or diploma from a culinary arts and management nationally accredited school
knowledge of all kitchen equipment, small or large scale
knowledge of restaurant and catering/special event cooking
demonstrated customer service experience
experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment
knowledge of classical cooking techniques and modern cookery
ability to effectively communicate in English
knowledge of standard food handling and sanitation procedures
ability to lift up to 50 lbs
strong commitment to USC's unifying values

Job Duties

Provide customer services to faculty, staff, students, and guests
ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction without unnecessarily referring customers to other staff members
maintain friendly, helpful demeanor
provide timely options for customers with specialty diets or dietary restrictions
measure, cut, and mix ingredients according to recipes or direction from unit chef/manager
cook and prepare food according to chef/manager's direction to specific quality, quantity, appearance, and temperature
ensure all food goods are utilized to maximum yield and reduce waste, spoilage, and pilferage
prepare food items for a la carte and special events according to recipe or instructions
ensure compliance and consistency with product, menu, and recipe specifications and production standards
prepare high quality soups, sauces, salads, appetizers, dressings, stews, desserts, and entrees daily for meal and service production
adhere to kitchen sanitation program and standard food handling and sanitation procedures
complete temperature and cooling logs as directed
maintain neat, orderly and sanitized work/cooking space
maintain knowledge of classical and modern cooking techniques
learn and execute new techniques for batch, prep, and a la carte menu items
comply with department service, health, sanitation standards, safety rules, and university regulations
store all food goods in approved containers labeled and dated
maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen, tools, and equipment
ensure proper use and maintenance of kitchen small wares and cooking equipment
provide guidance and direction to culinary and kitchen staff
attend all required culinary trainings
perform other related duties as assigned or requested