Short Order Cook

Columbia University, a prestigious Ivy League institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and diverse community engagement, is seeking dedicated support staff to join their cafeteria team at John Jay Hall. As a university with a rich history and strong emphasis on providing quality services to students, faculty, and staff, Columbia University operates numerous dining facilities catering to a wide variety of tastes and preferences. This environment fosters a dynamic work culture where attention to detail, customer service, and safety are paramount.

The role being offered is that of a Support Staff member within the Dining Services team, specifically tasked with preparing and cooking various menu items that require only short preparation times. This position is classified under the Union category 1199 Cafeteria Workers and is a regular full-time role requiring 40 hours per week, predominantly scheduled from Sunday through Thursday, 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The salary range for this position is competitive, set between $21.34 to $23.29 per hour, with exact compensation determined by various factors such as experience, education, and training.

In this role, the individual will be responsible for taking food orders from customers and preparing those items promptly and accurately, ensuring high standards of quality and customer satisfaction. The job involves hands-on work with cooking equipment such as grills, steam tables, coffee brewing machines, and food display cases. Additionally, the candidate is expected to handle supply management tasks, including ordering, receiving, and storing food items responsibly while maintaining accurate records as required by the Dining Services guidelines.

Maintaining cleanliness and order in the assigned work area is critical to meet health and safety regulations. The employee will also be expected to follow safety standards strictly to prevent accidents or contamination. The role occasionally requires flexibility as the support staff may need to perform duties similar to those of a Pantry Worker when necessary, which may include additional preparation and stocking responsibilities.

This job demands a strong work ethic, attention to detail, the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, and excellent customer interaction skills. The ideal candidate would have a high school diploma or equivalent, with prior experience as a Pantry Worker viewed favorably but not mandatory. Columbia University encourages applications from qualified local residents and commits to equal employment opportunities for all, including individuals with disabilities and veterans.

Working at Columbia University offers the benefit of being part of a vibrant academic community where staff members play a crucial role in enhancing the overall campus experience through excellent dining services. Employees will gain valuable experience in food preparation, safety compliance, and customer service while enjoying the stability and benefits that come with a unionized, regular full-time position. This opportunity also provides the chance to develop professionally within one of the leading educational institutions in the world, contributing to a well-rounded and rewarding career path.