Senior Cook - 138814

UC San Diego is a prestigious public research university renowned for its commitment to innovation, diversity, and excellence in education and service. Among its many dedicated departments, the Residential, Retail and Supply Chain Services (RRSS) team stands out as a dynamic and multifaceted unit. This department supports the university community by delivering outstanding services through its five essential units: Housing, Dining and Hospitality (HDH), Integrated Procure-to-Pay Solutions (IPPS), the UC San Diego Bookstore, Triton Print & Digital Media, and the Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC). RRSS is driven by a mission to foster an inclusive environment that resonates with the diverse needs of the campus population, including students, faculty, staff, and their families.

The Housing, Dining and Hospitality (HDH) unit is a self-funded service operation employing over 900 staff members and 1,000 student employees, managing an annual budget of approximately $250 million. HDH is responsible for providing exceptional housing and culinary services to more than 20,000 individuals connected to the university. Integral to HDH’s success is its commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusivity, making it a workplace that encourages the growth and well-being of its employees.

The Senior Cook position within this department plays a critical role in guaranteeing high-quality food preparation in a dining service or catering environment. Senior Cooks are entrusted with efficiently managing kitchen operations, which includes the upkeep and use of kitchen equipment, adhering rigorously to food safety and sanitation standards, and maintaining a professional appearance. They are key to coordinating food production, ensuring the superior presentation and control of food quality, and mentoring less experienced kitchen personnel in the preparation of complex recipes. This role requires a robust understanding of institutional food production, including knowledge of standardized recipes, food specifications from reputable sources like USDA, and proper quantities and measurements to maintain inventory accuracy and control costs.

Moreover, Senior Cooks at UC San Diego’s HDH unit need excellent interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with customers, colleagues, and university members. Their mathematical aptitude supports accurate interpretation of production data, statistical documentation, and reconciliation of invoices. This role also involves managing inventory logistics such as ordering, requisitioning, receiving, and storing supplies, all while maintaining adherence to quantity and quality controls.

Given the operational scope of HDH’s food service, Senior Cooks must demonstrate exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills to handle challenges like staff shortages and equipment malfunctions. They also oversee the opening and closing procedures of their units, ensuring security and adherence to operational policies.

Employment in this role is a career appointment averaging 70% effort, with a variable schedule including shifts during mornings, afternoons, weekends, and potential 10-hour workdays. The hourly pay ranges from $25.00 to $29.11, reflecting the candidate’s experience and capabilities. Employees are expected to comply with health regulations requiring specific uniforms, good hygiene, and punctual meal service attendance. This role also involves possible relocation within different work sites and compliance with mandatory reporting under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA).

UC San Diego is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to building a diverse workforce and providing fair treatment to all employees. The university maintains a smoke and tobacco-free environment and upholds policies addressing misconduct and workplace harassment to foster a safe and respectful atmosphere for all. Joining UC San Diego as a Senior Cook means becoming part of a community committed to culinary excellence, service quality, teamwork, and personal growth.