Experienced Cook (Chef Assistant)

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
Hourly
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Compensation

Hourly
Exact $26.50
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Employee Discounts
Training and Development
Paid holidays

Job Description

Universal Orlando Resort is a world-renowned entertainment and hospitality company that offers an immersive and thrilling experience to millions of visitors every year. Known for its innovative theme parks, CityWalk entertainment complex, and a wide range of dining and shopping options, Universal Orlando is dedicated to creating memorable moments through exceptional service and quality offerings. The resort employs a diverse and talented team committed to delivering magical guest experiences while upholding the highest standards of safety, cleanliness, and professionalism.

The role of Chef Assistant within Universal Orlando Resort is essential to supporting the Food Service Units located throughout the theme parks and CityWalk. This position focuses primarily on the preparation and cooking of food items in compliance with established recipes, portion specifications, and quality standards. The Chef Assistant plays an integral part in maintaining the operational effectiveness and efficiency of the kitchens by ensuring proper inventory management, minimal waste, and adherence to food safety protocols such as the State of Florida's HACCP program. At a starting rate of $26.50 per hour, the Chef Assistant will contribute significantly to the guest experience by ensuring that all food products meet Universal Orlando's strict quality and presentation standards.

Beyond basic cooking duties, the Chef Assistant is responsible for ordering supplies and managing inventory according to established par levels while projecting staffing needs. They receive inventory shipments and verify the availability of materials critical to daily operations. Ensuring cost control through quarterly updates of control cards, inventory packages, and portioning tools is another key responsibility, along with documenting daily product spoilage and analyzing waste to recommend efficiency improvements. This role also involves supervising cooks and production workers, monitoring break times, and providing training on kitchen equipment use and food preparation processes.

The Chef Assistant must be proactive in following safety and environmental health policies and contribute to the team's ongoing compliance with Universal Orlando’s safety standards. The role requires someone with at least two to three years of high-volume cooking experience, particularly as a Senior or Line Cook, who is knowledgeable about cooking processes and ready to step into a leadership position within a dynamic kitchen environment. Preferred candidates will have a high school diploma or GED and some formal culinary training such as completion of a Chef’s apprentice program.

Job Requirements

  • High school degree or GED preferred
  • two to three years of high-volume experience as Senior Cook or Line Cook required
  • knowledge of cooking processes or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • ability to follow established safety and food handling procedures
  • capability to manage inventory and costs
  • effective communication and teamwork skills

Job Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • completion of Chef’s apprentice or equivalent preferred
  • two to three years of high-volume cooking experience as Senior Cook or Line Cook required
  • knowledge of cooking processes
  • ability to train and supervise kitchen staff
  • strong organizational skills
  • ability to follow safety and sanitation standards

Job Duties

  • Prepare and cook food items in accordance with established recipes and portion specifications
  • order supplies based on par levels and staffing projections
  • receive and inventory supplies ensuring availability of materials
  • maintain cost control by updating control cards and inventory packages quarterly
  • document and report product spoilage daily
  • analyze waste and suggest efficiency improvements
  • ensure food quality and presentation meet Universal Orlando standards
  • comply with the State of Florida’s HACCP program
  • enforce safety and environmental health practices
  • supervise and provide work direction to cooks and production workers
  • monitor staff breaks
  • train production workers on kitchen equipment and food preparation
  • participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities as per Universal Orlando policies
  • perform other duties as assigned

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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