FOOD SERVICE LEAD COOK

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center, located in Alabama, is a renowned institution dedicated to space exploration education and related scientific endeavors. It operates as a premier museum and educational facility that showcases the history and achievements of the U.S. space program. As an educational and cultural center, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center attracts visitors from around the globe, offering them a unique experience that combines hands-on learning with inspiring exhibits and programs. The center plays a vital role in fostering enthusiasm and knowledge about space exploration, technology, and science, making it an essential cornerstone of the region's cultural and educational landscape.

This job opening is for a Lead Cook position within the U.S. Space & Rocket Center's food services team. The role is a full-time opportunity, paying $20.00 an hour, and comes with comprehensive benefits including medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. Additionally, the position offers vacation and holiday pay, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan, underscoring the center’s commitment to employee well-being and long-term security.

The Lead Cook will be responsible for ensuring that meals served meet high-quality standards with consistency and excellence. This role requires a person who understands and adheres to all policies and procedures related to food preparation, hygiene, and workplace safety. Maintaining a professional and positive demeanor is critical, as is the ability to lead and motivate kitchen staff effectively. The Lead Cook will oversee kitchen cleanliness, health regulations, production accuracy, and assist with training personnel, fostering a professional work environment that values teamwork and high standards.

Key responsibilities include meeting or exceeding industry standards for food preparation, storage, and serving; preparing meals consistently according to recipes; managing cleaning assignments; ensuring food preparation for the next shift is complete; maintaining daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedules; and accurately recording production and waste data. The lead cook will also play a crucial role in inventory control, collaborating with the inventory manager for purchasing, organizing coolers, checking products against purchase orders, and ensuring that special diet requirements are met and communicated effectively.

This position requires a high level of supervision skills, as the Lead Cook will lead kitchen staff, providing guidance and setting an example in both work ethic and professionalism. The successful candidate will help create production sheets from catering contracts and make sure these are available in the correct locations. They will also assist the Executive Chef, Kitchen Manager, and Inventory Manager with various tasks as needed, including completing purchase orders.

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center values diversity and equal opportunity, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The work environment is dynamic and sometimes physically demanding, requiring abilities such as standing for extended periods, lifting up to 40 pounds, and navigating stairs. However, the position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to an iconic institution while developing skills in culinary management, team leadership, and inventory control.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States, hold a high school diploma or GED, with further education up to two years of college preferred or relevant certifications considered assets. Experience in managing a full-service or institutional kitchen for at least two years is required. Strong communication skills, knowledge of food preparation protocols, sanitation standards, and inventory systems are essential for success in this role. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center ensures a supportive workplace that emphasizes honesty, ethics, promptness, attendance, and professional conduct, aligning with its status as a respected educational institution and employer.