Lead Cook II

South Suburban Parks and Recreation (SSPRD) is a prominent public agency dedicated to fostering healthy living through stewardship of the environment, parks, trails, and open space by providing exceptional recreational services and programs. Serving a diverse community across Bow Mar, Columbine Valley, Centennial west of I-25, Littleton, Lone Tree, Sheridan, and unincorporated portions of Douglas, Jefferson, and Arapahoe counties, South Suburban operates an extensive network of facilities and amenities. These include four full-service recreation centers, golf courses, outdoor pools and restaurants, two ice centers, miniature golf courses, a botanical garden event center, a BMX track, a sports dome, batting cages, an entertainment center, a hotel, and a nature center. Moreover, the district maintains nearly 3,800 acres of developed and open space land, featuring 119 multi-purpose athletic fields, over 100 parks, nearly 80 miles of trails, 60 playgrounds, 56 tennis courts, and the 880-acre South Platte Park. The organization emphasizes community well-being, environmental stewardship, and high-quality recreational experiences for all ages and abilities.

The Lead Cook II position at South Suburban Parks and Recreation is a full-time, non-exempt role designed for experienced culinary professionals who are passionate about delivering excellence in food preparation within a fast-paced, high-volume environment. Under the direct supervision of the Chef, the Lead Cook II will be responsible for a variety of cooking and kitchen functions focused on meeting and exceeding the district's standards for food quality and presentation. The successful candidate will have a solid background in preparing, portioning, and cooking an array of food products including meats, seafood, poultry, and vegetables using diverse kitchen equipment such as broilers, ovens, grills, and fryers.

Key responsibilities include final plate preparation with careful attention to plating and garnishing, as well as oversight of kitchen operations during shifts. This role requires a strong commitment to food safety, sanitation, and compliance with all state, local, and district health regulations. Additionally, the Lead Cook II will assist in supervising other cooks, managing inventory, and supporting menu development to ensure profitable and appealing menu offerings. The position demands flexibility in working hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as well as the ability to work at various district locations when required.

South Suburban Parks and Recreation offers a competitive annual salary range of $46,184 to $53,183, based on qualifications, education, and experience. The district also provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote employee wellness and work-life balance. This includes medical, dental, and vision plans, disability and life insurance, flexible spending accounts, paid holidays and personal days, vacation and sick leave, a 401(a) retirement plan with employer contributions, training opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and numerous employee engagement activities. Employees also enjoy free daily admission to recreation centers and discounted rates on golf and food services at district facilities.

This position is ideal for culinary professionals eager to take on a leadership role within a community-focused, dynamic environment that values quality, safety, and team collaboration. Candidates must bring a blend of culinary expertise, leadership capability, organizational skills, and a motivated approach to contribute meaningfully to the department's success and the overall recreational mission of South Suburban Parks and Recreation.