Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Compensation
Hourly
Range $18.00 - $21.00
Work Schedule
Flexible
Weekend Shifts
Night Shifts
Benefits
competitive pay
Employee discount on meals
flexible scheduling
Opportunities for growth and advancement
401(k) with matching up to 4%
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off
Paid sick time
Referral program
Life insurance
accident insurance
critical illness insurance
Pet insurance
Career Development
Job Description
Max Downtown, located in the heart of Hartford, Connecticut, is a flagship restaurant operated by Max Hospitality, a distinguished company known for its commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry. Max Downtown stands as a staple of Hartford's fine dining scene, offering an elevated and sophisticated steakhouse experience that blends tradition with innovation. As part of the Max Hospitality team, employees benefit from a culture focused on professionalism, creativity, and a relentless dedication to providing world-class dining experiences. The restaurant is renowned for its refined menu, award-winning wine list, and extensive whiskey collection, catering to a sophisticated clientele who appreciates culinary precision, outstanding hospitality, and consistency in every dish. Max Hospitality as an employer is equally committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and growth-oriented environment where culinary professionals can thrive and develop their careers.
The Line Cook role at Max Downtown is a critical position within the culinary team, designed for individuals who excel in fast-paced, fine dining settings and take pride in precision and consistency. This role specifically targets candidates with open availability who can work nights and weekends, reflecting the dynamic and demanding nature of the restaurant's service hours. The selected candidate will specialize as a Sauté/Pasta Line Cook, responsible for preparing dishes that require skillful cooking techniques and attention to detail. The position demands a strong work ethic, excellent knife skills, and the ability to follow recipes and plating guidelines meticulously to maintain the high standards Max Downtown is known for.
Working at Max Downtown offers more than just a job; it presents an opportunity to be part of an award-winning culinary team where teamwork, collaboration, and mutual respect are core values. The role involves performing a variety of essential kitchen tasks, including prepping ingredients, executing dishes across multiple stations, maintaining cleanliness and sanitation, and supporting daily kitchen operations. Candidates will work closely with executive and sous chefs to ensure seamless service and consistent quality throughout each meal. This role is perfect for culinary professionals passionate about fine dining and eager to grow within an established hospitality group renowned for career development opportunities and employee support.
In addition to the rewarding work environment, Max Downtown offers a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive pay, employee meal discounts, flexible scheduling, and an excellent 401(k) plan with matching contributions. Health, dental, and vision insurance are available, along with paid time off and sick leave to support the well-being of employees. Further benefits include a referral program and various insurance plans such as life, accident, critical illness, and even pet insurance. Max Downtown is proud to promote diversity and inclusion in its workforce, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all qualified applicants regardless of background or status. This inclusive hiring approach extends to candidates with criminal backgrounds, encouraging a diverse range of applicants to join their team and contribute to the restaurant's ongoing success.
The Line Cook role at Max Downtown is a critical position within the culinary team, designed for individuals who excel in fast-paced, fine dining settings and take pride in precision and consistency. This role specifically targets candidates with open availability who can work nights and weekends, reflecting the dynamic and demanding nature of the restaurant's service hours. The selected candidate will specialize as a Sauté/Pasta Line Cook, responsible for preparing dishes that require skillful cooking techniques and attention to detail. The position demands a strong work ethic, excellent knife skills, and the ability to follow recipes and plating guidelines meticulously to maintain the high standards Max Downtown is known for.
Working at Max Downtown offers more than just a job; it presents an opportunity to be part of an award-winning culinary team where teamwork, collaboration, and mutual respect are core values. The role involves performing a variety of essential kitchen tasks, including prepping ingredients, executing dishes across multiple stations, maintaining cleanliness and sanitation, and supporting daily kitchen operations. Candidates will work closely with executive and sous chefs to ensure seamless service and consistent quality throughout each meal. This role is perfect for culinary professionals passionate about fine dining and eager to grow within an established hospitality group renowned for career development opportunities and employee support.
In addition to the rewarding work environment, Max Downtown offers a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive pay, employee meal discounts, flexible scheduling, and an excellent 401(k) plan with matching contributions. Health, dental, and vision insurance are available, along with paid time off and sick leave to support the well-being of employees. Further benefits include a referral program and various insurance plans such as life, accident, critical illness, and even pet insurance. Max Downtown is proud to promote diversity and inclusion in its workforce, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all qualified applicants regardless of background or status. This inclusive hiring approach extends to candidates with criminal backgrounds, encouraging a diverse range of applicants to join their team and contribute to the restaurant's ongoing success.
Job Requirements
- Proven experience as a line cook for 2-3 years strongly required
- Prior experience in fine-dining or upscale casual kitchen environment
- Ability to work nights and weekends
- Open availability
- Excellent knife skills
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation
- Strong work ethic and punctuality
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
Job Qualifications
- Proven experience as a line cook
- Prior work in a fine-dining or upscale casual kitchen environment strongly preferred
- Experience working all stations including grill, sauté, and pantry
- Familiarity with scratch kitchens and high-volume service
- Excellent knife skills and attention to detail
- Strong work ethic, punctuality, and reliability
- Ability to follow recipes, plating standards, and prep instructions with precision
- Works well under pressure and in a team-focused environment
- Knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and proper food handling procedures
Job Duties
- Execute prep and line work for lunch and dinner service across multiple stations
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment at all times
- Consistently follow recipes and plating specifications to maintain quality standards
- Work closely with the Executive Chef, Sous Chefs, and fellow cooks to ensure smooth and efficient service
- Assist with daily prep tasks such as chopping, butchering, and sauce preparation
- Ensure proper rotation and storage of ingredients to maintain freshness and minimize waste
- Support a culture of respect, collaboration, and professional growth in the kitchen
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
Your Profile Is Visible To Hiring Managers Across OysterLink.
We'll match you with best jobs
Get job offers faster


Search For More Opportunities:
How Candidates Get Hired Faster
Apply to 2–3 similar roles
Complete profile & get best matches
Check new opportunities daily

