Line Cook (Hotel Job)

Kirkwood Community College is a well-established educational institution located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, committed to providing high-quality education and hands-on training in various disciplines. One of its notable divisions is the Kirkwood Center for Hospitality Excellence, which aims to lead the world in educating and preparing outstanding hospitality professionals who can make a significant impact in the global community. The college prides itself on being the best place to learn, recruit, and stay, achieved through a balanced focus on teaching, developing, and serving within the hospitality industry.

The Hotel at Kirkwood Center serves as a dynamic and immersive learning environment where students gain practical experience in hospitality operations. This establishment combines fine dining and banquet services, providing a professional setting that supports student growth and industry readiness. The role of Cook II in this context is a vital position that supports both the culinary operations and the educational mission of the hospitality program.

As a Cook II at The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, the successful candidate will be responsible for preparing, seasoning, and cooking a variety of foods including soups, meats, vegetables, and desserts for both the restaurant and banquet/event services. This role is not only about food preparation but also encompasses serving as a trainer to supervise and guide students in learning experiences across the hotel, the Kirkwood Center for Hospitality Arts, and the Kirkwood Center for Continuing Education.

The position is full-time and hourly, with a salary range of $15.83 to $17.28 per hour and is based in Cedar Rapids, IA. Weekend availability is essential, reflecting the operational needs of a hospitality environment that runs continually. The Cook II must demonstrate a strong commitment to health and safety standards, ensuring all food preparation and serving areas meet safe and sanitary food-handling practices. Additionally, the role requires the flexibility to assist or substitute for other cooks during busy periods or emergencies to maintain smooth operations.

This role embraces core competencies such as advocating for continual improvement, collaborating with mutual accountability, championing excellent service in a welcoming and inclusive environment, persevering toward excellence despite challenges, and leading positively regardless of title. The physical demands of the job require the ability to stand for 5-6 hours daily and perform various movements such as squatting, reaching, bending, climbing, and lifting up to 50 pounds.

Kirkwood Community College strongly supports diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates to welcome and nurture people from all backgrounds and perspectives. The college also emphasizes equal opportunity employment practices and is committed to non-discrimination in programs, activities, or employment based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, religion, or family status.

This position offers a rewarding opportunity to develop culinary skills while actively contributing to the training of future hospitality professionals. It is suited for individuals with a high school diploma and some kitchen line or prep experience, with preferences given to candidates holding a post-high school degree or having two years of full-time hospitality experience. Overall, the Cook II role at Kirkwood is an excellent career opportunity for someone passionate about culinary arts and education, looking to work in a supportive and evolving environment where they can make a tangible difference.