Epcot International Food and Wine 2026 (ALUMNI only)

Orlando, FL, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Temporary

Hourly

Work Schedule

Flexible

Day Shifts

Weekend Shifts

Night Shifts

Benefits

weekly pay

Complimentary theme park admission

cast-exclusive discounts

Housing offered

Transportation offered

Job Description

The Walt Disney World Resort, located in Orlando, Florida, is a renowned global leader in entertainment and hospitality, attracting millions of visitors each year. As part of the Disney Parks, Experiences and Products division, it offers a unique blend of theme parks, resorts, and immersive experiences that create magical memories for guests from around the world. Disney is not only celebrated for its world-class attractions but also for providing exceptional career development opportunities through various programs, including the Disney Culinary Program. This program is designed to nurture talent, offering invaluable experience and professional growth in the culinary arts within one of the most celebrated entertainment environments worldwide.

The Disney Culinary Program at Walt Disney World Resort offers a distinct and exciting opportunity for passionate culinary students and former Disney Program participants to immerse themselves in the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. This annual event celebrates global cuisine through diverse marketplaces, cooking demonstrations, and special events that bring together culinary innovation and cultural exploration. Participants in the program gain hands-on experience working alongside Disney’s esteemed chefs, contributing to the creation of exceptional dining experiences in a fast-paced and guest-focused outdoor environment.

This role provides the chance to develop and hone a variety of culinary skills, including preparing and presenting international dishes, collaborating within dynamic culinary teams, and managing daily kitchen operations. Responsibilities include food preparation and cooking, plating, inventory management, sanitation, and ensuring compliance with Disney's rigorous food safety and guest service standards. The program is structured with fixed dates from August 3, 2026, to November 19, 2026, emphasizing commitment and availability to work flexible schedules that encompass days, nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime.

Compensation is competitive, with pay rates starting at $23.00 per hour for Culinary Cook 2 positions and $26.10 per hour for Culinary Cook 1 roles, reflecting the level of experience and expertise. Participants are encouraged to advance their culinary techniques in areas such as hot and cold preparation, sauce-making, sautéing, roasting, grilling, and vegetable cookery, alongside gaining proficiency in allergy awareness, menu planning, and seasonal ingredient use.

The Disney Culinary Program is not only about culinary excellence but also about representing Disney’s commitment to quality, safety, and exceptional guest experience. Participants directly engage with guests, sharing their passion for food and enhancing overall festival experiences. Additional benefits include weekly pay, complimentary theme park admission, cast-exclusive discounts, and the availability of housing and transportation, making it a comprehensive and supportive program for culinary students and former Cast Members eager to grow within the Disney family.

Job Requirements

Have successfully completed a previous Disney Program at either the Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, FL or at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, CA
Be at least 18 years old at application
Unrestricted work authorization in the U.S. includes all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and U.S. territories
Be fully available to work Sunday through Saturday including days, nights, holidays, weekends, and overtime
Be open to a starting pay rate of $23.00 per hour
Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs, standing, walking, climbing stairs, and performing duties indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions
Adhere to Disney Look and Food and Beverage appearance guidelines
Ability to prepare, cook, and taste food for quality and consistency
Completed a ServSafe, HACCP, or sanitation course prior to arrival
Skilled with knives and familiar with basic cuts
Strong communication skills and guest service commitment
Willingness to use personal protective equipment such as cut gloves, eyewear, and ear plugs

Job Qualifications

Successfully completed a previous Disney Program at Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort
Be at least 18 years old at application
Unrestricted work authorization in the U.S. including all states and territories
Fully available to work Sunday through Saturday including days, nights, holidays, weekends, and overtime
Ability to prepare, cook, and taste food for quality and consistency
Completed ServSafe, HACCP, or sanitation course prior to arrival
Skilled with knives and familiar with basic cuts
Strong communication skills and guest service commitment
Willingness to use personal protective equipment such as cut gloves, eyewear, and ear plugs
Enrolled in or completed a Culinary Arts program seeking a certificate or degree in the U.S.

Job Duties

Prepare and present a diverse array of international cuisines in festival marketplaces across EPCOT
Collaborate with culinary teams to deliver high-quality food in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment, outdoor environment
Assist in setting up and maintaining food stations, ensuring cleanliness, organization, and compliance with Disney safety standards
Interact with guests, sharing knowledge about food offerings and festival experiences
Support daily kitchen operations, including food prep, cooking, plating, inventory management, and sanitation tasks
Adhere to all Disney policies regarding food safety, allergen awareness, and guest service excellence