Lead Cook

The University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston is seeking a dedicated Lead Cook to join their culinary team. This part-time position offers an hourly pay range between $15.50 and $17.57 and requires flexible availability to cover varying shifts and hours. The university is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive and contribute meaningful service to their community. As part of Sodexo's global network, the school benefits from a company that values purposeful action and employee growth. Sodexo partners with the university to provide exceptional food services among their other integrated facilities management solutions. The Lead Cook will play a critical role in maintaining high standards of food preparation and customer satisfaction in this dynamic educational setting.

As a Lead Cook, you will be essential in preparing nutritious and appealing dishes across multiple meal periods including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and special catered events. Your expertise will ensure the accurate and efficient portioning, cooking, and presentation of both hot and cold food items while reducing food waste. You will follow recipes and product directions closely to maintain consistency and quality in every dish served. Additionally, you may be required to prepare food for a la carte services or operate a grill station, demonstrating culinary versatility. Beyond cooking responsibilities, you will support management by overseeing key daily operations and helping guide team members, ensuring smooth and effective food service delivery.

This role demands punctuality, reliability, and a positive team-oriented attitude. Successful candidates are adaptable, committed to safety, and dedicated to fostering a healthy workplace environment. A minimum of three to four years of relevant culinary experience is preferred, allowing the Lead Cook to confidently take on leadership tasks and contribute to process improvements. Sodexo’s philosophy emphasizes the impact of everyday actions and encourages employees to bring their true selves to work, contributing ideas and fostering diversity and inclusion.

Working at Sodexo and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts means benefiting from a flexible and supportive work environment that accommodates life’s important moments. Employees have access to ongoing training, development, and career advancement opportunities. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off, holidays, medical, dental, and vision coverage, tuition reimbursement, 401(k) plans, employee discount programs, and more. Depending on location, additional site-specific perks like free or subsidized meals, uniforms, safety shoes, and transportation support may be available. Sodexo values fairness, respect, and equal employment opportunities for all individuals regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, age, or other legally protected characteristics, making it a welcoming place to grow your culinary career.

In this role, you will take pride in contributing to the educational community by delivering excellent food service with a warm and engaging customer approach. Your leadership will help ensure food safety standards are met and that the kitchen environment remains efficient and compliant with health regulations. Ultimately, your passion for cooking and commitment to teamwork will enhance the dining experience for students, staff, and visitors, reinforcing the university's vibrant campus life.