Lead Cook - University of Washington

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
Hourly
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Compensation

Hourly
Exact $28.00
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401(k) retirement plan
Paid Time Off
Parental leave
Disability Coverage

Job Description

Aramark is a leading global provider of food services, facilities management, and uniform services, proudly serving millions of guests each day across 15 countries. Known for its commitment to quality and service, Aramark delivers dining solutions that are innovative, diverse, and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client and community it serves. With a strong emphasis on promoting sustainability, social responsibility, and professional growth, Aramark fosters an inclusive work environment where employees are empowered to reach their full potential. The company’s mission is rooted in service and unity, focusing on making a positive impact for its employees, clients, and the planet. Aramark offers its team members competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits to support their well-being both inside and outside of work.

The Lead Cook role at Aramark is an essential position within the food service operations, typically found in settings such as corporate dining, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, or stadiums. This role involves cooking and preparing food according to standard recipes and production guidelines while strictly adhering to food safety, handling, and sanitation standards. A Lead Cook not only performs culinary duties but also takes on supervisory responsibilities, including scheduling staff, delegating tasks, and ensuring that the kitchen operates efficiently and safely. This position requires proficiency with various kitchen equipment such as grills, fryers, ovens, and broilers, and demands careful handling of utensils including knives.

At Aramark, compensation for this role is competitive, with the hourly rate set at $28.00, reflecting the company's commitment to recognizing the skills and expertise required. Beyond competitive pay, the Lead Cook benefits from a robust package of medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as work/life balance resources. The company also offers retirement plans such as 401(k), paid time off including parental leave, and disability coverage, which vary by location and eligibility. Aramark values diversity and complies with all applicable employment laws, including Fair Chance Ordinances to ensure equitable hiring practices.

The Lead Cook is expected to maintain high standards of cleanliness, food safety, and customer service, while training and mentoring kitchen staff. Shift scheduling and production record-keeping are also part of this multifaceted role. Work demands may include physical activities like lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required to ensure workplace safety. Working at Aramark offers the opportunity to develop culinary and leadership skills in an environment that encourages learning, teamwork, and professional advancement. Individuals who thrive in dynamic, fast-paced food service settings and who have prior supervisory experience will find this role rewarding and impactful.

Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • food safety certification required
  • previous cooking experience
  • previous supervisory experience preferred
  • ability to work independently
  • ability to handle physical demands including lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, and standing for extended periods
  • willingness to wear uniforms and personal protective equipment
  • effective communication skills
  • ability to follow safety and sanitation procedures

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

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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