PM Cook

Highgate Hotels is a premier real estate investment and hospitality management company with a remarkable presence in the global market, managing assets worth over $15 billion. With a portfolio comprising more than 400 hotels spanning North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America, Highgate stands as a leader in the hospitality industry. Established over three decades ago, the company has consistently demonstrated innovation and excellence, navigating all phases of the property cycle from inception and development to recapitalization and disposition. Highgate’s portfolio is diverse and dynamic, including bespoke lifestyle brands, well-established legacy brands, and independent hotels and resorts, all distinguished by contemporary service offerings and digital sophistication.

The Westin Arlington Gateway, a property under the Highgate management umbrella, is a striking example of this excellence. Situated strategically just two blocks from the Ballston Metro Station, the hotel offers guests rapid access to Washington, D.C.’s renowned landmarks, shopping districts, and recreational destinations. Boasting 338 modern guestrooms including 14 suites, The Westin Arlington Gateway combines comfort with convenience, ensuring an exceptional guest experience.

Within this vibrant setting, the role of a Cook is integral to delivering the high-caliber dining experience that guests expect. The Cook is tasked with the preparation of food for multiple outlets including Restaurants, Room Service, the Employee Cafeteria, and Banquets. This role demands adherence to standardized recipes to ensure consistency and quality, as well as maintaining rigorous cleanliness and safety standards within the kitchen environment. Efficiency is key, as the Cook must adeptly manage food preparation to minimize waste while optimizing cost production ratios.

This position requires hands-on involvement in a variety of culinary duties such as organizing storage areas, prepping food prior to service, preparing buffet displays, and supporting banquet food stations. The Cook must possess a keen eye for quality, especially regarding fresh produce, fish, dairy, and meats, to maintain the high standards set forth by the hotel. Additionally, a strict "Clean As You Go" policy is maintained to ensure a sanitary and safe work environment, alongside compliance with all health department and company safety regulations.

The role also demands versatility and cooperation, requiring the ability to assist across various kitchen stations as needed. Understanding the operation and maintenance of kitchen equipment is essential, as is knowledge of fire safety and emergency procedures. The Cook must be prepared to work flexible hours that may be long and physically demanding, involving standing for extended periods and handling temperature extremes. A robust knowledge of cooking techniques including charbroiling, poaching, deep-frying, sautéing, braising, roasting, and par-cooking is vital to execute menu items flawlessly.

Overall, this position offers an exciting opportunity to work within a leading hospitality company known for excellence and innovation. Candidates will be welcomed into a professional environment where their skills in culinary arts and kitchen operations will contribute directly to memorable guest experiences and operational success.