Lead Cook

Charlotte, NC, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $15.75 - $20.00

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee Discounts

Training and development programs

flexible scheduling

Job Description

Aramark is a global leader in food services, facilities management, and uniform services, proudly serving millions of guests daily across 15 countries worldwide. As a company rooted in service and united by a strong purpose, Aramark aims to make a positive impact not only for its clients and customers but also for its employees, communities, and the environment. The company emphasizes opportunities for growth and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring every employee enjoys equal employment opportunities irrespective of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic.

The Lead Cook role at Aramark is a pivotal position within the food services team responsible for preparing and cooking food following standardized recipes and production guidelines while maintaining stringent food safety, handling, and sanitation procedures. This role demands skillful handling of various kitchen equipment like grills, fryers, ovens, and broilers, as well as safety awareness, including proper knife and utensil use. The Lead Cook is also entrusted with supervisory responsibilities such as scheduling, delegating tasks, training staff on various culinary and safety methods, and ensuring that all food preparation meets quality and safety standards.

This position involves diverse cooking methods including baking, roasting, broiling, steaming, and meticulous food preparation such as measuring, weighing, chopping, and garnishing ingredients to ensure presentation excellence. Moreover, the Lead Cook is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and sanitation of work areas and equipment while fostering a positive atmosphere for both co-workers and customers through excellent customer service.

Working as a Lead Cook in Aramark not only requires culinary expertise but also leadership skills to guide and develop team members effectively. The role may vary by location depending on client requirements and business needs, indicating a dynamic and adaptable work environment. Employees in this position should be prepared for some physical demands including lifting, bending, and prolonged standing, and may need to wear uniforms or personal protective equipment as required.

Aramark offers a supportive work culture where continuous skill development and commitment to job excellence are highly valued. Employees can expect thoughtful training and guidance, opportunities to gain knowledge in food safety certifications, and the ability to work independently with delegated responsibilities handled confidently. This role offers a chance to take on a leadership position within a renowned food services company that champions a culture of respect, professionalism, and inclusivity.

Joining Aramark as a Lead Cook means contributing to a large organization focused on sustainability and community impact, all while building your professional culinary career. With strong leadership expectations paired with comprehensive training, this position supports both personal and professional growth in a rewarding environment. For those passionate about the food industry and effective team management, this role presents an excellent opportunity to expand your skills and work in a respected global company.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
previous experience as a cook or in a supervisory role
food safety certification
ability to work independently and as part of a team
effective communication skills
physical ability to perform job duties including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods
willingness to wear uniforms and personal protective equipment as required

Job Qualifications

Previous supervisor experience in a related role preferred
experience as a cook or related role required
ability to work independently with limited supervision required
proven knowledge of the basic principles of food preparation, various cooking methods, and food safety regulations such as proper food handling, sanitation, and storage
food safety certification required
demonstrates basic math and counting skills
demonstrates effective interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal

Job Duties

Schedules and assigns daily work activities to staff and supervises the completion of tasks
trains and guides staff on job duties, standard food safety and sanitation procedures, cooking methods, etc.
cooks and prepares food following production guidelines and standardized recipes
sets up workstation with all needed ingredients and equipment
prepares ingredients by measuring, weighing, mixing, chopping, trimming, and peeling food items
safely uses all food utensils including knives
operates equipment such as ovens, stoves, slicers, mixers, etc.
bakes, roasts, broils, steams, and uses a variety of cooking methods on meats, vegetables, and other foods
arranges, garnishes, and portions food following established guidelines
properly stores food by following food safety policies and procedures
cleans and sanitizes work areas, equipment, and utensils
maintains excellent customer service with a positive attitude towards guests, customers, clients, co-workers, etc.
follows Aramark safety policies and procedures including food safety and sanitation
ensures security of company assets
produces and maintains work schedules and may prepare production records